Jakov Milatović: Montenegro’s Youngest President and His Vision for the Future
At just 36 years old, Jakov Milatović made history by becoming Montenegro’s youngest-ever president, a position he assumed after a decisive election victory in May of last year. His campaign was marked by a strong pro-European Union (EU) stance, resonating with voters who seek a brighter future for the country.
Milatović, an economist by profession and a former minister of economic development, is navigating a complex political landscape. He aspires to strengthen Montenegro’s ties with the European Union while simultaneously fostering better relations with its historical partner, Serbia. This balancing act is particularly challenging given the differing views on critical issues, notably the recognition of Kosovo. While Montenegro has recognized Kosovo’s independence, Serbia remains opposed, and Milatović is steadfast in maintaining Montenegro’s position.
In an interview with Euronews, Milatović candidly acknowledged the hurdles that lie ahead on Montenegro’s EU membership journey. He humorously remarked, “If there were no challenges, we would already be part of the EU.” These challenges primarily revolve around implementing necessary reforms across various sectors, including:
- The judicial system
- Freedom of expression
- Measures to combat corruption
Milatović emphasizes the importance of these reforms, stating that they are essential not only for the EU accession process but also for the well-being of the citizens. He envisions a society characterized by a robust rule of law, effective governance, and a firm stance against corruption. He believes that addressing these issues is more critical than merely securing EU funding, which he acknowledges as valuable. He describes the reform agenda as a “key anchor,” a constant reminder for policymakers to stay focused on necessary changes.
According to Milatović, the ongoing reform agenda is not just a bureaucratic obligation but a transformative journey that will ultimately benefit the people of Montenegro. He asserts, “We all want to live in a society where there is a clear rule of law, where there is good governance, and where corruption is nonexistent.”
Despite his optimism, Milatović does not shy away from acknowledging setbacks, such as unresolved attacks on journalists and the dependency of the public broadcaster. Nevertheless, he is committed to addressing these issues head-on. In what he describes as “good news” for Montenegro, he notes an invigorated interest in EU enlargement among member states, particularly following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. He believes that the EU has come to recognize that its enlargement policy is also vital for the security of the European continent.
For those interested in a deeper exploration of Milatović’s thoughts and aspirations, be sure to catch the full interview next Thursday (12 December) on the latest edition of The Global Conversation.
