The Just Transition Council convened for its inaugural session today, marking the establishment of an institutional framework aimed at guiding energy and climate initiatives while safeguarding people, communities, and the economy, as announced by the Ministry of Energy and Mining.

Chaired by the relevant minister, Admir Šahmanović, the Council comprises the ministers of finance, European integration, labor, employment and social dialogue, public works, and ecology, along with representatives from key institutions, energy entities, local governments, trade unions, the academic community, and civil society.

Šahmanović stated, “Our mission is to ensure that the transition is just, smart, and inclusive—bringing new value and security to every region of Montenegro, while leaving no one behind.”

He further emphasized the necessity of inter-sectoral collaboration and promised an accelerated pace in executing specific measures.

During the session, pivotal documents for the Council’s operations were ratified, a thorough analysis of the socio-economic conditions in the Municipality of Pljevlja was presented, and a working group was formed to collaborate with the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) on updating the Roadmap for a Just Transition and formulating a corresponding Action Plan.

Particular attention was given to Pljevlja—an area that has significantly contributed to Montenegro’s energy system for decades but now rightfully seeks support and alternative development pathways.

A just transition in Pljevlja entails investments in energy efficiency, the creation of new jobs, support for entrepreneurs, education in green skills, and enhancements in health and environmental protection.

Šahmanović remarked, “Pljevlja embodies a symbol and a test of our collective responsibility in leading the transition. Where citizens have sacrificed the most, the state must respond with concrete projects and a vision for a sustainable future.”

Concrete programs are already in progress, yielding tangible results.

These include the National Program for Energy Efficiency in Households, benefiting over 3,500 users with investments of ten million EUR, the Program for Support to the Economy in the Tourism and Manufacturing Sector, valued at five million EUR, and the operation of the Creative Hub in Pljevlja, serving as a venue for new ideas, training, and community networking.

The Council has agreed to convene quarterly, host thematic events, and bolster local community engagement in decision-making processes.

During the session, it was proposed to include the Minister of Education and the Minister of Economic Development in the Council’s activities for a more holistic approach. Furthermore, all Council members and representatives of relevant organizations will assign members to participate in developing the Action Plan for a Just Transition.

The Council acknowledged the Pljevlja Recovery Plan, the Pljevlja Coal Mine Business Transformation Plan, and the already approved Situation Diagnostics as critical foundations for planning future activities.

Naida Nišić, the Minister of Labor, Employment, and Social Dialogue, also suggested including Šahmanović in the Social Council’s activities, where the work of the Just Transition Council will be reported, ensuring the full engagement of trade unions in subsequent phases.

News