“Young people ask: A conversation with Marta Kos and Maida Gorčević”

Will Montenegro close the negotiation chapters by the end of the year, what does that concretely mean, and what does the European Union actually offer to young people in Montenegro—these were some of the questions raised by high school students, university students, young European ambassadors, and interns of the Ministry of European Affairs during a discussion with Marta Kos, European Commissioner for Enlargement, and Maida Gorčević, Minister of European Affairs.

During the discussion, topics of greatest interest to young people were addressed—from education and mobility to employment and their role in decision-making. Special focus was placed on concrete opportunities already available to young people through programmes such as Erasmus+, the European Solidarity Corps, and other initiatives that encourage learning, exchange, and professional development. Minister Gorčević presented the Government’s plan for closing negotiation chapters and meeting EU criteria, explaining the basis for optimism that Montenegro can become the next EU member.

“The European Union is not only the future for young people, but a real opportunity they can live today—through education, exchange, and gaining experience across Europe. Young people from Montenegro are future citizens and residents of the European Union, which is why it is important that they are active, informed, and engaged. Our goal is to complete the negotiation process by the end of this year, while taking responsibility to create space for young people and empower them to be part of the changes ahead,” said Maida Gorčević.

During the discussion, Kos highlighted the importance of young people’s role in Montenegro’s European future and praised their enthusiasm and readiness to actively participate in decision-making and societal development.

“Montenegro is in the final stage of EU accession negotiations. These young people will be the first generation to enjoy all the opportunities that EU membership brings to Montenegro. I am impressed by how eager they are to get involved and shape the future of their country,” said Kos.

The open discussion demonstrated how ready young people are to ask questions, participate, and take an active role in the European integration process—as the generation that will live Montenegro’s European future.

The event was organized by the Ministry of European Affairs with the support of the EU4ME project, within the framework of the official visit of Commissioner Marta Kos to Montenegro.