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The Sustainable Development Goals in Montenegro
The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in Montenegro:
Publication
01 July 2022
United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework Montenegro 2023-2027
Responding to national priorities, the UNSDCF 2023-2027 was developed as a joint commitment by the United Nations Country Team (UNCT) to accelerate progress towards the 2030 agenda and EU accession.
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Story
17 June 2022
Building immunity against the virus of hate
Hate speech on the rise
Today is the first time we mark the International Day for Countering Hate Speech. The UN General Assembly designated 18 June as such, after Secretary-general António Guterres raised alarm about the “tsunami of hate and xenophobia, scapegoating, stigmatization and the use of derogatory, misogynistic, racist, xenophobic, Islamophobic or antisemitic language”, that has engulfed the world.
We all witness how powerful the ‘tool’ of hate speech can be to incite discrimination, violence, deepen division and undermine social cohesion within or between societies.
Hate speech usually is an expression of denial. Denial of respect, of inclusion, of diversity. It goes against the very essence of human rights. If left unchecked, it can fuel tensions, social unrest, even start violent conflicts which can lead to grave human rights violations. It is particularly the case when hate speech is instrumentalized by influential people in our societies. Political and religious leaders play a key role in mitigating hate in society, especially among their own constituencies. Leaders who embrace inclusion giving space to all, who truly respect diversity and value differences of opinion will see their societies thrive. But we all have a responsibility to refrain from hate to express oneself. It starts with me and you. We must individually and collectively speak out against hate.
Online media - a megaphone for hate speech or free expression?
The spread of hatred is sadly nothing new, here in Montenegro or elsewhere. The scale and impact nowadays, especially with social media providing a global platform for spreading hate, is growing larger and faster than ever. Online hate speech is produced and distributed easily, at low cost, often anonymously, reaching global audiences in real time. This phenomenon is exposing the fragility of democracies worldwide. It has prompted calls for accountability of these platforms, for moderation and removal of offensive online content. This has raised debate about the boundaries between freedom of expression and censorship.
But countering hate speech does not mean arbitrarily limiting freedom of expression. It means preventing hatred from escalating into something dangerous, particularly incitement to discrimination, hostility, and violence, which – as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights says - shall be prohibited in law. The United Nations calls for more speech - not less. Freedom of expression is the norm; limiting it is the exception. But speech must be respectful of the rights and dignity of all, women, men, children, persons with disabilities, elderly, ethnic, religious and sexual minorities, among others. I welcome that Montenegro has taken legal action in cases of incitement to discrimination and violence. Swift action is key in all cases to bring justice to victims and stem further harm in society.
Hate speech and real harm
The weaponization of the public discourse for political gain is also not new. History has shown that hate speech leads to atrocity crimes. The Holocaust did not start with the gas chambers, but with hate speech. These lessons place a heavy responsibility on us all to address hate speech and prevent future harm.
Resilience to hatred
The UN’s Global Strategy and Action Plan on Hate Speech, launched in 2019, calls for a comprehensive approach to tackle the phenomenon. It calls for monitoring and understanding the dynamics of hate speech, for early warning, for support to national legislation to address hate speech. Prevention is a must. There, education is key, for it has the power to transform society and is a tool to address root causes and drivers of hate speech. Through education, we can promote peaceful, inclusive, and just societies for all, in line with the vision of the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals.
Digital and media literacy education is essential for all, and especially young people, to engage with media and other sources of information, instill responsibility and critical thinking when using and analyzing it. Through critical thinking we will reject and build immunity against the virus of hate.
Countering hate speech, no doubt, requires a system-wide response. We need to mobilize societies, and work even across borders.
As our UN Secretary-General said – “Hatred is a danger to everyone – and so fighting it must be a job for everyone.”
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Story
20 August 2021
Fighting misinformation: Pausing before you share helps save lives
Everybody knows somebody who shares misleading, emotionally charged, or questionable posts. What if that person was you and you didn’t know it?
Verified is encouraging the world to pause before you post. Studies show that by pausing before you share, you allow time to think about the information – where it comes from, whether it’s true, when it was written and why you are sharing it. This means you are less likely to spread misinformation.
