Guidelines for a harmonised approach to sentencing in cases of sexual and gender-based violence are being developed by a newly established working group of the Supreme Court of Montenegro.

This initiative represents a significant step in strengthening the judiciary’s response to sexual and domestic violence, in line with the commitments outlined in the Reform Agenda.

 On 2 September, a coordination meeting gathered representatives from the courts, along with national and regional experts, to agree on the next steps, define the division of tasks, and set a clear timeline for the work ahead.

The forthcoming guidelines will provide judges with practical tools to evaluate aggravating and mitigating circumstances, ensure uniform application of the law, and reinforce the protection of victims’ rights. By establishing clear and consistent standards, the Supreme Court aims to build public trust in the justice system and improve the way domestic violence and sexual abuse cases are adjudicated.

This initiative is supported in the framework of the action “Strengthening accountability of the judicial system and enhancing protection of victims’ rights in Montenegro”,  part of the joint European Union and Council of Europe programme “Horizontal Facility for the Western Balkans and Türkiye” which is enabling the Beneficiaries to meet their reform agendas in the fields of human rights, rule of law and democracy and to comply with European standards.