UPDATE: EU Ambassador Johan Satler has just announced that Montenegro is leading the pack as the top candidate for European Union membership, but urgent reforms in the judiciary and rule of law are essential for progress. In a compelling interview on 24 hours television, Satler emphasized that 2026 will be a defining year with critical chapters needing closure.
Montenegro aims for EU membership by 2028, an ambitious target that requires swift action on numerous legal reforms. Satler noted, “The upcoming Intergovernmental Conference next week will be pivotal as several chapters will be closed.” He highlighted that while Montenegro has made notable advancements, the journey is far from complete.
The ambassador underlined the necessity for the selection of Constitutional Court judges, stating that their absence has been a lost opportunity. “It is crucial to maintain focus on these areas,” he said. “We need to see steps taken in the coming weeks to appoint the necessary judges.”
Satler expressed satisfaction with the government’s quick response to appoint new candidates, emphasizing the importance of an efficient judicial system in Montenegro’s EU aspirations. He remarked, “We cannot leave any country in the region behind,” referencing the broader context of the Western Balkans’ EU integration.
The ambassador also addressed significant environmental issues, particularly concerning the urgent need for a wastewater treatment facility that will benefit around 250,000 citizens in the capital. He praised the government’s proposed budget of 30 million EUR for addressing these long-standing environmental concerns, including the contamination caused by untreated waste.
“We are seeing positive dialogue in Botun, where local leaders are engaging with citizens to solve pressing problems,” Satler noted, adding that collaborative efforts are crucial for progress. He stressed the importance of transparency in governance, indicating that the public can now access contracts related to environmental projects.
Moreover, Satler reiterated that Chapter 27, which focuses on environmental issues, is the most complex and will be addressed last in the accession process. “It is vital for the air you breathe and the water you drink,” he stated.
As Montenegro prepares for the next steps in its EU journey, Satler urged, “Now is the time to act decisively. The path to EU membership is open, and it is essential for Montenegro to make the most of this opportunity.”
The ambassador concluded by highlighting the importance of combating environmental crime, stating that initiatives to tackle illegal landfills are increasingly uniting citizens in their quest for a cleaner country. “This is a problem that brings people together, and we must continue to make real progress,” he said.
Authorities confirm that all eyes are now on the upcoming reforms, with the potential for Montenegro to set a precedent as the next EU member if it can successfully implement these critical changes.
