Media laws at Montenegro
Montenegro has undertaken significant reforms to align its media legislation with European Union standards, focusing on enhancing media freedom, transparency, and professionalism. The comprehensive legislative package adopted in June 2024 includes the revised Media Law, the Law on Audio-Visual Media Services, and the Law on the National Public Broadcaster RTCG. These reforms aim to strengthen the autonomy of regulatory bodies, improve media pluralism, and ensure the protection of journalists' rights
Key Provisions of the New Media Law
Definition of Journalists: The law explicitly defines journalists to include employees, contracted workers, and freelancers engaged in collecting, processing, and editing information for media outlets
Protection of Journalistic Sources: Journalists are not obligated to disclose their sources unless mandated by a court order, and only when necessary to protect national security, territorial integrity, or public health
Editorial Independence: The law ensures that journalists cannot be penalized for refusing to produce content that contradicts the law or ethical codes. It also grants them the right to seek compensation if their reputation is harmed by such content
Media Registration and Transparency: All media outlets are required to register in a publicly accessible registry. Failure to do so may result in fines ranging from €500 to €5,000. Additionally, media owners must disclose ownership details for entities holding over 5% of shares, with non-compliance leading to ineligibility for public advertisements
Funding for Media Projects: The law establishes the Fund for Encouraging Media Pluralism and Diversity, allocating at least 0.20% of Montenegro's current budget to finance media projects that promote cultural diversity, education, and other public interest topics
Media Strategy 2023–2027
In October 2023, Montenegro adopted its first Media Strategy for 2023–2027, accompanied by an Action Plan for 2023–2024. This strategy outlines 104 measures aimed at fostering an environment conducive to free and professional journalism. Key objectives include enhancing media literacy, supporting editorial and financial independence, and improving the working conditions of media employees
International Support and Recommendations
The European Union and the Council of Europe have provided expert support throughout the legislative reform process. Their assistance has been instrumental in aligning Montenegro's media laws with international standards, particularly concerning the protection of freedom of expression and media independence
Challenges and Ongoing Efforts
Despite these advancements, challenges remain in ensuring the effective implementation of the new laws. Issues such as insufficient funding for media outlets, slow judicial responses to cases of violence against journalists, and political polarization continue to affect the media landscape in Montenegro . Ongoing efforts are needed to address these challenges and fully realize the objectives of the media reforms.
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