Montenegro Country Report

Although Montenegro is relatively stable, protests are fairly common and political and ethnic tensions may erupt in the areas bordering Kosovo and southern Serbia. Elections are considered free and fair.

The potential threat from terrorism cannot be discounted given the presence of individuals and organizations with ties to terrorist groups in the country. However, the threat level is considered to be low given the absence of terrorist attacks in recent history. Petty and opportunistic crime can pose a threat to travelers, with public places such as airports and public transportation hubs being higher risk areas for pickpocketing and bag-snatching. Foreign travelers are often targeted due to their perceived affluence. Vehicular theft is a problem, especially with regard to luxury vehicles. Violent crime is rare and is often linked to organized criminal activity, although incidents between rival crime groups in major urban centers can pose a threat to bystanders. Finally, counterfeit currency and goods are widespread.

Many physicians are well-trained, but hospitals and clinics may lack supplies and equipment. Most essential pharmaceuticals and basic supplies are available in privately-owned pharmacies.

Overland travel in much of the country can be hazardous as a result of poorly maintained and narrow roads.

Criminal activity, particularly burglaries and petty theft, are the main threats facing travelers in Montenegro. Pickpocketing often occurs on public transportation and in crowded public places. Security operations are ongoing along the border with Kosovo. There is a threat of terrorism. There are frequent demonstrations, especially in the vicinity of government offices and other symbolic locations.

Air travel to and from Montenegro is generally considered to be safe.

Many roads are poorly maintained and secondary roads tend to be narrow. Some local road users do not always follow safe driving practices.

The ports are considered efficient.

Access to utilities in the main cities is good, although service delivery may be poor in rural areas. Mobile network coverage is good throughout the country.

The country is not widely known to sponsor cyberattacks, but its government has reported being targeted by them on an intermittent basis.

Montenegro has a Mediterranean climate, with long dry summers and short mild winters. Flooding can occur following to particularly heavy rainfall during winter months (December to February), often causing property damage and travel disruption. The country is located in a seismically active region and experiences occasional minor earthquakes. These tremors rarely cause any significant damage or casualties but more serious earthquakes have previously led to widespread disruption and multiple fatalities. Landmines and unexploded ordnance (UXO) also present a threat in some areas of the country.

Adequate health facilities are available in Podgorica and other cities but health care in rural areas may be limited. Pharmacies exist in all major towns and cities and are generally well-stocked, although some specialist prescription pharmaceuticals may not be available. Drinking water is generally safe in Montenegro.

Montenegro is a unitary, multi-party parliamentary republic. The President is the head of state, and the Prime Minister is the head of government. The Prime Minister and the ministers form the government and exercise executive power. The unicameral parliament exercises legislative power. Parliamentary elections occur once every four years, while presidential elections occur once every five years. Early parliamentary elections have occurred in response to political developments. The judiciary is nominally independent of the executive and the legislature but is widely regarded as corrupt and ultimately under the control of the government of the day.

Coalitions featuring a cross-section of political parties are typically required to form the government. Government collapses occasionally occur. State institutions are moderately competent and effective but provide unreliable services in rural areas.