WORLD NEWS FOR MONTENEGRO DIASPORA
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AUTHOR: M.J. GDNUS
Members of the European Parliament have submitted over 230 amendments to the draft annual report on Montenegro's progress towards EU membership. Among these, concerns are raised about proposed laws, such as those regarding dual citizenship and foreign agents, while simultaneously calling for transparency in the operations of the Public Broadcasting Service (RTCG).
The amendments also stress the need for Montenegro to resolve its bilateral disputes with neighboring Croatia to facilitate its EU accession path.
One of the key amendments points out the vulnerability of media to political and foreign influence, with a particular emphasis on RTCG. It urges the Montenegrin government to ensure editorial, institutional, and financial independence for the public broadcaster, as well as the legality of appointing its leadership, with full respect for legally binding court decisions regarding RTCG.
By the end of April, MEPs have a deadline to reach an agreement on these amendments, which will then be voted on by the European Parliament's Foreign Affairs Committee.
Concerns Over Dual Citizenship Law
One amendment expresses specific concern that any changes to the Citizenship Law, particularly those allowing dual citizenship, could have serious and long-term implications for decision-making processes and national identity in the country.
"Montenegro, as a candidate country, should refrain from measures that could jeopardize the country’s strategic path to the EU or the security of the EU, including using its prerogatives to grant citizenship. Montenegro is encouraged to ensure that all new laws are fully aligned with EU legal standards and support fundamental rights," reads the amendment.
Another amendment targets this issue by requesting that Montenegrin authorities seek the EU’s opinion and coordinate with it on any procedures related to the dual citizenship law. It also stresses the importance of reaching a consensus between the ruling and opposition parties on this topic, which is crucial for the identity and independence of Montenegro.
Warning About Foreign Agents Law
A particularly concerning proposal is the Law on Foreign Agents in Montenegro, put forward by the "For the Future of Montenegro" coalition. Although this proposal has not yet been formally introduced, two amendments address it, highlighting that it is incompatible with the values and standards of the European Union and NATO.
“Such laws, which reflect restrictive measures seen in countries like Russia and Georgia, can undermine fundamental freedoms such as freedom of expression, association, and the functioning of a vibrant civil society. Montenegro is urged to ensure that its policies and legislation are fully aligned with EU law and international standards,” the amendments read.
Concerns About Support for Dodik’s Secessionist Ideas
In the midst of the political crisis in Bosnia and Herzegovina, sparked by actions from the President of the Republika Srpska, Milorad Dodik, some MEPs are emphasizing the need to respect the Dayton Agreement. They express concern that high-ranking Montenegrin officials support Dodik and his secessionist rhetoric.
“Statements from high-ranking Montenegrin officials in support of Milorad Dodik, the president of the Republika Srpska entity, who undermines the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina, are deeply troubling. Their participation in the Serb Assembly is also concerning,” one amendment states.
In a similar vein, another amendment addresses this issue with a precise message to the President of the Montenegrin Parliament, urging members of the ruling majority and government representatives to refrain from any activities that could jeopardize Montenegro's EU accession path and the country's sovereignty.
Condemnation of the Jasenovac Resolution and Call for Improved Relations with Croatia
One amendment condemns the adoption of the Montenegrin Parliament's resolution on Jasenovac, stating that it harms relations between Montenegro and Croatia. Another amendment expresses regret that Chapter 31 in the EU accession negotiations could not be closed by December 2024 and urges all parties involved to find solutions to open bilateral issues, prioritizing the future interests of the citizens of the Western Balkans.
It emphasizes the need to avoid using unresolved bilateral and regional disputes to block the accession process of candidate countries and calls on Montenegro to resolve its long-standing bilateral disputes in a constructive and neighborly manner.
Call to Respect Freedom of Expression and End the "Kamo Śutra?" Campaign
In amendment 153, MEPs call on the Montenegrin authorities to respect freedom of expression and notably urge officials to cease defamatory campaigns against the student group "Kamo Śutra?"
"Representatives of the authorities should stop persecuting journalists and ensure their safety, especially that of female journalists," the amendment concludes.
