EU Accession Agreement for Montenegro: Final Signal or Just Another Empty Promise?
Is Montenegro finally on the brink of joining the European Union, or is this just another political game? Former State Secretary for European Affairs Jovana Marović sheds light on this dilemma and doesn’t hold back her criticism.
Another Step, But Far From the Goal
Marović points out that Montenegro has made another step towards the EU this year, but the results are below expectations. The temporary closure of Chapter 5, concerning public procurement, and the implementation of reforms are positive moves, but far from what is needed for the final phase of negotiations. She warns that the slowdown of reforms is a real mistake and that the “pat on the back season” is over.
Four Key Conditions for the Accession Agreement
Marović states that Montenegro must fulfill four key conditions: a series of final convictions for high-level corruption, transparent and meritocratic selection of judges, application of legislation in the areas of media freedom and elections, and full alignment with the EU’s common foreign and security policy. The fulfillment of these conditions should be confirmed by an independent mission of experts, not political assessments.
Political Will and Plans B and C
Although there is declarative support for integration, the political will for reforms is weak, and some actors even support alternatives to the EU or slow down reforms. Marović warns that the government must have plans B and C if it does not close all chapters by the end of next year. Plan B involves preparing for a failure scenario, while Plan C means focusing on internal consolidation and reforms, waiting for the EU to be ready.
When and How?
According to Marović, the EU should issue a political declaration by the end of the year committing to concluding the accession agreement with Montenegro, which would be a strong signal that integration is not an endless process but a concrete goal. However, everything depends on real progress and political responsibility in Montenegro.
Conclusion: Integration as a Compass, Not a Goal
Marović concludes that EU integration must remain a reform compass, even when the political calendar or EU fluctuations do not favor Montenegro. It is necessary to unblock the judiciary, fill key positions based on competence rather than party deals, and define a clearer reform calendar with deadlines and responsibilities.
In short, Montenegro is at a crossroads: either seriously commit to reforms and get the accession agreement or remain trapped in political games and uncertainty. What do you think? Is this the final signal or just another empty promise? Drop a comment and let’s see who’s optimistic and who’s skeptical!
