Montenegro has just taken a massive leap on its grueling road to the European Union – it closed Chapter 5, which deals with public procurement! Yes, you read that right! This is not just another bureaucratic formality but a sign that Montenegro is seriously tackling corruption and pushing for transparency in governance. Prime Minister Milojko Spajić led the Montenegrin delegation in Brussels, thanking the Polish presidency and EU member states for their support.
For those who don’t know, Chapter 5 is part of the “Fundamental Rights” cluster and is considered one of the toughest. By closing this chapter, Montenegro shows it is ready to adopt European standards in public procurement, meaning more efficient corruption prevention and more responsible management of public funds.
Prime Minister Spajić is optimistic and promises that Montenegro will close all negotiation chapters by the end of 2026 and become the 28th EU member. Is that possible? Well, judging by the pace of chapter closures and encouraging messages from Brussels, maybe it is!
Director of the European Commission’s Directorate for Enlargement Hert Jan Kopman congratulated Montenegro on its seriousness and dedication, highlighting that the electronic public procurement system has drastically reduced corruption risks. Poland, as the EU presidency, also expressed full support for Montenegro on this path.
But let’s be real – this is not the finish line. Montenegro still faces many challenges, including closing five more chapters by the end of the year and achieving internal readiness for two more. All this requires work, reforms, and, of course, patience.
Why does this matter? Because transparent public procurement means better schools, hospitals, and infrastructure for citizens. It means less corruption and more trust in institutions. It means Montenegro not only wants to join the EU but wants to be a country where rules and rights are respected.
So, while some might think negotiations are just boring bureaucracy, this is actually a fight for the country’s future. And if you have something to say about it, whether skeptical or hopeful, feel free to drop a comment below. Who knows, maybe your word will spark the next big conversation!
Meanwhile, let’s watch how Montenegro marches towards the EU – and whether it will really become the 28th member by 2026. Be there to see history in the making!
