Press release from the 119th Cabinet session

The Montenegrin Cabinet held its 119th session, chaired by Prime Minister Milojko Spajić. The Cabinet adopted the Draft Law on Court Experts. It was emphasised during the discussion that the drafting of this legislation was aimed at improving the existing regulatory framework governing the conditions for conducting expert assessments, the procedure for appointment and dismissal of court experts, the registration of legal entities authorised to perform expert assessments, as well as the rights and obligations of experts and other issues relevant to their work. The implementation of the 2016 Law on Court Experts revealed certain shortcomings, particularly regarding status-related issues and the determination of responsibility. The new law also provides for the establishment of a Chamber of Court Experts, with the aim of creating a professional, transparent, and accountable system of expert assessment that will contribute to the efficiency of the judiciary and the strengthening of the rule of law.

The Cabinet adopted the Draft Law on Amendments to the Law on Electronic Communications. The proposed amendments further align national legislation with relevant European Union regulations, particularly in the areas of roaming and electronic communications market regulation. This creates the legal framework for implementing the EU roaming acquis, in line with the European Union’s initiative to abolish roaming charges between Montenegro and EU Member States. Additionally, the law introduces provisions related to the management of the national internet domain and domain registration data, further aligning with Directive (EU) 2022/2555 on measures for a high common level of cybersecurity across the Union (NIS2 Directive). 

The Cabinet adopted the Information on Montenegro’s chairmanship of the Berlin Process in 2026. Montenegro assumed the 2026 chairmanship at a moment of particular importance for its international standing and its role as a frontrunner in EU accession negotiations. The chairmanship programme includes the organisation of more than 25 events throughout the year, including 12 ministerial meetings, culminating in the Leaders’ Summit planned for October 2026. Activities will be held across multiple locations in Montenegro, further promoting the country’s development potential and enhancing its international visibility. Montenegro’s long-standing commitment to regional cooperation was also highlighted, reflected in its invitation to all Western Balkan countries to contribute and host events within the framework of Montenegro’s chairmanship. The chairmanship represents a significant opportunity to strengthen Montenegro’s international position and confirm its role as a responsible and reliable regional partner. Through active and substantive leadership of the process, Montenegro has the opportunity to deliver tangible results in areas of direct importance to citizens, while further strengthening regional cooperation and the European perspective of the Western Balkans.

The Cabinet also adopted the Environmental Monitoring Programme for 2026, which represents a key instrument for the systematic monitoring of environmental conditions and quality. Monitoring is both a legal obligation and a strategic mechanism for protecting public health and natural resources, demonstrating Montenegro’s commitment to European standards and international obligations. The implementation of the Programme provides a basis for developing recommendations in environmental policy planning, as well as for defining measures aimed at reducing negative impacts. The implementation of these measures is expected to contribute to addressing identified issues and improving the overall state of the environment in Montenegro.