Montenegro, a small Balkan nation with a population of just 630,000, has launched an ambitious campaign to become the 28th member of the European Union by 2028. The slogan '28 by 28 – The Next EU Member' has been emblazoned on Air Montenegro's passenger aircraft, symbolising the country's determination to join the bloc. If successful, Montenegro would be the first new member since Croatia joined in 2013, and its small size would make it relatively easy to absorb into the EU of 450 million people. This would also boost Brussels' enlargement project, which faces more challenging candidates such as Ukraine.
Progress and Challenges
Montenegro has made significant strides in its accession process. It has opened all 33 negotiating chapters and closed 14, including those on agriculture and free movement of capital in late 2025. However, the most critical chapters on the rule of law and fundamental rights remain outstanding. Under EU rules, no other chapters can be finalised until Montenegro meets the final benchmarks in these areas. The country has launched an anti-corruption crackdown, resulting in high-profile arrests and convictions of former top judges, prosecutors, and police officials. Yet, the number of convictions remains low, and analysts point to persistent problems, including threats to media freedom and allegations of state capture and ties with organised crime, which the former ruling party denies.
Geopolitical Shift
Montenegro's relations with Russia have soured dramatically since its independence from Serbia in 2006. Once a close ally, Podgorica accused Moscow of plotting a coup in 2016, joined NATO in 2017, and enforced sanctions against Russia over the Ukraine war in 2022, leading Moscow to declare it an enemy state. Former leader Milo Djukanovic, who steered the country for three decades, described the split as a turning point, emphasising Montenegro's desire to control its own future within European and Euro-Atlantic structures.
Public Support
Ordinary Montenegrins overwhelmingly back EU membership. An April poll for the European Commission found that over 80% believed joining the EU would be positive for the country, a stark contrast to rising euroscepticism elsewhere in Europe. 'We have a future in Europe, we should not remain a part of the Balkan quagmire,' said Novak, a 45-year-old physiotherapist from Podgorica.
Next Steps
EU leaders are set to meet with Western Balkan counterparts in Tivat, Montenegro, to discuss the country's integration. EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos acknowledged Montenegro's progress but stressed the need for further reforms, particularly on the rule of law and judiciary. Predrag Zenovic, Montenegro's chief EU negotiator, expressed confidence that the country would meet the demands, stating, 'When the courts deliver a consolidated track record of results in verdicts, that will be the final test.'
