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About the publication
Author: dr Ivan Vukčević
Publishing year: 2026
The judicial system of Montenegro continues to be characterized by a gap between normative progress and its practical implementation. Although the granting of IBAR represents a positive signal in the process of European integration, it does not constitute evidence of substantive reform but rather reflects the fulfilment of technical criteria within a specific geopolitical context.
Key challenges remain present in three main areas: limited judicial independence due to political influence, insufficient efficiency of proceedings, particularly in cases of high-level corruption and organised crime, and weaknesses in the system of accountability and transparency.
Additional concerns arise from the frequent use of pre-trial detention, uneven transparency among judicial institutions, and the perception of selective justice, all of which directly undermine public trust. Furthermore, the material and infrastructural capacities of the judiciary remain inadequate and represent a limiting factor for its effective functioning.
Some of the priority measures include:
- strengthening judicial independence at the constitutional level;
- improving efficiency through better case management;
- clearly delineating and consistently enforcing accountability;
- limiting the use of pre-trial detention in line with international standards;
- enhancing transparency and institutional capacities.
The key challenge remains the transition from normative alignment to the consistent and impartial application of the law, as reforms will ultimately be measured by tangible results, which are currently lacking.