According to Jelena Nedović, head of the Parliament of Montenegro’s delegation to the Parliamentary Assembly of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), resolving the conflict in Ukraine is vital not just for Ukraine itself but for the broader stability of Europe.

The OSCE Parliamentary Assembly recently wrapped up its 24th winter session in Vienna, where MPs including Nedović, Jevrosima Pejović, Amer Smailović, Momčilo Leković, and Jevto Eraković participated.

On the final working day, a joint session among three key committees took place, featuring around 70 parliamentarians engaging in a debate focused on “Key Challenges for European Security.”

Nedović noted in her remarks that in light of ongoing geopolitical tensions, shared security and stability depend on unity, strength, and strategic initiatives. She highlighted that the war in Ukraine poses a significant security challenge for Europe, calling for the establishment of peace as a prerequisite for initiating the recovery process.

Additionally, Nedović stressed Montenegro’s role as a stabilizing force in the Western Balkans and a reliable NATO partner. She referenced European Parliament President Roberta Mecola’s statement regarding Europe’s responsibility for its own security, advocating for increased engagement, funding, and collaboration to enhance defense capabilities.

“The challenges we face are intricate; however, through unity, dedication, and decisive actions, we can safeguard European security and uphold the values that unite us,” concluded Nedović, as reported by the Parliament.

During the debate, MP Jevrosima Pejović asserted that for smaller nations like Montenegro, security and democratic stability stem from taking charge of their futures. She emphasized that Montenegro is committed to enhancing its presence in multilateral frameworks such as NATO and the OSCE, viewing these institutions not as abstract ideals, but as essential foundations of our security.

“In the aftermath of World War II, the international community established multilateral institutions to tackle complex and sensitive issues, resulting in two key advantages: a set of rules and a clear code of conduct for international actors. This fostered predictability—one of the cornerstones of post-war international relations—without which global challenges could descend into chaos,” she concluded.

Following the joint session, the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly Ad Hoc Committee on Combating Terrorism convened, with MP Pejović in attendance. The meeting addressed the role of education and digital literacy in counteracting terrorism, violent extremism, and radicalization leading to terrorism. Discussions highlighted how extremists exploit online misinformation to provoke violence, disseminate conspiracy theories, and recruit supporters. The need to equip students with skills to critically assess online information was underscored.

Additionally, a gathering of the OSCE PA Silk Road Group took place, featuring the Montenegrin delegation. Head of the delegation, Nedović, discussed the upcoming Fifth Conference of the Group, themed “Connecting Continents: Promoting Sustainable Tourism, Clean Energy, and Ecological Balance for a Resilient Future,” which is slated to occur from May 5 to 7 in Budva, organized by the Parliament of Montenegro. Nedović emphasized that the conference will not only serve as a discussion platform but also represents a chance to deepen cooperation, explore innovative solutions, and strengthen the Group’s commitment to economic, environmental, and diplomatic advancement.

MP Jevto Eraković, Vice President of the Silk Road Group, shared insights about the conference agenda, noting that the gathering in Montenegro provides an opportunity to “reconnect, revive our mission, and reaffirm our dedication to the values that unite us.” He remarked that this will be the fifth significant conference for the group, and interestingly, the number five symbolizes adventure, transformation, and energy—an apt description for their collective aspirations.

“Our delegation also participated in a meeting of the OSCE PA countries of Southeast Europe, where they reviewed forthcoming activities and celebrated the success of the Second Interparliamentary Forum of Southeast European Delegations, which was hosted by the Parliament of Montenegro last September,” the parliament reported.

MP Jelena Nedović reflected on the conclusions drawn from last year’s forum, noting that participants acknowledged tourism as a vital sector for cultural, economic, and geographical connectivity. She stressed that leveraging rich human capital, natural resources, geographical advantages, and economic opportunities requires cooperation, creativity, and determination for efficient utilization. Nedović affirmed that fostering regional collaboration in Southeast Europe could bolster sustainable tourism development and promote greater regional integration through the unhindered movement of people and goods.

She further pointed out that collaborating in tourism offers a chance for collective action toward environmental protection, which is increasingly critical given the current global environmental challenges.

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