The aim of this meeting was to provide support to the Working Group for the preparation of amendments to the Law on Prevention of Corruption (LPC), through a constructive dialogue with the representatives of key institutions, international partners and the civil sector, in order to create a comprehensive, functional and efficient legal framework for the prevention of corruption.

The meeting was attended by Mr Momo Koprivica, Deputy Prime Minister for Political System, Judiciary and Anti-Corruption, Mr Dušan Drakić, Acting Director of the APC and the representatives of the Council of the Agency, Mr Bojan Božović, Minister of Justice, and the representatives of the embassies of the United States of America, France, Great Britain and the EU Delegation to Montenegro. The presence of numerous experts from the non-governmental sector and international organizations confirmed the importance of the topic for the Montenegrin society and the international community.

Statements of Participants

Mr Momo Koprivica, Deputy Prime Minister, pointed out that comprehensive efforts to reform anti-corruption legislation are evident, and that he expects that the law, which will be developed in such an inclusive manner, will be the public capital. "In order to strengthen the role of the Agency, a stable legal framework is primarily required, but also non-selectivity and impartiality in its work. The decisions made by the APC inspire confidence in this regard, and the Government will contribute to strengthening its role in the anti-corruption system," Koprivica pointed out.

Mr Dušan Drakić, Acting Director of the APC, pointed out in his address that the creation of a stable legal framework was crucial for strengthening the independence and accountability of the Agency. "A comprehensive and stable legal framework, along with good governance and expertise, are the basic prerequisites for achieving measurable results in the fight against corruption. This law must ensure the functional, operational and financial independence of our Agency, aimed at its sustainability and integrity," Drakić pointed out.

Mr Bojan Božović, Minister of Justice, said that the executive power had an obligation to create conditions for the stable operation of the Agency as an umbrella preventive anti-corruption institution. "It is our responsibility to create an environment in which it will be possible for the APC to deliver the results we all expect," Božović said.

Conclusions and future activities

It was emphasized at the round table that the APC and the Ministry of Justice would continue intensive work on improving anti-corruption legislation, with the active involvement of the civil society, international partners and the expert community. The commitment was demonstrated to address key challenges related to strengthening institutional independence, impartiality and accountability through amendments to the LPC.

The event once again confirmed that the fight against corruption requires joint efforts of all social actors, as well as strong support from the international community. By creating a sustainable and efficient legal framework, Montenegro demonstrates its commitment to meeting European standards in the area of ​​the rule of law and good governance.