Montenegro Proposes Constitutional Amendments for EU Integration

On February 19, 2026, the Montenegrin Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Milojko Spajić, held its 114th session. During this session, the Cabinet adopted the Proposal for the Amendment of the Constitution of Montenegro, a significant step in the country's ongoing efforts to align its legal framework with European Union (EU) standards.

Montenegro has been engaged in EU accession negotiations, particularly under Chapter 23, which focuses on judiciary and fundamental rights. As part of these negotiations, the EU Common Position adopted in June 2024 required Montenegro to amend its Constitution concerning the composition and appointment procedures of the Judicial Council and the Prosecutorial Council. This requirement aims to enhance the independence, accountability, and efficiency of the judiciary, aligning Montenegro's legal system with European standards.

The proposed constitutional amendments address the following key areas:

• Composition and Appointment Procedures of the Judicial Council: The amendments propose changes to the structure and selection process of the Judicial Council to ensure greater independence and impartiality. This includes revising the criteria and procedures for appointing members, reducing potential political influence, and enhancing the Council's role in safeguarding judicial independence.
• Composition and Appointment Procedures of the Prosecutorial Council: Similar reforms are proposed for the Prosecutorial Council, focusing on its composition and the appointment process of its members. The goal is to strengthen the autonomy and effectiveness of the prosecutorial system, ensuring it operates free from undue influence and in accordance with European best practices.

These proposed amendments build upon previous constitutional reforms, including the adoption of Amendments I–XVI to the Constitution of Montenegro in 2013, and significant legislative reforms in the area of judicial organization. The current proposal reflects Montenegro's commitment to continuous improvement and alignment with EU standards.

By adopting these constitutional amendments, Montenegro aims to fulfill its obligations under the EU accession process, demonstrating its dedication to upholding the rule of law and enhancing the credibility and functionality of its judicial institutions. These reforms are expected to contribute positively to Montenegro's progress toward EU membership, fostering greater trust in its legal system both domestically and internationally.