In June 2024, Montenegro became the first candidate to receive a positive Interim Benchmark Assessment Report (IBAR). This event paved the way for the closure of three chapters in December, after seven years of no progress in the dossier. At present, having closed six of the thirty-three negotiating chapters, Montenegro is the Balkan frontrunner as it is the most advanced candidate country in the process. Since taking office in 2023, the Montenegrin government has signaled its intention to conclude accession negotiations by 2026 with the goal of becoming the 28th EU member by 2028.This ambition that has been welcomed and supported by the European Commission.
This in-person Policy Briefing with Minister of European Affairs of Montenegro, Maida Gorčević, will discuss the state of play and prospects for Montenegro’s European integration path. It will also shine light on the country’s expectations from the EU in the enlargement dossier at this critical geopolitical juncture.
Participation is open to EPC members only, the media, and EU officials