Strengthening rule of law is inseparably linked with implementing judicial reform, which requires the development of long-term policies clearly defining reform measures and objectives. As such, the reform process calls for close co-operation of all stakeholders, in particular representatives of the judiciary and other legal professions, the Government, academic community, lawyers, civil society organisations and society at large.

The draft of the Judicial Reform Strategy of Montenegro for 2024 – 2027 has been presented on 31 January 2024, along with the Action Plan for 2024 and 2025. These strategic documents have been developed by the multisectoral working group, established by the Ministry of Justice, with the expert support of EUROL 3 project, and the European Union and the Council of Europe's joint programme “Horizontal Facility for Western Balkans and Türkiye”.

The proposed Judicial Reform Strategy has as its objective the improvement of the quality of justice and the efficiency and effectivity of the judiciary, while strengthening the independence of the judiciary The Action Plan encompasses 82 activities aimed at meeting 22 operational goals foreseen by the strategy, with the appropriate indicators against which the progress in its implementation will be measured. .  

Successful implementation of the reform and achievement of its objectives, as well as the benefits they may bring will depend utterly on a proactive role of judicial authorities and other relevant stakeholders. Notably, the Judicial and Prosecutorial Councils, judges and prosecutors play a prominent role the whole reform process. At the same time, engagement of and co-ordination with legal professionals and civil society is crucial to ensure that reforms are effective and instil confidence.

The presentation was organised by the Ministry of Justice of Montenegro, with support of the action "Strengthening accountability of the judicial system and enhancing protection of victims' rights in Montenegro" which is part of the joint European Union and Council of Europe programme Horizontal Facility for the Western Balkans and Türkiye.