The main topic of the article concerns the state of LGBTI rights in Montenegro, with a particular focus on the European Commission’s recommendations and the urgent need for reforms in the rule of law. The Spektra Association highlights serious regression in this area, continuous lack of legislative progress, and rising anti-LGBTI rhetoric. The European Union has ended the practice of minimal reporting and clearly points out Montenegro’s failure to meet its obligations regarding LGBTI rights. There is a call for consistent application of existing legislation and adoption of new laws, especially concerning legal recognition of gender identity and life partnerships of same-sex couples. LGBTI rights must not be used for political calculations but should be an integral part of reforms and Montenegro’s European path.
Political Perspectives:
Left: Left-leaning sources emphasize the human rights aspect of LGBTI issues, highlighting the urgent need for Montenegro to comply with European standards and to protect minority rights. They criticize the government for stagnation and political obstruction, and stress the importance of legal recognition and anti-discrimination measures as fundamental to democracy and European integration.
Center: Center-leaning sources focus on the factual reporting of the European Commission’s findings and Montenegro’s obligations under EU accession processes. They present the issue as part of broader rule of law reforms and institutional responsibilities, emphasizing the need for legal and procedural compliance without strong ideological framing.
Right: Right-leaning sources tend to downplay or criticize the emphasis on LGBTI rights, sometimes framing it as political propaganda or external pressure. They may highlight traditional values and question the prioritization of LGBTI issues over other national concerns, often portraying the topic as divisive or as a challenge to societal norms.