The topic of non-working Sundays in Montenegro has sparked significant political and social debates. On one hand, the government announces a reduction in working hours and supports non-working Sundays as a day for family and rest, while employers and some political actors emphasize economic costs and possible price increases. The Constitutional Court of Montenegro has initiated a procedure to assess the constitutionality of the ban on Sunday work in stores, further complicating the situation. Trade unions and employers have attempted to reach a compromise, but political tensions and disagreements in parliament slow down the adoption of final decisions. This topic is also viewed through the lens of European experiences and legislative practices, with public debate focusing on balancing workers’ rights and economic interests. The Constitutional Court faces capacity problems, and political games further complicate finding a lasting solution.
Political Perspectives:
Left: Left-leaning sources emphasize the importance of protecting workers’ rights to rest and family time, supporting the non-working Sunday as a social good. They highlight the benefits for workers’ quality of life and criticize the economic arguments used by employers as prioritizing profits over people. They also stress the need for social dialogue and fair compromises.
Center: Center-leaning sources present a balanced view, acknowledging both the social benefits of a non-working Sunday and the economic concerns of businesses. They report on the legal and constitutional challenges, the attempts at compromise between unions and employers, and the political stalemate in parliament. They tend to focus on the procedural aspects and the need for sustainable solutions.
Right: Right-leaning sources focus on the economic impact of the non-working Sunday, emphasizing the increased costs for businesses, potential price rises for consumers, and the risk of job losses. They often criticize the government for imposing restrictions on entrepreneurship and highlight the constitutional challenges as a defense of business freedoms. They may also question the effectiveness of the law and advocate for market-friendly policies.
