Part 5 of 14
Government of Montenegro
Composition, powers and functioning
The Government of Montenegro (Vlada Crne Gore) is the highest executive body in the state. Its constitutional status and main powers are defined in the Constitution of Montenegro, adopted on 19 October 2007, in particular in Articles 102–107. According to the constitutional provisions, the government exercises executive power in accordance with the Constitution and the laws of the country. An important feature is the principle of collective and individual responsibility of its members before the Skupština — the government must enjoy the confidence of the parliamentary majority.
Composition and Structure of the Government
The Government of Montenegro is headed by the Prime Minister, who directs its work and bears responsibility for the implementation of state policy. In addition to the Prime Minister, the government includes deputy prime ministers and ministers responsible for various areas of state governance.
Each deputy prime minister oversees a specific area of state policy — security, European integration, the economy, social policy and others. This enables more effective coordination in key areas and implementation of priority projects.
Ministries
Within each ministry, various departments, directorates and divisions operate to ensure the implementation of state policy in the relevant area.
Formation of the Government
The process of forming the Government of Montenegro begins after parliamentary elections. According to the constitutional procedure, the President of Montenegro, after consulting with representatives of parties that obtained seats in parliament, proposes a Prime Minister candidate. The candidate presents the government's programme to the Skupština and proposes its composition. Approval of the government requires the support of a majority of the total number of deputies.
The new government was confirmed by 46 votes in favour, 19 against, 1 abstention. The cabinet, in addition to the "Europe Now!" movement, included Democratic Montenegro, the Socialist Party of Montenegro and several smaller parties. In July 2024, parliament approved a reshuffled cabinet: 7 deputy prime ministers, 24 ministry heads and 1 minister without portfolio.
In November 2022, deputies passed amendments to the law on the President changing the procedure for granting a government formation mandate. The Venice Commission and the EU criticised these changes. Before the current cabinet, two unstable governments (Krivokapić and Abazović) had come and gone.
Powers and Functions of the Government
The government has the right of legislative initiative and in practice introduces the majority of bills considered by parliament. Provides opinions on bills introduced by other initiators.
The primary function is the execution of laws and other normative acts. Adopts subordinate legislation necessary for the implementation of laws. Determines the domestic and foreign policy of Montenegro, takes measures to ensure state security and protect citizens' rights.
Exercises leadership over the state administration system, appoints and dismisses heads of state administration bodies. Determines the organisation and mode of operation of state administration bodies, and conducts personnel policy.
Prepares and submits to the Skupština the draft state budget and a report on its execution. Ensures management of the country's economic policy, including matters of taxation, state property management and investment policy.
Conducts negotiations and concludes international treaties (subject to subsequent ratification by the Skupština). Participates in developing the country's foreign policy course together with the President and parliament.