The Agency for Prevention of Corruption (APC) actively participated in the 44th meeting of the Steering Group of the Regional Anti-Corruption Initiative (RAI), held on December 5 and 6, 2024, in Tirana, organized by the Ministry of Public Administration and Anti-Corruption of Albania.

This meeting, attended by representatives from all member countries (Montenegro, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Moldova, North Macedonia, Romania, and Serbia), as well as observers from Ukraine and Georgia, represents an important step toward strengthening regional cooperation in the fight against corruption.

Montenegro’s participation in the RAI Steering Group meetings brings multiple benefits:

1. Strengthening the International Position of the APC – APC reaffirmed its role in the fight against corruption in Montenegro, actively participating in discussions about reforms and exchanging best practices with regional countries.
2. Support for the Development of Anti-Corruption Policies – RAI provides expertise and assistance to member countries in designing and implementing reforms that strengthen institutional and legislative frameworks. These activities directly contribute to improving standards in Montenegro, particularly in the context of European integration.
3. Opportunities for Education and Capacity Building – Through its membership in RAI, Montenegro benefits from resources for training, analysis, and research, which contributes to the professional development of personnel in the field of anti-corruption.
4. Increasing Transparency and Accountability – Participation in the meeting highlights Montenegro's commitment to adopting best practices for improving integrity and transparency in the public sector.

The meeting discussed proposals for changes to RAI’s internal procedures, the budget for 2025, and the extension of the mandates of the chairperson and senior anti-corruption advisor. These topics have a direct impact on RAI’s future activities, and consequently on the support that member states, including Montenegro, can expect in implementing reforms.

Montenegro, as a long-time member of RAI since its founding in 2000 under the Stability Pact for Southeast Europe, remains committed to working together to strengthen regional initiatives in the fight against corruption. APC’s active participation in this process represents a significant contribution not only for Montenegro but also for strengthening trust and stability in the region.