The European Union recommends that Montenegro accelerate progress on reforms, particularly in the areas of justice, freedom of expression, media freedom, the fight against corruption and organized crime, and public administration reform. This is stated in a draft document scheduled for approval at the EU General Affairs Council meeting on December 16, 2025, in Brussels, Radio Free Europe reports.
The European Union welcomes the progress achieved
The EU Council noted "significant progress"Montenegro has reached the milestone on its path to membership: all 33 negotiating chapters are open, with 12 temporarily closed. However, Brussels emphasizes that the country must expedite the implementation of the final criteria, particularly the key chapters on the rule of law—Chapters 23 and 24.
The fight against corruption remains a weak point
The draft document notes that the country's administrative capacity needs to be strengthened, and that the number of final judgments in high-level corruption cases remains "continued to be low." The EU expects Montenegro to improve its results in investigating and prosecuting high-level corruption, as well as cases related to organized crime.
Migration policy: progress, but full EU alignment required
Improvements in asylum policy and migration management are noted. However, the need for full alignment with the European Union's visa policy is emphasized.
Economic recommendations: reduce debt and increase transparency
On the economic front, the EU calls on Montenegro to continue reforms, reduce public debt, strengthen financial management and transparency in public institutions.
Context: The European Union aims for expansion by 2029
The European Commission's annual enlargement report confirms Brussels's serious intention to admit new members before the current Commission's mandate ends in 2029. The report, published on November 4, is the first since the new Commission took office. It assesses the progress (or lack thereof) of 10 candidate countries, including six Western Balkan states—Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Serbia, Albania, Kosovo, and North Macedonia—as well as Moldova, Ukraine, Georgia, and Turkey.
