By Vladan Raznatovic (@vraznatovic)
1. The Real Opponent is the “Serbian World”
Opposition parties in Montenegro must acknowledge that their true adversary is not individual figures like Spajić, Milatović, Mandić, or Bečić but the organized machinery behind the "Serbian World" project. This entity wields significant financial resources, repressive mechanisms, and strategic influence, appointing politicians in Montenegro and steering their actions to serve Serbia's interests.
2. EU Integration and National Identity Are Separate Struggles
While the European Union and Western allies are ready to support Montenegro's path toward EU membership, they do not concern themselves with the issue of Montenegrin national identity. This responsibility falls solely on Montenegrin citizens and institutions, as no external power can resolve it for them.
3. The Role of the Church and Serbian Agencies in Political Maneuvering
Political structures aligned with the so-called “August 30 coalition” were handpicked by the Serbian Orthodox Church and Vučić to destabilize Montenegro’s political system.
With strong populist rhetoric, they aim to undermine democratic mechanisms, creating space for the dominance of Serbian state interests. Combating such populism requires not just arguments but innovative political and media strategies.
4. The Opposition Must Adapt to the New Political Reality
Opposition parties must revise their approaches and engage more directly with citizens.
Face-to-face contact, clear communication, and authentic political activity, including educating voters on recognizing manipulation, should become the cornerstone of future opposition efforts. Otherwise, citizens may remain passive observers or gravitate toward louder, populist narratives.
5. Unified Action of Intellectuals, Activists, and Citizens is Necessary
To defend the Constitution and key democratic principles, it is essential to involve all those who value civic Montenegro—ranging from prominent intellectuals to NGOs and ordinary citizens.
This broad alliance should serve as a bulwark against further erosion of state institutions.
6. Collaboration with Like-Minded Partners in the EU and Region
Montenegro must find allies within the European Union and the region who understand the complexity of its identity issue.
Such partners, even outside traditional diplomatic channels, can assist in lobbying and promoting Montenegro’s position, particularly regarding language and national identity, on a broader political stage.
7. The Illusion of Political Freedom Among Key Actors
While politicians like Milatović may sometimes appear independent, experience shows they are under immense pressure and manipulation, primarily from Belgrade but also other power centers.
This illusion of freedom quickly disappears when decisions of vital importance to Montenegro must be made, highlighting the vulnerability of the entire political process and individual actors.
8. The Short-Term Power of Populism Comes at a High Cost
Milatović’s quick return to positions he previously criticized demonstrates how appealing short-term populist tactics are to politicians while also showing how they undermine public trust and destabilize the political scene over the long term. Once lost, voter trust is difficult to regain.
9. Lessons from Previous Political Cycles
The cyclical nature of alliances, betrayals, and sudden reconciliations in Montenegrin politics reveals a serious deficit in principles.
Voters must become more aware and demand accountability, resisting false promises of “defending the people’s will” or “honest governance.”
10. The Way Forward: Unity and Determination
For Montenegro to break free from its current political impasse, a broad unity of all who share democratic, European, and pro-Montenegrin values is essential.
To achieve a significant political shift beyond securing a majority in future elections, there must be a readiness to react both institutionally and non-institutionally to any attempts to manipulate state and national interests—decisively and on a mass scale.
Vladan Ražnatović
Source: Portal Analitika