Montenegro Voice and Accountability

Montenegro’s Voice and Accountability score, as measured by the World Bank’s Worldwide Governance Indicators, reached 0.52 in 2025, marking its highest level since records began in 1998 and placing it 76th globally. This represents a significant improvement from its all-time low of -0.59 in 1998, reflecting a 25-year trajectory of gradual institutional development and expanded civic freedoms following the dissolution of the Yugoslav federation. The 2025 score matches that of peer countries such as Mauritius and Argentina, both also at 0.52, while slightly surpassing Panama’s 0.51 and notably exceeding Botswana’s 0.47. This upward trend suggests strengthening public participation in governance and enhanced media and political pluralism over time. The progress since the late 1990s, particularly after regaining independence in 2006, aligns with broader democratization efforts and alignment with European standards. However, the pace of improvement has slowed in recent years, indicating potential stagnation. Sustained gains will likely depend on deepening judicial independence, protecting journalists, and reducing political interference in public institutions. Without structural reforms, the current trajectory may plateau.