Government: Montenegro records registered unemployment below eight percent for the first time

Montenegro records registered unemployment below eight percent for the first time, the Government of Montenegro announced today.

"Montenegro has achieved a historic result on the labor market. According to the latest data from the Employment Agency, the registered unemployment rate in May 2026 was 7.84%, which represents the lowest registered unemployment rate since the Agency has been keeping these statistics. This is the first time in the history of Montenegro that the registered unemployment rate has fallen below the 8% mark, confirming the continuity of positive trends on the labor market and the results of measures implemented by the Government of Montenegro in the areas of economy, employment and improving living standards," the statement states.

The Government added that the Employment Service of Montenegro (EZCG) registered 24.751 unemployed people at the end of May.

"Compared to the end of 2023, when almost 40 thousand unemployed persons were registered, the number of unemployed persons has decreased by more than 15 thousand, or approximately 38%. Compared to May 2024, when 35.415 unemployed persons were registered, the number of unemployed persons has decreased by 10.664, or almost a third. Even more telling is the fact that the registered unemployment rate at the end of 2020 was 20,48%, while today it is 7,84%," the Government said.

The statement states that positive trends are present in all regions of the country.

"In May 2026, the registered unemployment rate was 28,47% in the northern region, 4,57% in the central region and 2,31% in the coastal region. Although the north still records the highest unemployment rate, it is this region that is the focus of development policies and employment programs that encourage investments, job creation and more balanced regional development," the Government said.

The statement also states that a significant contribution to these results is made by the services and programs of active employment policy implemented by the Ministry of Labor, Employment and Social Dialogue and the Employment Agency of Montenegro.

"During 2026, a new cycle of programs aimed at increasing employability and including unemployed persons in the labor market was launched, through support for employment with employers, training and work experience programs, support for self-employment, as well as special programs intended for young people, women, the long-term unemployed, beneficiaries of material security and other persons who need additional support in employment. At the same time, the Institute's services were improved through the digitalization of processes, cooperation with employers and dialogue with the economy and local communities were intensified, and thus the labor supply was better aligned with the needs of the labor market," the statement said.

The executive news release said that "the historically lowest registered unemployment rate is confirmation that responsible public policies, institutional cooperation, and continued investment in active employment measures are bringing results that are both visible and measurable."

"The Government of Montenegro will continue, in partnership with the Ministry of Labor, Employment and Social Dialogue and the Employment Agency, to implement policies that encourage the creation of new jobs, increase employment and create quality work opportunities for all citizens, with a special focus on youth and the north of our country," the Government said.