Today, the President of the Capital City Assembly, Jelena Borovinić Bojović, stated that every municipality has potential, regardless of its size.

The Capital City Assembly recently hosted the First Conference of Presidents of Municipal Assemblies of Montenegro at Villa Gorica. This event, initiated by Borovinić Bojović, was themed “Perspectives on the Development of Local Parliaments and Strengthening Integration Processes”.

The conference welcomed representatives from local parliaments across all Montenegro municipalities with the goal of creating a stable platform for dialogue, sharing experiences, and enhancing the legislative and oversight functions of local governments. During the proceedings, participants officially adopted the Declaration on Connecting Local Parliaments of Montenegro, emphasizing their commitment to cooperation, democratization, and the integration of European standards at the local level.

Borovinić Bojović opened the conference with an insightful address.

“Today’s dialogue is not driven by obligation, but by conviction. We believe that robust local governments pave the way for a strong society. Parliaments should be seen as the backbone of reforms, not just as their companions. No municipality is too small if given the opportunity. It’s important to remember that Europe represents a collection of values—freedom, justice, solidarity, respect for diversity, and accountability. Local governments, like those present here, are fundamental in translating these values from laws into everyday life,” Borovinić Bojović asserted.

She also highlighted that the journey towards EU membership must begin at the local level, becoming an integral part of daily life and approached with responsibility.

“Local assemblies must act as the engines for reforms, not merely as passive observers. They are central to the democratic fabric, and this Declaration marks a vital progress towards their enhanced involvement in shaping Montenegro’s European future. I believe today we have laid the groundwork for a new, more influential, and accountable network of local governments,” she noted.

The Head of the European Union Delegation to Montenegro, Johan Sattler, also addressed the audience, with his support deemed crucial in advancing this initiative.

The adopted Declaration signifies a commitment from local parliaments to democratic values, rule of law, equality, and solidarity. Priorities outlined include strengthening mutual cooperation, enhancing transparency, digitalizing services, promoting the inclusion of women and marginalized groups, and jointly accessing EU funds to encourage local development.

The Declaration further states: “We urge all municipalities, institutions, and citizens of Montenegro to endorse this Declaration and actively partake in its implementation, thereby contributing to our nation’s expedited progress towards full EU membership.”

Additionally, the conference featured presentations from municipal assembly presidents who shared examples of successful practices, challenges faced in local legislative roles, and initiatives to bolster cooperation nationally and regionally.

It was agreed to establish regular forums and annual conferences to track the Declaration’s implementation and strengthen dialogue with the Parliament of Montenegro. The gathering concluded with the adoption of resolutions and a cocktail reception, signaling that this initiative will serve as a continuous platform to enhance local democracy in Montenegro.

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