It is the responsibility of politicians to ensure quality working conditions and to create a safe and secure society for citizens, stated the Main Board of the Independent Police Union of Montenegro (NSPCG) today.

“For those who observed the celebration of Internal Affairs Day on October 2, 2024, one might believe that the future job in Montenegro is that of a police officer. Countless promises, praises, and flattering words have been made, yet they remain merely words—empty and unfulfilled. As we celebrate May 1, International Labor Day, discussions about the dignified life of workers, improved standards, and progress resurface. But, in the intervals of such celebrations, we continue to hear about the dignity, honor, and ethics of police work. There is significant truth in these statements,” emphasized the Main Board of NSPCG.

The committee highlighted that there is no greater honor than wearing a police uniform with integrity and serving one’s country and people.

“There’s no greater privilege than executing police duties with dignity and professionalism. For those who truly value it, this is invaluable. Unfortunately, these heartfelt sentiments do not pay the bills. We extend our unwavering and absolute support to all state bodies combating crime and corruption, especially within police ranks. This service should be pure, unblemished, and free from criminal influences,” stated Igor Rmandić, President of the NSPCG.

The Main Board of the NSPCG asserted that anyone who exploits their uniform for criminal acts should receive double the punishment of an ordinary citizen for the same crime.

“We have no doubts on this matter, but we must assert that the majority of honest professionals deserve respect first and foremost. Our shoulders ache from the constant affirmations and compliments about our accomplishments. While we appreciate the accolades, they make us slightly uncomfortable. Our identities often conflict; we grapple with the importance of work versus family, meager salaries versus raising children, and professional dignity versus human respect. We are embarrassed by relentless praise and more so by our inability to explain to our children why we spend long hours away from them, putting in overtime due to the shortcomings of some individuals in positions of power. These ‘boys’ in expensive suits remain detached from the struggles of ordinary citizens, from poverty to unpaid bills,” expressed the Main Board of the NSPCG.

They raised concerns—how does one explain to a child why they must buy their own shoes or uniform because those in power fail to provide for them?

“How can we justify purchasing our own uniform shirts due to a lack of support, all while earning a salary just marginally over the national minimum wage? This is an absurdity unheard of even in developing countries. If we’re considered a first or second-world country by any metric, should our children face the burden of resolving housing issues under shamefully unfavorable conditions? It shouldn’t be the case, yet it is; if parents secure an apartment through ‘favorable’ union terms, the resulting debt becomes a burden for the next generation. The decision-makers, who observe the current situation, fail to intervene or help ease the burden on their citizens,” the Main Board of the NSPCG added.

They lamented the ease with which politicians offer praise to police forces, celebrating their dignity and honor without addressing the systemic issues at hand.

“Such high-flown phrases, while they may seem beneficial to ratings, have been devalued to the point of worthlessness. We mask the facts, distort reality, and fool ourselves and others. We attempt to dress up our challenges without addressing the root issues. The rising dissatisfaction among police officers, driven by dire conditions concerning salaries, uniforms, and equipment—as well as overwhelming stress—could soon result in a wave of retirement requests. A significant number of police academy graduates remain unemployed, waiting for a call to duty. Does anyone truly believe the service can manage to conduct security checks for 100 recruits by December 2024? It appears the state lacks even the funds for these minimal salaries, leading us to question how they will manage to hire and pay the proposed 700 positions,” they stated.

It is time for politicians to fulfill their responsibilities.

“Their primary obligation is to provide quality working conditions and to foster a safe society for citizens. We do not implore for this; we demand it rightfully, for citizens are not subjects of politicians, but rather politicians are servants to the people. Anyone who thinks or acts otherwise does not have the best interests of this society or this country at heart. Repetitive, hollow phrases of support have become tiresome and irritating, not only to us but also to the general populace. What we require is genuine, meaningful support that is measurable and tangible. The only barrier to achieving this is the will of those in high office. Do they possess that will?” concluded the Main Board of the NSPCG.

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