Gjeka: Support from the European Union and the Council of Europe is a key driver of systemic reforms in Montenegro

The Horizontal Facility mechanism has enabled European standards—defined through recommendations of the Council of Europe and the European Union—to be directly integrated into domestic legislation and policies, combining high-level expertise with practical tools on the ground, announced Gjeka. Gjeka stated that the rights of LGBTIQ persons have been improved through expert support in drafting the Law on the Legal Recognition of Gender Identity based on self-determination, as well as in evaluating the previous and developing a new LGBTIQ strategy. “Strengthening legal security and protection of vulnerable categories has created effective protection mechanisms for all citizens, along with continuous systemic responses to support Roma and Egyptian communities, persons with disabilities, and victims of gender-based violence,” said Gjeka. According to him, completing the normative framework and strengthening institutional capacities form the foundation of an inclusive, European, and civic Montenegro. The continuation of this cooperation sets a clear vision for the future in which the protection of dignity and equality of all citizens are at the center of further European integration. “I consider the completion of this program a solid foundation for consolidating everything we have achieved together and for Montenegro’s continued reform path towards full EU membership,” concluded Gjeka.