Over a Thousand Ukrainians Seek Temporary Protection in Montenegro This Year
During the first half of this year, Ukrainian nationals submitted 1,228 applications for temporary protection in Montenegro, with 946 of these being approved.
This information is detailed in the Government II attachment to the European Commission Report on Montenegro for 2024. Covering the period from April 1 to September 1, 2024, it relates to Chapter 24 – Justice, Freedom, and Security. Montenegro has, as per established practice, informed the European Commission about its activities in this sector at least biannually within the framework of monitoring and evaluating the situation amid European integration efforts.
The report mentions that the relevant authorities are processing 282 applications for temporary protection.
“Additionally, during this period, accommodation has been provided for 106 individuals from Ukraine who hold foreigner status under temporary protection, aligning with Article 98 of the Law on International and Provisional Protection of Foreigners,” as noted in the Government Report.
Furthermore, in the first half of the year, temporary protection has been granted to 4,268 individuals from Ukraine who previously held foreigner status under temporary protection.
In response to the onset of Russian aggression, the Government of Montenegro approved temporary protection for individuals from Ukraine in March 2022, which was subsequently extended by an additional year, lasting until March 11, 2024.
On June 31, 2024, the Assembly adopted amendments to the International and Provisional Protection of Foreigners, as the status of foreigners under temporary protection in Montenegro had exhausted the legal avenues for extension beyond two years.
“The amendment of the Law aligns with the decisions of the Council of the European Union, aimed at meeting EU standards in the realm of international protection,” the Government Document states.