Montenegro’s government is set to disburse over €18 million to political parties this year, as revealed by recent data. This funding will support 23 political parties represented in the current parliament, highlighting the financial landscape of political activity in the country. In total, Montenegro has 79 registered political entities, but only a fraction benefits from state funding.
According to the Agency for Prevention of Corruption (ASK), last year, these parties received €12 million in total, with €7.56 million already disbursed. The remaining €4.44 million will be allocated this year, in addition to the €13.83 million earmarked in the budget for political entities. These figures do not include other financial resources that parties and parliamentarians may receive through different budgetary allocations intended for the functioning of state and local parliaments.
The distribution of funds reveals a reliance on state financing for political activities in Montenegro. Many parties, particularly smaller groups and local initiatives, do not require membership fees to sustain their operations. Larger, long-established parties, such as the Socialist People’s Party and the Democratic Party of Socialists, often implement mandatory contributions from their members, ranging from €5 to €20 monthly, depending on the party and position within it.
Budgeting for Political Stability
The government’s commitment to providing substantial financial support reflects a new legislative framework that has increased funding availability. As stipulated by the new law on the financing of political parties and electoral campaigns, parliamentary representatives will see their budgetary allocations rise from 0.5% to 0.8% of the total planned budget for this year, estimated at €3.79 billion. This shift has resulted in significant increases in monthly budget disbursements for many parties, especially smaller political groups.
For example, minority parties, including the Croatian Civic Initiative and the Democratic Party, have seen monthly funding increases of up to 130.23%. Last year, these parties received between €2,800 and €18,600 monthly, whereas in 2026, their allocations are expected to rise to levels between €6,400 and nearly €43,000.
The funding increase also extends to women’s party organizations, which have been allocated a total of €67,507 monthly, up from €63,818. Each coalition will receive an equal share, enhancing the financial support available for women’s initiatives within political parties.
The financial landscape for political parties in Montenegro raises critical questions about representation and accountability. With over two-thirds of registered political entities lacking access to state funding, the challenge remains regarding whose interests are truly represented in the political arena.
As the landscape evolves, the emphasis on state financing for political parties reveals the complexities of political engagement in Montenegro, where reliance on public funds underscores the need for sustainable practices and transparency in party operations.
