Montenegro’s Deputy Prime Minister Vows to Fight Crime, Advance EU Bid
In a speech celebrating Montenegro’s Independence Day, Deputy Prime Minister Aleksa Bečić outlined the nation’s commitment to combating corruption and organized crime. This determination is crucial as Montenegro aims for European Union membership by 2028, demonstrating a strong partnership with the United States.
Montenegro’s Path to EU Membership
Aleksa Bečić, Deputy Prime Minister of Montenegro, recently addressed the nation regarding its strategic direction. Montenegro’s ambition is to join the EU by 2028. This initiative is actively progressing under the current government’s mandate. Remarkably, Montenegro has opened all negotiation chapters, finalized six, and met benchmarks in key areas like the rule of law and security.
“Montenegro and the United States have been bound by over a century of friendship.”
—Aleksa Bečić, Deputy Prime Minister of Montenegro
The country’s dedication to the rule of law is evident through its alignment with EU foreign and security policies. Montenegro is considered the most advanced candidate, positioning it for imminent EU accession. The nation’s efforts have garnered international support, especially from its American allies.
Tackling Crime and Corruption
The cornerstone of Montenegro’s progress is its aggressive fight against organized crime and corruption. Deputy Prime Minister Bečić highlighted that the U.S. State Department recognized these efforts in late 2023. It awarded the “Champion of the Fight Against Corruption” award to Montenegro’s Chief Special Prosecutor. The police administration is conducting thorough vetting, examining the integrity of every officer.
Roughly 100 officers out of 3,500 have been suspended in recent months. Hundreds of additional checks and audits are underway. The aim is to ensure only honorable individuals wear the police badge. This commitment extends to all, regardless of past influence, ensuring the law is the ultimate authority. This year, the European Commission reported that Montenegro had made good progress in its fight against corruption and organized crime, particularly in high-profile cases (European Commission, 2024).
Historic Results and Future Goals
Cooperation between the security sector, prosecutors, and international partners has yielded significant results in combating crime. Over 2,000 prosecutions of organized crime members have occurred. This includes leaders and high-ranking members of drug cartels. Furthermore, economic crime results increased twelvefold. Historic seizures of weapons and ammunition and hundreds of arrests and suspensions highlight Montenegro’s determination.
Montenegro is transforming into a nation where the law has real power. The focus shifts from connections to actions. The law supersedes clan leadership. In a significant move, verdicts or indictments have been delivered against various high-ranking officials. This includes two presidents of the highest judicial institutions and the director of the National Security Agency.
The country is committed to peace and international stability. Montenegro contributes to NATO, modernizing its defense system. The construction of two patrol vessels in France will join the Navy, symbolizing the nation’s role in Adriatic security.
Only a state free from crime and with robust institutions can be a strong international partner. Montenegro aspires to achieve this. With the support of the United States, it aims to succeed. Bečić expressed gratitude for the support. He anticipates that their collaborative achievements will benefit both nations and their shared future.
