Montenegro and the European Dream: Public Procurement That Should Shine or Just Fade Away?
Have you ever thought public procurement could be exciting? Well, now it is! Montenegro has just closed one of the toughest chapters in its EU negotiations – Chapter 5 on public procurement. Jelena Jovetić, the general director at the Ministry of Finance and head of the working group, claims that tenders are now aligned with European standards – efficient, transparent, and competitive. But is it really so, or just another political fairy tale?
A Decade of Fighting for Transparency
After 13 years of negotiations, Montenegro managed to close this chapter earlier than some other countries. Jovetić thanked the team for a decade of work and emphasized that the public procurement system is fully reformed and digitized. The cost? Not mentioned, but we know digital transformation has become a symbol of transparency. Sounds great, right?
But Who Believes Fairy Tales?
The public remains skeptical. Is this “modernized” system truly resistant to corruption? Jovetić claims the anti-corruption framework is strengthened and public interest is better protected now. But how many times have we heard similar stories? Will Montenegro finally achieve its generational dream of EU membership or remain trapped in bureaucratic games?
Digitization and Transparency – Just Words?
The digital platform for public procurement is presented as revolutionary. But how accessible and useful is it really to citizens? Will every tender be under scrutiny, or will shady deals continue behind closed doors? These questions remain open.
The European Path – Light or Darkness?
Closing this chapter is a big step, but just one of many. Montenegro must continue reforms and show results, not just talk about them. The European Union is watching, but so are the citizens of Montenegro – and they are not naive.
Conclusion
Jelena Jovetić and her team have done a great job, but the real battle is just beginning. Will Montenegro truly become part of the European family or remain in the shadow of promises? Time will tell. What do you think? Is this real progress or just another political show? Drop a comment, let the voice of the people be heard!
