Twenty years of independence and the new identity of Montenegro

Twenty years after the restoration of independence, Montenegro, finalizing its European path, finds itself once again at the center of historical processes. A review of national achievements, state sovereignty, and the complex transformation process that brought Montenegro into NATO and to the doorstep of the European Union is an important domain of current public discourse. However, amidst this justified self-affirmation, one important aspect often remains insufficiently illuminated: the question of how the identity of Montenegro will develop in the future.

Because independence, like democratic coexistence, is not an end point, but a continuous process. And that process is inevitably leading Montenegro today into a new phase – towards a European future that does not contradict ethnic, religious or national identities, but rather complements and expands them.

For this very reason, Montenegro has a double reason to celebrate this year. With membership in the European Union, citizens will become part of the world's largest peace project, the largest single market, and young people, part of a common space of science and education. Such experiences create a sense of belonging – not abstract, but concrete and personal, and can contribute to the broader cohesion of society.

More than a political project

Montenegro's European integration is often seen in public debate primarily as a political-technical process of the so-called "political elite" - as a series of reforms, negotiations and institutional adjustments. However, the European Union is much more than a single market or an alliance of states - it is also a space of shared values, shared responsibilities and a unique common identity.

For Montenegro, potential EU membership is now within reach, thanks to the decisive steps of the political elite and the great support of the Montenegrin citizens. However, it does not only mean geopolitical positioning, but also an expansion of identity. In addition to the existing national, cultural, religious and historical identity, another one is emerging: the European one.

European identity is very concretely demonstrated in everyday life – when students from Montenegro study in Berlin, Rome or Paris through programmes such as Erasmus+ and make lifelong friendships there. It is also reflected in the fact that young entrepreneurs gain access to European markets, funds and networks. It will also be demonstrated through common standards in the areas of environmental protection, consumer rights or labour rights that improve the quality of life of all citizens.

Through such experiences, an individual develops a sense of belonging to a broader, European community, which over time becomes part of their identity.

This additional identity opens up new perspectives, enables simplified cross-border cooperation, and creates a framework in which differences are perceived not as a threat, but as an asset.

European identity is the new quality of Montenegrin future

Young people in Montenegro are already growing up in a reality that is more European than ever before – through education, exchanges, digital connectivity, and shared social challenges.

This generation experiences European belonging as part of their everyday lives. They do not think in terms of "either-or", but rather "both": Montenegrin and European.

Therein lies a great opportunity. Such a multi-layered identity can blunt the edge of existing divisions and contribute to greater openness, broader dialogue, and stronger social cohesion within Montenegro.

European identity shifts the focus from what divides to what unites. It is precisely this multi-layered identity that is a strength and an opportunity.

Responsibility and perspective

With this perspective comes responsibility. European identity does not automatically arise through formal EU membership. It must be lived, shaped and constantly rebuilt – through active citizenship, social engagement and a vibrant democratic culture.

Young people have a key role to play in this. They are the ones who will fill this new dimension of identity with content and new perspectives for their society and country. Therefore, the opportunity to express their ideas and actively participate in shaping the future is not an option – it is a necessity.

Looking ahead

Twenty years since the restoration of independence is not just an important anniversary, it is an opportunity for all its citizens to direct their gaze, emotions, hopes and expectations forward to its European future and all the chances and opportunities that future brings with it.

Strongly rooted in all its religious, ethnic, national identities and diversities alongside its European identity, Montenegro has the opportunity to strengthen its statehood, and preserve its cultural and historical heritage. As such, it is simultaneously the homeland of Montenegrins, Serbs, Bosniaks, Albanians, Muslims, Roma and Croats – and an active participant in the common European space.

The author is the director of the German Konrad Adenauer Foundation for Montenegro.