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A significant step forward in Montenegro’s EU accession journey was marked with the signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation between key national ministries, the Union of Municipalities of Montenegro, and representatives from all 25 local self-government units.
This milestone is part of the EU-funded project “Municipalities 4 EU – Empowering Local Communities in the EU Integration Process of Montenegro” (M4EU), aimed at strengthening local capacities for European integration.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, H.E. Johan Sattler, EU Ambassador to Montenegro, emphasized the crucial role of local self-governments in bringing European values and standards closer to citizens.
“Local self-governments are fundamentally important in bridging European standards with citizens’ daily lives. Montenegro’s success in joining the European Union will not only be measured by policy adoption at the national level but by how effectively these policies are implemented locally. This Memorandum is not just a framework for cooperation; it is a declaration of shared responsibility. The path to Europe is a collective effort, built on trust, partnership, and the recognition that every level of government has a crucial role in this process.”
The Memorandum underscores the importance of aligning local self-governments with EU policies and standards while also working to raise public awareness of the benefits of European integration.
Marash Dukaj, Minister of Public Administration, highlighted the importance of supporting local governments in adapting to EU requirements:
“Change is necessary, but so is support for local self-governments. Only teamwork can yield the desired results. The implementation of this Memorandum should strongly contribute to the decentralization of local self-governments, which is the best path to democratic progress—a goal we are all equally committed to.”
As part of the agreement, EU Corners will be established in every municipality, serving as dedicated spaces for information, education, and support regarding EU integration and funding opportunities.
With 70% of EU legislation applied at the local level, the role of municipalities in the integration process is more important than ever. Minister of European Affairs Maida Gorčević stressed the need for their active participation:
“Local self-governments are the first line of implementation for EU policies. It is our task to ensure they are fully engaged in planning and executing activities that lead to the adoption of European standards and values.”
Under the Memorandum, municipalities have committed to establishing European Integration Offices to drive local development, which will be responsible for:
- Preparing EU-funded project proposals
- Managing EU-funded initiatives
- Coordinating local activities related to the EU accession process
- Ensuring sufficient resources for their operations
Radoš Žugić, President of the Management Board of the Union of Municipalities of Montenegro, emphasized the importance of equipping municipalities with the necessary tools and expertise:
“Municipalities are on the front line of service delivery and the implementation of European standards in daily life. It is crucial that local self-governments have the knowledge, capacities, and tools necessary to adapt successfully to European legislation.”
The Secretary General of the Union of Municipalities of Montenegro, Mišela Manojlović, underscored the importance of increasing local absorption capacities for EU financial assistance:
“This initiative presents a valuable opportunity for municipalities to access and utilize EU funds more effectively. Strengthening their ability to absorb and manage these funds will result in more impactful projects that directly improve citizens’ lives.”
The M4EU project, funded by the European Union, aims to empower local self-governments to meet EU accession demands effectively. By building capacities, improving coordination, and fostering greater public awareness, the project supports Montenegro’s municipalities in becoming stronger, more connected, and better prepared to embrace a European future.
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