Montenegro - in three ways, from one angle
In the contemporary political environment of Montenegro, three parallel processes can often be recognized:
- calls for reconciliation from religious structures,
- political blockades and pressures on the streets,
- public speeches about reconciliation that take place simultaneously with the participation of political actors involved in those same blockades.
It is precisely in this dissonance that the key paradox of contemporary politics arises.
The gap between words and deeds
As Balašević said: "Some praise him, others say - oh, my brother, he was as rotten as a hollow tooth."
This metaphor accurately depicts one part of the political reality in Montenegro. The problem is not the idea of reconciliation as such, but its political instrumentalization. When reconciliation is used as a declarative goal, while in practice it produces pressures, blockades and new dividing lines, it loses its essence and turns into a rhetorical device without real content.
Identity crises as a substitute for reforms
Instead of focusing on reforms, the rule of law and strengthening institutions in a focused and responsible manner, political and media space is often redirected towards identity issues. Such an approach has serious consequences: it slows down reform processes and burdens Montenegro's European path.
While public debate is dominated by the past, symbols and identity disputes, key topics remain in the background - the efficiency of institutions, economic development, legal security and the quality of life of citizens. Identity crises, regardless of which side they come from, often become a substitute for concrete results and clear reform policies.
As they say in my Rožaje: “God kill me if they know what they want.” However, the reality is more complex. Some political actors very clearly recognize the power of identity issues and use them as a means of mobilization, control, and diverting attention from core problems.
Economic development as a neglected topic
One of the biggest shortcomings of the current political debate is the lack of commitment to the economy. The majority of Montenegrin citizens are leaving not because of identity dilemmas, but because of low wages, insecure jobs, and limited opportunities for personal and professional development.
Without a clear, sustainable and inclusive economic strategy - which includes investment, innovation and support for small and medium-sized businesses - it is difficult to talk about social stability or true reconciliation. Of particular concern is the lack of long-term policies aimed at retaining young and educated people.
Democratic accountability and the need for leadership
A clearer and more responsible role is expected from those in power and political forces that see themselves as progressive. Instead of caution, calculation and withdrawal, democratic development requires leadership - a willingness to take responsibility, admit mistakes and open space for dialogue based on knowledge and expertise.
A particular challenge arises when political and institutional accountability are intertwined with extra-institutional pressures. A democratic state must clearly separate the activities of institutions from those of the street, because only in this way can the trust of citizens be preserved.
The European road as a common denominator
Regardless of political, ethnic or religious differences, Montenegro's European path should remain a common minimum around which there is broad social consensus. The rule of law, functional institutions, economic security and respect for democratic values are not ideological slogans, but a prerequisite for a dignified life.
In this sense, the European Union is not just a foreign policy goal, but a framework for the internal organization of society.
Between noise and silence
In a small society like Montenegro's, a vocal and organized minority can often create the impression of a general mood. However, lasting change does not come about through pressure and noise, but through institutional work, reasoned debate, and measurable results.
Looking ahead - a citizen's state
Montenegro has demonstrated throughout history its ability to respond to complex challenges. Today's challenges are not military or territorial, but economic, institutional and democratic. The fight for a modern Montenegro today means the fight for jobs, independent institutions, free media and a society of equal opportunities.
Without this focus, the story of reconciliation remains unfinished. With it, Montenegro has a real opportunity to become a stable and modern European state - not only by political declarations, but by the everyday experience of its citizens.
The state does not defend itself with noise or blockades, but with laws that apply equally to all, institutions that function, and policies that serve the public interest. Only such an approach can bring about reconciliation that is not announced in words, but confirmed in deeds.
In this sense, Montenegro has the strength to move forward - peacefully, responsibly and with dignity, relying on its citizens and the values of modern democracy.
The author is a holder of the Order of Merit for the People of the Federal Republic of Germany (Bundesverdienstkreuz); he is the recipient of the “30. September” plaque, the highest award of the city of Rožaje
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