The Ministry of European Affairs of Montenegro organized an Information Day regarding the Public Call for funding projects and programs of non-governmental organizations in the field of European integration for 2025, under the title “Dialogue for Europe.” The event gathered a large number of representatives from civil society organizations across Montenegro.
The participants were introduced to the objectives and priorities of the call, eligible activities, application requirements, and criteria for the allocation of funds. They also had the opportunity to ask questions and clarify any uncertainties related to the application process.
Speakers included Biljana Papović, State Secretary at the Ministry of European Affairs, Gordana Despotović Đekić, Director General of the Directorate for Public Information on the EU and the EU Accession Process, and Luka Stanković, Head of the Department for Harmonization of Regulations in the Area of Economic and Financial Affairs, who presented technical aspects of the application procedure.
State Secretary Biljana Papović emphasized the important role of civil society organizations at a time when Montenegro is entering the final phase of negotiations with the European Union. She outlined the current status of the negotiations and plans for closing chapters.
“Our current focus until the end of June or early July is to complete obligations in at least six chapters, including chapters 3, 4, 5, 6, 11, and 13. In addition, we are actively preparing the chapters planned for closure during 2026,” Papović stated.
She stressed the importance of involving civil society organizations through projects that monitor the implementation of EU policies on the ground. She also reminded that all reports and information are publicly available and that the Ministry remains open to suggestions aimed at improving communication and transparency in the process.
Gordana Despotović Đekić highlighted the importance of informing the public and involving NGOs in the European integration process. She stated that the role of NGOs is crucial in the EU accession process and that through projects like this, the Ministry aims to ensure quality cooperation and efficient communication with all relevant stakeholders. She invited all organizations to participate in the calls and contribute to further development and implementation of European standards in Montenegro.
“Through this call, we want to hear the voice of the civil sector, because European integration is not only the job of institutions – it is the responsibility of the entire society,” said Despotović Đekić.
“The total budget amounts to just over €103,604.49, with individual support ranging from €5,000 to €10,000. The call is open until June 5, and decisions are expected in early July. After that, contracts will be signed and regular project monitoring will be conducted throughout the year,” said Luka Stanković.
“We know that EU procedures are not simple, especially for smaller organizations with limited experience. That is why we have worked to simplify and clearly explain all technical steps, to give everyone an equal chance to apply. Events like this are a key tool for increasing transparency and mutual trust,” Stanković added, noting that the goal of the Information Day is to bring the application process closer to the organizations.
Zdravko Janjušević, a member of the Ministry’s Commission for the allocation of funds to NGOs for projects and programs in the field of Euro-Atlantic and European integration, further clarified certain procedures within the call and outlined the steps that follow.
Some of the questions raised by NGO representatives during the Information Day focused on the technical aspects of the application, such as eligible topics, project evaluation criteria, and specific requirements related to project implementation.
The Ministry of European Affairs encourages all NGOs to continue their active participation and to contribute through their projects to the European integration process of Montenegro.
MINISTRY OF EUROPEAN AFFAIRS