The main topic of the article concerns the concerning decision of the Government of Montenegro not to include the draft law on self-determination in the legislative procedure, representing a regression in the field of LGBTI rights. The organization Spektra highlights the urgent need for Montenegrin institutions to recognize LGBTI rights as an integral part of reforms in the rule of law and European integration processes. The European Commission, in its non-paper, clearly expresses concern over the lack of progress in legislation and implementation of LGBTI rights, especially regarding legal recognition of gender identity and life partnerships of same-sex couples. The government, led by Prime Minister Spajić, is criticized for blocking and lacking the courage to advance human rights, while right-wing rhetoric continues to spread in public discourse. Montenegro, as a candidate country for EU membership, must demonstrate genuine commitment to European values of equality and non-discrimination.
Political Perspectives:
Left: Left-leaning sources emphasize the human rights aspect, criticizing the government for blocking progress on LGBTI rights and highlighting the importance of legal recognition of gender identity and same-sex partnerships as part of broader democratic and European integration reforms. They stress the urgency of institutional reforms and condemn the rise of anti-LGBTI rhetoric.
Center: Center-leaning sources tend to report the facts of the government’s decision and the European Commission’s concerns, focusing on the procedural aspects and the implications for Montenegro’s EU accession process. They present the issue as part of the broader rule of law and human rights reforms without strong ideological framing.
Right: Right-leaning sources often frame the issue as controversial, sometimes echoing or giving space to conservative or nationalist critiques of LGBTI rights legislation. They may portray the government’s hesitation as a reflection of societal values or as resistance to what they see as external pressure, and sometimes highlight the political tensions around the topic.
