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PoliticsMontenegro

Montenegro has its sights on the EU

Christian von Rechenberg
July 17, 2026

Montenegro is the front-runner among EU candidates, and many hope membership will spur economic growth. However, the country is contending with environmental destruction and corruption.

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Montenegro is preparing for a possible EU membership. In the Bay of Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, many people associate accession with hopes for economic growth and further reforms.

From the last watchmaker in Kotor’s Old Town to fishermen struggling with the effects of cruise tourism, as well as yacht charter operators and olive growers, many see new opportunities in joining the European Union. At the same time, the country continues its efforts to combat corruption and organized crime.