We express our deep dissatisfaction with the decision of the Government of Montenegro to adopt the Programme of Temporary Structures in the Maritime Domain Zone for the period 2024–2028, despite the well-intentioned proposal of the coastal municipalities that priority be given to the Parliament of Montenegro in deciding on the management of the maritime domain zone, thereby completely disregarding the position of the local governments most directly affected by this decision.
We believe that the adoption of this Programme was carried out in a non-transparent manner, as evidenced by the fact that representatives of local governments were not even given the opportunity to participate in the process of its preparation, despite the fact that this document is of fundamental importance for the development of coastal municipalities and Montenegro’s tourism sector. Of particular concern is the introduction of criteria allowing persons with criminal convictions to participate in tender procedures for the lease of beaches and temporary structures, which raises serious questions regarding the legality and transparency of procedures for leasing locations within the maritime domain zone.
We hereby warn the Montenegrin public that the adoption of such a Programme will now undoubtedly jeopardize the preparation and implementation of the upcoming tourist season, thereby directly causing adverse consequences not only for the economic development of coastal municipalities, but also for Montenegro as a whole, whose economy relies heavily on tourism.
In view of the aforementioned issues, we request an urgent meeting with the Prime Minister of Montenegro Milojkom Spajićem so that we may present our views and jointly find a solution that would enable more efficient and equitable management of the maritime domain, while fully respecting the competences and interests of local governments.
If the opinions and suggestions of local governments are not taken into consideration, the coastal municipalities are prepared to initiate administrative proceedings to challenge the adopted decision, as we believe that it fails to protect the interests of local communities and that decisions of fundamental importance are being made without dialogue with those directly affected. Although we do not resort to radical measures, should we be compelled to do so, we do not rule out the possibility of using all legal mechanisms available to us in order to challenge the implementation of such a Programme of Temporary Structures in the Maritime Domain Zone.
We expect Prime Minister Spajić to recognize the importance of the situation we are facing and to finally take into account our common position regarding the restoration of powers to local governments in the management of the maritime domain, as we believe that this is the only path towards the responsible and sustainable development of the Montenegrin coast in the interests of its citizens and economy.
