European Commission: Institutions to respect the law and abide by the Constitution

AUTHOR:M.J. GDNUS

The European Commission is aware of the latest developments in the Parliament of Montenegro and calls on all institutions to respect the law and abide by the Constitution.

This was stated by the spokesperson of the European Commission (EC) Guillaume Mercier for TVCG.

He also recalls that Commissioner Marta Koss, during her recent visit to Montenegro, offered the Commission's support in overcoming the impasse in reforms.

"We are aware of the latest developments in the Parliament of Montenegro. The EU's position is clear: we call on all institutions to respect the law and abide by the Constitution," Mercier stressed.

He emphasizes that this is crucial for Montenegro's path towards the EU.

"During last week's visit to Montenegro, Commissioner Koss encouraged all political forces to unite in order to overcome the current impasse and provide the broadest support for EU-related reforms. Commissioner Kos offered the Commission's support in seeking possible solutions in the interest of Montenegro and its accession to the EU, including the possibility of an assessment by an independent international body, such as the Venice Commission," the European Commission spokesperson stressed.

Brussels also called for harmonisation and amendment of legislation.

"The EU once again urges Montenegro to amend its current legal framework to introduce specific legislation on work-related rights, including retirement criteria, for judges and prosecutors, which should be in line with European standards and the existing recommendations of the Venice Commission," Mercier said.

The EC spokesperson also reiterated the EU's call on all authorities and political leaders to ensure the full functionality of the Constitutional Court as an essential guarantee of the rule of law and democratic stability, "including ensuring timely appointments based on merit, transparency and legal requirements."