Montenegro, a small Balkan country of just over 650,000 people, is witnessing unprecedented civic protests. For years, observers deemed Montenegrin society largely apathetic, with power concentrated in the hands of entrenched political elites. That perception changed on January 1, 2025, when a tragic mass killing in Cetinje left 13 people dead, including children. Shocked by this incident—and unsatisfied with the official response—students and other citizens organized peaceful demonstrations.
The Spark: Tragedy in Cetinje
The mass killing in Cetinje was a national trauma. Citizens questioned whether the government and security institutions had taken necessary precautions, calling for accountability. An informal student group calling itself “Kamo śutra” quickly emerged as the face of this new civic movement. United by grief and anger, protesters demanded the resignation of key officials in the security sector, stricter gun control measures, and increased support for mental health services.
Parallel to Protests in Serbia
Notably, these Montenegrin protests are unfolding in parallel with widespread anti-government demonstrations in neighboring Serbia, where thousands have been rallying against President Aleksandar Vučić. While the triggers differ—Serbian protests began primarily over broader governance issues and media control—both movements reflect a growing frustration with political elites in the Western Balkans.
A Pro-Vučić Coalition in Montenegro
Complicating matters is Montenegro’s current ruling coalition, viewed by critics as pro-Vučić and aligned with Serbian interests. Despite Montenegro’s NATO membership and aspirations for European Union integration, the government includes parties and political figures who openly sympathize with Serbia’s leadership. This alignment raises concerns that the Montenegrin administration might prioritize external alliances over local demands for democratic reform.
Why These Protests Matter
Accountability and Transparency
The tragedy in Cetinje exposed what many see as systemic problems in Montenegro’s governance and security apparatus. By demanding the resignations of top officials, the protesters are signaling that no officeholder is above scrutiny.Resistance to Foreign Influence
Alongside calls for accountability, demonstrators worry about deeper geopolitical undercurrents. Montenegro, having separated from Serbia in 2006, continues to grapple with Serbian political influence and, by extension, Russia’s strategic interests in the Western Balkans.Civic Awakening
The fact that students—traditionally seen as detached from formal politics—are at the forefront signals a reawakening of Montenegrin civil society. Many young people see the protests as a turning point that could shift the country’s trajectory toward genuine democratic governance.
A Broader Battle for Democracy
Montenegro’s protests may be modest in size compared to mass movements elsewhere, yet they resonate beyond its borders. In a region historically plagued by ethno-political divisions and outside interference, any surge of grassroots activism holds significance. The parallel demonstrations in Serbia show that citizen engagement is rising throughout the Balkans, challenging longstanding political structures.
International Relevance
For foreign observers, these protests offer insight into the Western Balkans’ complex dynamics. Montenegro’s strategic position—on NATO’s southeastern flank and on the path to EU membership—means that what happens there can ripple across the region. Successful pushback against malign influence and government inaction could bolster pro-democracy movements elsewhere, demonstrating that even smaller nations can safeguard their institutions.
What’s Next?
While the “Kamo śutra” protests have captured national attention, their long-term impact remains uncertain. Much hinges on whether the ruling coalition, with its pro-Vučić leanings, will concede to demands for transparent investigations, improved gun control, and institutional reforms. If they do not, further unrest or deeper political realignments could follow.
Ultimately, Montenegro stands at a crossroads. The Cetinje tragedy and the subsequent student-led demonstrations show a society unwilling to be silent any longer. Whether these protests can spark enduring change or become just another footnote in Balkan history will depend on continued civic resolve—and the willingness of those in power to heed the call for a safer, more accountable Montenegro.