The European integration of Montenegro is a long-term and comprehensive process that takes place not only at the national level but also at the local level. Municipalities, as institutions closest to citizens, play a crucial role in bringing European values and standards into the everyday lives of communities. The new Guide on the Role of Municipalities in the European Integration of Montenegro, authored by Dr. Nenad Koprivica and developed within the project “EU for Municipalities– Strengthening Local Communities in the European Integration of Montenegro”, provides practical tools, guidance, and inspiration for all municipalities that wish to be active participants in this process.
The Guide offers an overview of the most important European policies and chapters relevant to local governments – from regional development and environmental protection to agriculture, social policy, employment, and fisheries. Through clear checklists, recommendations, and examples of good practice, municipalities receive support to strengthen their capacities and become more competitive in accessing EU funds. Of particular importance are the experiences of Croatia and Slovenia, which show how local administrations successfully navigated the transformation process during EU accession, as well as domestic examples of successful projects.
In addition, the Guide provides a range of practical resources – a calendar of key events, a list of contacts and links to relevant programs, documents, and institutions, as well as a glossary of EU terms. This ensures that local authorities have everything in one place for faster and more efficient planning of their activities.
The “Municipalities for the EU” project, funded by the European Union and implemented in cooperation with the Ministry of Public Administration and the Association of Municipalities of Montenegro, additionally provides training and mentoring for municipal staff. The project has also established an “EU i tačka” information corner in each municipality. This ensures that both municipalities and citizens have access to the knowledge and support needed to make European integration visible and beneficial in everyday life.
The Guide delivers a clear message: success in European integration depends on municipalities’ readiness to recognize opportunities, invest in knowledge, and build partnerships. The European Union is not an abstract goal but a concrete opportunity for our communities to become more modern, sustainable, and aligned with European values.
The Guide can be downloaded here.
More information is available at the “EU i tačka” info points in each municipality.
