EUPopLink Country report - Montenegro

This country report examines the relationship between populism and Euroscepticism in Montenegro within the framework of the EUPopLink COST Action. It situates Montenegro as a frontrunner in the EU accession process among Western Balkan countries, characterized by sustained pro-European consensus but increasing political fragmentation and institutional instability. The report identifies key populist actors, including the New Serb Democracy (NSD), Democratic People’s Party (DNP), Democratic Montenegro (Demokrate), United Reform Action (URA), Europe Now! (PES), and the Democratic Party of Socialists (DPS), and analyses their ideological profiles and positions toward the European Union.

The findings indicate that Euroscepticism in Montenegro is predominantly soft, instrumental, and discursive rather than ideological or programmatic. While identity-based narratives are evident among right-wing actors such as NSD and DNP, other parties employ valence or technocratic populism, using the EU as a benchmark for governance reform or as a rhetorical tool in domestic political competition. Despite growing criticism of EU conditionality and perceived inconsistency, no major political actor advocates withdrawal from the EU integration process.

The report further demonstrates that responses to Euroscepticism rely on a combination of institutional reforms, particularly in the rule of law, media governance, and anti-corruption measures, alongside strategic communication of EU benefits. Overall, populist Euroscepticism in Montenegro remains limited in its capacity to shape policy direction, functioning primarily as a mechanism of political contestation rather than a transformative force.

This report examines how political parties in Montenegro position themselves toward the European Union (EU) and how populism shapes this dynamic. Montenegro has been advancing toward EU membership for many years, and most political actors continue to support this objective. However, the political landscape has become more polarized, and trust in institutions has declined.

Some parties use populist narratives to challenge political elites, corruption, or external influence. Others invoke the idea of Europe to present themselves as modern, reform-oriented, and effective. Even when parties express criticism toward the EU, they rarely oppose accession itself. Instead, they question the EU’s role, consistency, or level of engagement in supporting reforms in Montenegro.

Overall, Euroscepticism in Montenegro remains relatively mild and is primarily used as a political tool rather than a basis for policy change. The country’s EU trajectory remains stable, with most actors continuing to view the EU as essential for economic development, strengthening the rule of law, and improving governance.