Strengthening Institutional Cooperation for Better Protection of the Rights of Deprived Persons of Liberty

Podgorica - The Ministry of Justice announces that more efficient handling of recommendations from the National Mechanism for the Prevention of Torture (NPM) and faster information exchange to protect the rights of deprived persons will be enabled by a Memorandum of Cooperation, signed today by Minister of Justice Bojan Božović and Ombudsman Siniša Bjeković. The memorandum represents an additional step towards improving cooperation between the Ministry of Justice, responsible for the criminal sanctions enforcement system through the Directorate for Criminal Sanctions, and the NPM, which operates within the Protector's institution. It also foresees establishing direct communication between institutions through the appointment of contact persons, further enhancing cooperation efficiency and enabling timely responses to issues related to the protection of the human rights of detainees and prisoners. The memorandum does not change the legally prescribed competencies nor affect the independence of institutions, but reflects a shared commitment to improve the protection of the rights of deprived persons and consistent application of domestic and international standards through continuous dialogue, responsibility, and coordinated action. Minister of Justice Bojan Božović emphasized that the Ministry continues to work on strengthening the rule of law and improving the criminal sanctions enforcement system in accordance with the highest human rights standards. By signing this memorandum, we send a clear message of our dedication to transparent and constructive cooperation with independent institutions, as well as full implementation of recommendations that contribute to improving conditions and treatment of persons in correctional facilities.