Montenegro has officially received 80 million euros in grant support from the European Union’s Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance (IPA III). This marks a significant advancement in utilizing EU funds and plays a crucial role in implementing essential reforms as Montenegro moves towards EU membership, as announced by the Ministry of Finance.

This achievement results from the dedicated collaboration among all institutions involved in the IPA structure, under the coordination of the Ministry of Finance, alongside the continuous backing of the European Commission and commitment to realizing Montenegro’s strategic objectives on its European journey, the government department added.

According to a press release, the funds will be available through two multi-year financial agreements between the Government of Montenegro and the European Union: the Operational Programme for Employment and Social Inclusion (2024–2027) and the Operational Programme for Environment Protection and Climate Change (2024–2027).

“These substantial grants will specifically target reforms aimed at enhancing the quality of life for our citizens by bolstering employment, promoting social inclusion, protecting the environment, and addressing climate change,” stated Minister of Finance Novica Vuković.

The signing of these agreements, as per the Ministry of Finance, confirms the successful completion of the operational programs’ accreditation process, placing Montenegro among those countries that consistently and efficiently utilize available EU funds.

The statement revealed that 48.5 million euros have been designated for environmental protection and climate change, while 31.6 million euros are allocated for employment and social inclusion.

“This is a collective achievement of the Ministry of Finance and all members of the IPA structure, including the Ministry of Labor, the Ministry of Social Welfare, the Ministry of Ecology, the Ministry of Public Works, and the Employment Service—an example of effective coordination, teamwork, and a clear European vision. We are also grateful for the indispensable support of the European Commission in this process,” expressed State Secretary Milica Adžić.

The press release highlighted that the Operational Program for Employment and Social Inclusion aims to strengthen social cohesion, boost employment—particularly among youth and vulnerable groups—and develop skills in line with the modern labor market’s demands.

“The Ministry of Labor, Employment and Social Dialogue, as the Managing Authority, leads the implementation of inclusive, sustainable, and development-oriented policies, while the Ministry of Social Welfare, Family Care, and Demography continues enhancing the quality and accessibility of social services to improve living standards for our most vulnerable citizens.

“The Employment Service of Montenegro is prepared to implement measures that will enhance employability, encourage active societal inclusion, and reduce social exclusion,” the Ministry of Finance stated.

The Operational Programme for Environment and Climate Change supports initiatives focused on conserving natural resources, enhancing waste management systems, and meeting European environmental standards in alignment with Chapter 27 of the negotiation process.

“The Ministry of Ecology, Sustainable Development, and Northern Development (MERS), as the Managing Authority, will work to bolster institutional capacities and support a sustainable and resilient Montenegro. MERS aims to improve natural resource conservation and develop a superior waste management system. The prudent use of funds and the execution of projects, with a special emphasis on sustainable development initiatives in the northern region, will serve as tools for implementing effective policies in environmental and climate change areas while contributing to fulfilling obligations under Chapter 27.

“The Ministry of Public Works is dedicated to ensuring efficient, responsible, and transparent fund implementation, with particular attention to the fact that investments in the environment form a critical pillar of the state’s policy in addressing climate challenges,” concluded the Ministry of Finance statement. It was noted that, moving forward, inter-institutional collaboration will determine the timeline for contracting funds and carrying out projects, including clear and accessible mechanisms for safeguarding the financial interests of the EU in Montenegro.

News