The reforms Montenegro is implementing within the framework of European integration are bringing tangible benefits for citizens and entrepreneurs. In addition to improving digital services, strengthening the business environment, and increasing competitiveness, citizens can expect better services and a higher quality of life, according to Bojana Bošković, Head of Cluster 3, Ružica Mišković, Head of the Working Group for Chapter 10, and Maja Jokanović, Head of the Working Group for Chapter 20, during their appearance on RTCG’s morning program.
On December 16, at the Intergovernmental Conference in Brussels, Montenegro closed three negotiation chapters in the EU accession process, marking a significant step toward full membership. Bošković, Mišković, and Jokanović discussed key reforms, achievements so far, and plans for Montenegro’s further progress on its EU path.
Reflecting on the key strategic documents and laws adopted in this area, Ružica Mišković, Head of the Working Group for Chapter 10 – Information Society and Media, emphasized that numerous documents have been adopted not only to meet the EU’s final benchmarks but also to improve the public administration platform and enhance the quality of life for citizens.
“We have adopted the Digital Transformation Strategy, the Cybersecurity Strategy, the 5G Strategy, and developed the National Plan for the Development of Broadband Internet Networks. We have also adopted Montenegro’s first Media Strategy. All these measures aim to enhance the public administration platform and ensure a higher quality of life for citizens,” said Mišković.
She also highlighted the importance of the Law on Electronic Administration explaining that its implementation is crucial for eliminating administrative barriers and facilitating access to public services, which not only saves time but also significantly improves citizens’ daily lives.
Regarding industrial policy and entrepreneurship, Maja Jokanović, Head of the Working Group for Chapter 20 – Entrepreneurship and Industrial Policy, underscored the significance of adopting Montenegro’s new Industrial Policy for the time frame 2024–2028.
“The new industrial policy is based on four key strategic goals: improving the environment for green and digital transition, encouraging investments and financing models for long-term industrial competitiveness, fostering innovation based on the principles of smart and sustainable industrial development and aligning with and improving access to the broader EU market while strengthening regional economic cooperation,” she stated.
Speaking about the benefits for entrepreneurs and micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises, she pointed out that the adoption of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Strategy and the Women’s Entrepreneurship Strategy has further improved the business environment. Additionally, through legislative solutions such as the Law on Payment Deadlines, access to finance has been facilitated, and delays in commercial transactions have been eliminated.
Head of Cluster 3, Bojana Bošković highlighted the significance of competitiveness and inclusivity, explaining that these two processes are complementary.
“A more competitive economy means a broader range of products and services, which enables better integration of vulnerable groups into society. Moreover, a more successful economy ensures higher state budget revenues, which directly contribute to improving social services and increasing inclusivity,” Bošković emphasized.
She pointed out that the Cluster 3 is currently the most successful cluster in the negotiations, with four provisionally closed chapters.
“One of the key reasons for this success is the fact that all the heads of the working groups in this cluster are women,” Bošković concluded.