Brussels, 08/10/2014 (Agence Europe) - On Wednesday 8 October, the European Union called on Montenegro for strong political commitment in the area of rule of law.
Strong political engagement is essential for the deep and sustainable political reforms needed to strengthen the rule of law, the European Commission states in its progress report on Montenegro. It recalls the clause on overall balance in the negotiations and warns that progress, with tangible results, on Chapter 23 (judicial apparatus and fundamental rights) and 24 (freedom, security and justice) of the EU accession process “will determine the overall pace of the negotiations” - including the opening of the negotiation chapters. Ten chapters have been opened and two provisionally closed since October 2013.
In its report, the Commission notes delays in a certain number of areas, especially in “the fight against corruption”. The legislative measures adopted have not produced results in practice, the Commission regrets. It is concerned about the freedom of expression and the media. Constructive political dialogue must be established and trust must be re-established in the electoral process and in state institutions, the Commission states, also underlining the need for depoliticisation of the public administration and increased professionalism. Economic reforms must also be continued.
In the Commission's view, “the strengthening of administrative capacity in the area of European integration” needs to be ensured to maintain momentum on the path to the EU. (CG)