Montenegro: Herausforderungen für die Zukunft
Montenegro: Challenges for the Future

Summary/Abstract: The text represents a speech delivered by the representative of the German Foreign Office at the opening of a conference organized by the Southeast Europe Association on March 28-30, 2003, at Herceg Novi, Montenegro, entitled “Dialogue on the Future of the Western Balkan Region: Montenegro”. Montenegro, like the other countries of the Western Balkans, is confronted with three major challenges today: 1. The need for functional and efficient state structures that also match the obligations in relation to the EU. Serbia and Montenegro require a common foreign representation, a common economic area with common tariffs and market. Within the union with Serbia, Montenegro can enhance its attraction to foreign investors, its foreign influence and the dynamic of reforms. 2. Peace and stability demand multi-ethnicity as a concept without alternatives. Ethnic co-existence – already a reality in present Montenegro – must be preserved. 3. Democracy and the rule of law: Democratic transition must continue and include the whole society, with the civil society playing a key role. Establishing the rule of law is a prerequisite for democratic change. The fight against corruption, organized crime, smuggling and human trafficking must be reinforced with great determination.

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