The number of complaints received by the Protector of Human Rights and Freedoms regarding the operations of public administration bodies surged by nearly 55 percent last year compared to 2023.

“This reflects an increasing trust in the Protector’s work, but it also underscores the necessity to enhance the efficiency and accountability of public administration entities. The majority of complaints pertain to the right to good administration and legal protection, indicating that citizens are looking for greater efficiency, transparency, accountability, and prompt action from public authorities,” states the Protector’s annual report.

Complaints directed to the Ombudsman included issues surrounding the right to peaceful enjoyment of property, health care access, the right to address and reply, access to courts, effective legal remedies, and environmental protection.

In 2024, the Protector received a total of 1,164 complaints, with 149 carried over from 2023, and resolutions were achieved in over 90 percent of cases.

“Complaints in the reporting period were related to: state bodies, state administration bodies, and other organizations (379), courts (85), the State Prosecutor’s Office (33), the Police Directorate (58), public services and various holders of public authority (218), local self-government bodies and local administration (62), as well as entities from other countries, legal entities, entrepreneurs, individuals, and others (180).”

Dilapidated Schools and Shortage of Medical Professionals

The Protector observes that daily challenges hinder children’s rights within the education, health, and social protection systems. These challenges are particularly pronounced for vulnerable groups of children.

“While no systematic and widespread violations of children’s rights have been reported, disparities in rights exercise do exist based on geographic location (region, rural areas)… Despite improvements in some areas of children’s rights protection, ongoing treatment inconsistencies and systemic issues remain,” the report notes.

The Protector emphasizes that the social and child protection systems lack vital services, as well as spatial and human resources for children across all regions of Montenegro. It’s highlighted that the child health care sector is understaffed at all levels and is often not incorporated into early intervention and developmental programs in a timely manner.

“Through engagement with children and discussions with school administrations, we highlight a troubling access to alcohol and cigarettes among children, despite existing legal prohibitions,” claims the Ombudsman’s office.

The report indicates a deficit of qualified professionals in the education system to support children with special needs, and schools frequently lack trained teachers and assistants, along with adequate infrastructure.

“Although various efforts were made during the reporting year, numerous issues persist within the education system: a lack of adequate facilities, dilapidated buildings, insufficient teaching staff, and a limited number of experts to provide psychological and pedagogical support to both students and teachers. There’s also an inadequate understanding among faculty regarding child rights and appropriate responses to student behavioral changes, alongside issues of student mistreatment and instances of violence among children,” the report elaborates.

Young people have reported a disconnection between skills gained through education and the demands of the labor market.

Widespread Discrimination and Concerns About Hate Speech

The Ombudsman’s report indicates that last year, the institution recorded 211 cases concerning discrimination protection, vulnerable groups, and gender equality, with 166 cases successfully concluded. In 80 cases, discrimination or another rights violation was confirmed, leading to 119 recommendations directed at various state bodies, as well as private sector entities.

The highest volume of complaints was noted in the area of labor and employment (105 cases).

“All authorities responsible for documenting reported instances of discrimination must clarify the basis for discrimination, including the personal characteristics of potential victims, and address hate speech and other violations,” the Protector stresses.

The prevalence of hate speech, particularly online, raises significant concern and necessitates a timely and adequate response through both self-regulatory mechanisms and legal actions addressing criminal and misdemeanor liability.

The Protector highlights that individuals with disabilities face discrimination across all life domains, with misguided approaches to disability undermining human rights, independence, and dignity. Thus, they advocate for the prompt adoption of a Law on a Single Body for Disability Expertise.

Furthermore, it is noted that Roma and Egyptians predominantly live in adverse social conditions, often in segregated, overcrowded, and substandard housing, with limited income sources that contribute to their social exclusion.

Finally, the Protector affirms that gender-based violence, including sexual violence against women, demands rigorous action, including effective prosecution and appropriate punishment for perpetrators, as well as the criminalization of femicide.

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