Overview

Following the positive result of the referendum held on 21 May 2006, independence was proclaimed on 3 June. The Republic of Montenegro is now a potential candidate country participating in the Stabilisation and Association Process (SAP). Montenegrin authorities face numerous challenges related to the consolidation of state institutions, economic and institutional reforms and the strengthening of its administrative capacity in order to implement the future Stabilisation and Association Agreement and to prepare the ground for further progress on the path of European integration.

Lessons Learned

The first years of the CARDS programme put emphasis on development and infrastructure (the funds were used for emergency and humanitarian relief, reconstruction and development activities and balance of payments support), the emphasis since the year 2003 shifted gradually to institutional building and to assistance to comply with the priorities of the European Partnership.

As of 14 December 2005, the European Agency for Reconstruction (EAR)’s global rate of contracting for combined 1998-2005 EC funds in Montenegro was 89% funds contracted and 81% disbursed.

The main lesson learned from the implementation of Community assistance in Montenegro is the need to ensure that there is increased ownership on the side of the beneficiaries and the corresponding sufficient absorption capacity.