If Montenegro aims to truly align its media sector with EU values rather than mere partisan activism cloaked in Brussels rhetoric, it must prepare and adopt its own Media Freedom Act.
The acquisition of the IBAR (Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance) following the adoption of several laws, including a set of media laws is a clear signal that Montenegro has made significant strides in key areas and can continue to align with EU standards.
Therefore, taking into account the overall state of the media sector, UZOR and the Montenegrin Association of Professional Journalists (DPNCG) once again call for the prompt preparation of the Montenegrin Media Freedom Act, in line with the European Media Freedom Act adopted by the European Parliament in March of this year.
The adoption of the Montenegrin Media Freedom Act would formally define the respect for editorial freedom and the independence of media service providers.
Through transparent processes for the appointment and dismissal of directors and heads of administrations, the independence of public services would be guaranteed, preventing their exploitation for political purposes.
Moreover, it would ensure better protection for journalistic sources and transparency in media ownership, meaning that all information about the actual owners would be disclosed so that citizens know who controls the media and whose interests may influence their reporting.
Additionally, following the example of the document adopted by the European Parliament, the Montenegrin Media Freedom Act should require media companies to report all funds received from state advertising, state financial support, as well as financial support from third countries.
By adopting this act, Montenegro would make significant progress on its European path regarding media freedom, clearly emphasizing that independent media services play a crucial critical and economic role in society.
UZOR and DPNCG, in cooperation with the Hanns Seidel Foundation and with the support of the European Commission, will provide all necessary assistance in preparing the Montenegrin Media Freedom Act.
Maja Nikolić, UZOR
Mila Radulović, DPNCG
