MONTENEGRO: Issues and Questions Background Briefing 1999-05
MONTENEGRO: Issues and Questions Background Briefing 1999-05

Author(s): Author Not Specified
Subject(s): Politics, Economic policy, Security and defense, Post-Communist Transformation
Published by: ESI – European Stability Initiative
Summary/Abstract: There is a real threat of parallel structures consolidating in parts of Montenegro governed by the SNP (the pro-Milosevic party of Momir Bulatovic), as municipalities in the area are passing resolutions to assert their autonomy from Podgorica, should the government in Podgorica move towards independence. This was timed to coincide with the beginning of negotiations between the governments. - Even holding a potential referendum on independence in these areas is considered impossible by some observers. The implementation of new laws on state enterprises and the regulations to control currency transfers across the borders will indicate the extent of the authority of the Podgorica administration.The Montenegrin Interior Ministry continues to remain confident that it can maintain control of a complex security situation. While tribal assemblies (plemenske skupstine) in the Northern municipalities continue to meet, they have lost some of their initial momentum since September. - The economic and social situation continues to deteriorate. There is fear that social unrest and strikes at major enterprises in protest at delays in payments of wages and social benefits could be instrumentalists to weaken the hold of the Podgorica government.

• Details
• Contents