In my childhood, I would leap over a rubber band and play in between two fires with my friends in Medovino. Cetinje, my love for you surpasses all. We used to draw with chalk near the Njegoš school, by Skadarska Street, the site of the January 1 massacre. Being a native of Cetinje, this tragedy has profoundly impacted me. I chose to leverage the knowledge and connections I gained in the US to assist my country so that such an event never occurs again.

This is what the former Minister of Public Administration, Digital Society, and Media, Tamara Srzentić, shared in an interview with “Vijesti.” She has recently revived a platform established in the US during the COVID-19 pandemic, which boasts a network of over 10,000 volunteers and experts from diverse fields, all connected to governments globally.

The network comprises 70 specialists from various fields both from abroad and Montenegro, eager to volunteer and assist Montenegro.

“Our aim is to collaborate with the mayor’s teams in Cetinje and various ministers alongside Montenegrin experts to formulate and execute a comprehensive plan that prioritizes gun violence as a pressing issue—similar to how it is regarded as a public health epidemic in the USA—based on American reform, and to devise a strategy for its mitigation.”

Gun Violence as a Public Health Epidemic

Srzentić elaborates about her experience working for California’s governor and with White House teams when gun violence was designated a public health epidemic following several mass shootings.

“We proactively tackled this issue through broad reforms—identifying specific causes and challenges through research, and taking preventive measures. Although this issue continues to challenge the US, I observe that a network of public policy makers has made significant strides in addressing this phenomenon—gun ownership and mass shootings, which are among the most significant socio-political challenges. I am convinced that Montenegro should pursue a similar path.”

Srzentić explains that the activated “Rebel Alliance” platform represents an open, global civic initiative aimed at reinforcing democratic principles, reforming public policies, and enhancing administrative capabilities at both state and local levels.

“Since our inception, we’ve established a network of over 10,000 volunteers, experts in various disciplines, whom we have linked with governments around the globe. This network has provided critical support during crises and has greatly aided in strengthening the capabilities of local communities.”

Following the January 1 tragedy, Srzentić called upon this network to assist Montenegro in tackling the issue of gun violence.

“With backing from influential figures in public health and gun violence in the United States (including five health ministers, California’s Secretary of Health, and leaders of global foundations), I initiated an effort to mobilize pro bono volunteers—experts in these domains. So far, around 50 experts have responded, along with another twenty from Montenegro and the region, including specialists in mental health, education, technology, and public policy analysis. Thus, we already have 70 experts ready to volunteer and aid Montenegro.”

A Required Registry of Violent Offenders

Montenegro currently lacks a registry of violent offenders, which must be established, alongside data necessary to understand the underlying causes of violence, she cautions. It is essential to collaborate, each in our own professional capacity, on numerous initiatives aimed at enhancing overall security.

According to her, support for effective reforms related to public health and firearms is essential, alongside implementing community violence prevention programs.

Srzentić underscores the necessity of increasing access to quality mental health support and crisis intervention services.

“If this issue concerns you, and you are worried about your safety and that of your family, believe you can contribute.” This invitation to join the volunteer network serves to inspire us to emulate the USA’s example and contribute positively to our country and society,” says Srzentić.

She articulates the need for healthcare workers, public health experts, therapists, public policy analysts, educators, statisticians, sociologists, project managers, public communications experts, economists, researchers focused on violence and its prevention, youth activists, security specialists, law enforcement, and emergency response professionals, as well as socially engaged artists.

“I believe that in the aftermath of the Cetinje tragedy, most citizens share this sentiment, and today marks an urgent call for us to respond to the challenges faced by all of Montenegrin society, offering our assistance to the best of our abilities.”

The Normal Life of Future Generations at Stake

“In recent weeks, thousands, driven by profound sorrow but also strong determination, have taken to the streets to honor the victims and combat the tragic events that have shaken our community to its core. However, we must acknowledge that memorials, protests, and our thoughts and prayers for the victims, survivors, and their families are not sufficient to prevent a recurrence of violence—be it in Montenegro, the region, or beyond. Such gestures will not relieve the profound sadness, pain, and devastation that our community has endured. Therefore, we must not let our efforts conclude here.”

She asserts that continuous, collective action is essential to ensure that Medovina is never repeated in Cetinje or Montenegro.

“It demands more—collective commitment from our entire nation to navigate the crisis of violence impacting Montenegro and its surroundings. The critical moment is now—our children’s safety and the normalcy of their lives and future generations are in peril. Violence is preventable—but we must rise to this moral and generational challenge. We will prove ourselves worthy through urgent, clear, and effective actions in response to this pivotal moment. We owe it to the victims and their families. Together, through proactive and sustained efforts, let us safeguard our communities and families, allowing our children to grow up in a world free from fear. For Vukan, for Jovan, for Mašan, for Marko.”

The Mental Health Crisis

Srzentić shares that alongside our fight against violence, we are grappling with another massive public health crisis—a mental health crisis.

“Two out of five adult citizens in the region experience some form of mental illness, and countless individuals remain undiagnosed due to lack of access to healthcare. Those suffering from mental illnesses are frequently unjustly labeled as threats to others, leading to their social isolation and marginalization. In reality, they are often at heightened risk of suicide or becoming victims of gun violence.”

Srzentić notes that the growing issues of loneliness and isolation, exacerbated by social networks, severely compound violence-related challenges.

“As social isolation exacerbates anxiety, depression, or suicidal tendencies, it becomes crucial to counteract loneliness by fostering communication and generating content that unites people, thereby fostering solidarity and empathy within the community, particularly towards its most vulnerable members. To protect the lives and wellbeing of citizens of Montenegro and the region—especially our children—we must respond decisively, clearly, and courageously to the difficult challenges we face.”

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