Representatives from the Center for the Protection and Study of Birds (CZIP) and the Montenegrin Society of Ecologists (CDE) have presented a Declaration on the Protection of Montenegro’s Space to the Parliament.

This action was taken symbolically in response to concerns regarding the Agreement between the United Arab Emirates and Montenegro, which pertains to tourism and real estate development.

The coalition of NGOs and activists known as “Big Beach or Big Lie” urged citizens to gather in front of the Parliament building yesterday to demonstrate their opposition to the agreement.

Video: Mirko Kotlas

Members of Parliament are set to vote on the Agreement for a second time today, following President Jakov Milatović’s decision to return it for reconsideration after its initial approval.

Jovana Božović from CZIP highlighted their gathering at the Parliament as an effort to envision a better and more equitable future.

“Just as we safeguarded Sinjajevina and Solana, we will protect every other location, regardless of the vote’s outcome today,” she asserted.

She pointed out that Prime Minister Milojko Spajić and UAE investor Mohamed Alabar expect citizens to trust their assurances, even though these assurances are not formally documented. Božović emphasized that these expectations stem from professionals and those who will be directly impacted by the investment.

She urged the MPs to vote based on their convictions rather than following directives and read a segment of the Declaration on the Protection of Montenegro’s Space, indicating it was prepared by the Chamber of Engineers.

“Today’s slogan wild beauty is merely a phrase found on the covers of strategies and reports, but action is crucial for preserving the beauty of our landscape. We are losing what this slogan stands for,” she stated, adding that Montenegro does not require “large construction projects,” swimming pools on Velika Plaza, or amusement parks on archaeological sites.

She emphasized the need for strong institutions and a return to cultural planning and spatial development.

Those present also articulated some of their demands, including adherence to sustainable development principles, the formulation of spatial and urban plans that are not influenced by investor interests, ensuring institutional independence in spatial planning, and engaging universities, NGOs, and experts in the decision-making process while democratizing the planning of spatial development.

“Today, our accountability towards our land is more critical than ever,” Božović said.

Andrijana Mićunović from CDE indicated that they gathered to convey a clear message: Montenegro’s resources are not for sale.

She insisted that every contract and project should prioritize citizens over investors.

“This level of opacity has never been and will never be accepted in Montenegro. Those who vote must understand they are determining whether Montenegro values its children and future. To those voting today, I say this is not how we cherish and develop Montenegro. We will continue to advocate for free beaches, rivers, and the rights of citizens,” she declared, asserting that the region’s most valuable assets should not serve the interests of a few.

She also stressed that they aspire to a future where children can enjoy Velika Plaza and other resources.

Journalist and writer Mustafa Canka recalled an old saying from the Paštrovićs: whoever sells land sells freedom, citing Budva as a prime example of this lesson ignored by its heirs.

He urged the ruling majority to exhibit at least a modicum of dignity and take responsibility, but noted that true accountability is now lacking.

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