Can Montenegro become the first nation to join the European Union by 2028?
In short: Montenegro is currently leading the race for European Union membership, aiming to finalize its accession by 2028. Having opened all 33 negotiating chapters, the country is now navigating the final stages of reform. This ambitious timeline positions the nation as a potential pioneer for a new, two-tier integration model.
Montenegro’s journey toward the European Union began in earnest following its 2006 separation from the State Union of Serbia and Montenegro. Since formally applying for membership in 2008 and launching accession negotiations in 2012, the country has undergone extensive structural reforms. By June 2024, Podgorica successfully met critical interim benchmarks in the judiciary and fundamental rights sectors, a prerequisite for closing other chapters of the negotiation process.
As of August 2026, Montenegro has provisionally closed 18 of its 33 negotiating chapters. The process has accelerated significantly since 2022, spurred by a renewed geopolitical focus on enlargement. To meet the final requirements, the Montenegrin Parliament adopted constitutional amendments in August 2026, specifically targeting the independence of the Central Bank and the structure of the Judicial and Prosecutorial Councils. These changes were coordinated directly with the European Commission to satisfy obligations under Chapters 17 and 23.
The path forward involves an experimental approach. EU officials are currently drafting an accession treaty, with some diplomats suggesting it may mirror up to 85 percent of the treaty used for Croatia. A notable proposal involves a two-tier membership structure, which would grant Montenegro entry while potentially limiting its veto powers. Meanwhile, the country faces unique practical hurdles, including the linguistic challenge of distinguishing Montenegrin from Croatian for the purpose of official EU translation services.
Public sentiment remains a strong driver for this integration. Surveys from 2025 indicate that over 80 percent of citizens view EU membership as beneficial, with high levels of trust in the bloc. With the support of leaders like French President Emmanuel Macron, Montenegro is currently positioned at the forefront of the EU’s enlargement strategy, aiming to conclude its long-standing integration efforts within the next two years.
Opens the Intellect+ feed with this card first. Swipe up for the next one.
Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Accession of Montenegro to the European Union
To cite this card, link to https://intellectplus.co.uk/app/places-accession-of-montenegro-to-the-european-union.
How we source, check and correct cards: Editorial standards.
General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.
Intellect Plus is a visual educational discovery platform for exploring fascinating facts and ideas. Brain Food, Not Brain Rot. What is Intellect Plus?
Related
More in Countries and other regions · More in Countries & Cities · Latest · A–Z · All topics
