The North NGO Network has urged the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Police Directorate, the Customs Directorate, and the Bijelo Polje local government to urgently update the Dobrakovo Border Crossing Point (BP). They argue that its current state presents a negative impression to tourists visiting Montenegro.

According to them, the Dobrakovo border crossing, which connects Montenegro and Serbia, has long exhibited a troubling picture of neglect, poor management, and unacceptable official behavior towards citizens.

“Rather than serving as a welcoming entry point into the country that embodies hospitality and professionalism, this crossing has turned into a symbol of carelessness and unfriendliness, lacking even the most basic conditions for a dignified border crossing. Police officers, who are often the first impression travelers have of Montenegro, frequently display unkind and aggressive behavior. Shouting, irritability, and treating citizens as if they were in some forced labor situation are everyday occurrences at Dobrakovo. Such conduct is not only unacceptable but also detrimental to the nation’s reputation. This border crossing should not resemble a neglected area; it is a formal space that must reflect kindness and respect towards both domestic and foreign visitors,” stated Marija Šćepanović from the North NGO Network.

The organization also highlighted that the appearance of the Border Crossing exacerbates the overall negative perception.

“The customs booths are damaged and have not seen renovations for years. The asphalt surface is dirty and unrepaired, showing clear signs of long-term neglect. The grassy areas surrounding the crossing are unkempt, with overgrown vegetation threatening to overtake the infrastructure. The approach to the border crossing itself resembles a forgotten outskirts, rather than the gateway to a tourist-friendly and ecological nation,” the statement noted.

They expressed particular concern over the large number of stray dogs that frequent the crossing daily.

“Groups of stray dogs pose serious health and safety risks, not only due to potential attacks but also through the spread of infectious diseases. Adding to this neglect, the public restroom designated for citizens has been out of order for years. The path leading to it is overrun with brambles, the concrete steps are crumbling, and the restroom itself is unusable. Consequently, citizens have no choice but to relieve themselves by the roadside, leading to unpleasant odors, unsanitary conditions, and a dismal appearance of the area. Furthermore, various types of litter, papers, and human waste line the road, a sight that no tourist destination should accommodate. Additionally, the septic tanks of the toilets used by customs and police officers are not regularly emptied, contributing to the foul odor that permeates the area and further tarnishes the already poor image of the Dobrakovo Border Crossing Point,” asserted the NGO Network of the North.

They also pointed out that the banks along the Lim River are littered with a significant amount of plastic packaging, bags, and waste, and no efforts are made to clean up.

“Instead of being greeted by a natural environment, travelers encounter garbage and neglect. Therefore, we urge the relevant state authorities, particularly the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Police Administration, the Customs Administration, and the Bijelo Polje local government, to take immediate action in organizing and revitalizing the Dobrakovo Border Crossing Point. This includes renovating the public toilets for citizens, providing adequate waste disposal and regular cleaning, ensuring professional and respectful conduct from police officers, addressing the stray dog issue to safeguard citizens, and initiating comprehensive renovations of this important border point. It is crucial that this site correctly represents Montenegro and nurtures positive relationships with both citizens and visitors. The border crossing and its staff reflect the state, and what we currently see at Dobrakovo is not a reflection we can be proud of,” concluded the North NGO Network statement.

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