(VIDEO) Đukanović: In 2026, I expect a turbulent struggle between politics and Montenegro's EU path!

(Patria) - Assistant Professor Doctor at the University of Donja Gorica in Montenegro and political scientist Nikoleta Đukanović is the new guest of Nevena Kovačević in the Patria Agency podcast, which we are producing from Podgorica.

In conversation with Kovačević, Đukanović analyzes Montenegro's possibilities and opportunities for joining the European Union after the intergovernmental conference and the closing of certain negotiation chapters.

“Our politicians, primarily the Government of Montenegro, are not using this time and space to reform our society and country in a way that Montenegro becomes an equal participant in the process after accession, but rather see it as a kind of political victory that should bring better election results to the parties in power,” Đukanović commented on the initial blockade by France regarding the closing of Montenegro's chapters, which was later withdrawn.

She added that geopolitical activities are important factors in all of this, and that Europe, after Donald Trump's election, realized that it must solve its own problems.

“I think our politicians must be aware that this is an opportunity to be seized, and not something predetermined. It is a good message that we get some wind in our sails to close the remaining chapters. It is difficult to explain with common sense that in 14 years we have negotiated much less than what, according to announcements, we will close in about a year,” Đukanović points out.

She reminded that the dilemma and question of whether to continue the EU enlargement or to stop it until the EU itself consolidates has been present for a long time.

Asked if Montenegro can preserve its value framework and civic character with the existing structures, which include Andrija Mandić, the Speaker of Parliament who announces constitutional changes, Đukanović says: “I am not much of an optimist. The changes so far have been a big delusion. In recent years, the pace of destruction of this society and its civic character has continued by emphasizing nationalist, populist, right-wing ideologies… We must not forget that a significant part of our parliamentary majority consists of retrograde right-wing groups. The idea of limited rights when we become an EU member stems precisely from these pro-Russian and pro-Serbian ties. I see a great danger there”.

In conclusion, Đukanović says: “I think 2026 will be an important and turbulent year because the parties are already preparing for the 2027 elections. I think in 2026 much more focus will be on those elections than on fulfilling the conditions. I believe that democratic structures will realize that 2026 is an opportunity that should not be missed. I would not be surprised if the closing of chapters is postponed to 2028 and membership to 2030”.