Digital Revolution and Public Administration Reforms in Montenegro: Paradise or Illusion?
Have you heard about the digital revolution in Montenegro? It seems the public administration has gotten a new shine, but is it really as great as they say? Maraš Dukaj, head of the Public Administration Directorate, boasts that they have left the hardest phase behind and made reforms “tailored to citizens.” But let’s dive a little deeper.
Depoliticization and Digitalization – Reality or Just Buzzwords?
Dukaj claims that the public administration is depoliticized, optimized, and rationalized, with key laws adopted in line with European standards. Digital transformation is in full swing – a new eGovernment portal, electronic services, even a cybersecurity agency is in the works. But do citizens really feel that the administration has become more accessible and efficient, or is this just another media story?
Cybersecurity – Montenegro as a Regional Hub?
It sounds impressive that Montenegro was named Partner of the Year in cybersecurity by Estonia, a global digital pioneer. The regional cybersecurity center WB3C has been established, and laws have been aligned with European standards, including the NIS 2 directive. But while they boast these achievements, citizens wonder – how ready is the state to protect critical infrastructure and privacy in the digital world? Is this just a PR move or real protection?
Decentralization and Local Self-Government – Democracy in Practice?
Dukaj emphasizes that decentralization is one of the key goals, and a new local self-government law has been prepared that brings democratic breakthroughs. However, will local authorities really gain more power and resources, or will it all remain on paper? The memorandum of cooperation with municipalities and the EU sounds nice, but is it enough to change reality in local communities?
Partnership and Trust – Myth or Reality?
According to Dukaj, the greatest success is mutual trust between institutions, international partners, the civil sector, and citizens. But in a country where political tensions still exist and criticism of public administration is common, how real is this trust? Is this just a nice PR story or is there truly an open exchange of ideas and experiences?
What Lies Ahead?
Although the results are praised and recognized beyond Montenegro’s borders, Dukaj warns that there is still much work to be done. The government needs to take the next step, while the administration has completed its part. But will things really change or will it all remain promises?
Conclusion
Digital transformation and public administration reforms in Montenegro sound like a fairy tale of modernization and efficiency. But as with any fairy tale, caution is needed – is this reality or just a story for the public? While portals and laws are praised, citizens are still waiting to feel real changes in everyday life.
What about you? Do you believe in this digital revolution or think it’s just another media story? Drop a comment, maybe together we’ll uncover what’s really going on behind the scenes!