People worldwide are helping spread our #PledgetoPause message across social media. By flooding timelines with this simple message, you can help people stop and think, and slow the spread of harmful misinformation.
According to a Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) study, seeing our Pause message on social media makes people significantly less likely to share misleading headlines.
There is reliable information online about COVID-19, but many sources are deliberately misleading, and others bend the truth just to get our attention. When misinformation spreads it becomes hard to contain – and every false share can have damaging consequences.
Post one of our share graphics on your timeline, get people’s attention, encourage them to pause before they post.
UNICEF Montenegro Q&As: Fact-checking COVID-19 information
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Story
12 November 2021
Deafening Alarm Bells
There is no longer any doubt that we have for decades been disturbing the ecological equilibrium of our planet and the time has now come to face these grim realities. Without any doubt, climate change is the greatest challenge humankind has ever faced. The science warns us that the climate crisis is now, and it is a “code red” for humanity.
The just closed Climate Conference in Glasgow COP 26 coincided with an important milestone on Montenegro’s development path – its 30th anniversary of declaring itself as an ecologic state. Nothing speaks more about the strength of such commitment than Montenegro’s determination to embed it into the heart of its Constitution.
When Montenegro chose to continue its development on a green path, 30 years ago, not many people had expected that, this green path would become the only way forward for all.
Only 3 decades later, the alarm bells of climate urgency are deafening, with evidence impossible to ignore: temperatures are reaching new highs; biodiversity is reaching new lows; oceans are warming, acidifying, and choking with plastic waste. Greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuel burning and deforestation are strangling our planet and putting billions of people at immediate and long-term risk, with many of the changes becoming irreversible. Each year we see extreme weather and climate disasters are increasing in frequency and intensity. And this summer, here in Montenegro was no exception with record number of forest fires.
The way out?
Five years ago, the Paris Agreement paved for humankind a clear way out of this crisis, pointing that limiting the temperature rise under the 1.5°C in this century is key. Unfortunately, scientists also warn that we are already close to reaching that threshold, which would mean reaching point of no return.
In order to prevent this from happening, the world needs to join forces around three critical aspects:
First, Mitigation – keep the 1.5°C goal within reach, by securing greater ambition from national governments and more net-zero commitments.
Secondly, Adaptation – to increase investment into adaptation from current 21% to at least 50% of the overall international climate finance.
Thirdly, the Financing – to reach an agreement on a delivery plan for the $100 billion per year, to improve access to financing and to progress on carbon markets.
The responsibility for this ambitious agenda lays with all of us, but primely with the national governments. It is the national leaders who bear responsibility for taking urgent steps to reduce emissions, mobilize funding, and boost resilience, and for delivering on the Paris Agreement.
National governments can and should greatly rely on United Nations to be a solid partner, convener, and an honest broker, who facilitates multilateral dialogue for national leaders to deliver a successful climate response. This is exactly what the UN is already doing. We have convened world leaders, top experts and scientist, activists as well as corporate leaders to the Climate Conference in Glasgow, for all of them to join forces for climate action.
It’s about making choices
Montenegro’s commitment to climate action is unequivocal. It’s evident in its recent commitment to cut Green House Gas emissions by 35% by 2030, with evidence and data collection supported by UNDP. However, we believe, there is potential to significantly reduce emissions even further, in the sectors of energy, transportation, and industry in Montenegro.
Montenegro, like many low Green House Emitting countries, have low contribution to the rising global temperatures. Despite that, it is, unfortunately, bound to face the consequences of climate change through its undesirable domino effect on human well-being, health, environment and economy. That is why we must turn our attention equally to adaptation and build a resilient future.
UN’s extended arm to Montenegro
Most of the action in climate response is to take place in the economic sectors and the experience tells us that climate-smart investments outweigh the upfront costs. Montenegro’s National Climate Adaptation Plan, supported by UNDP, with Global Climate Fund financing, is an opportunity to set the baseline for making smart adaptation investments.
Another huge potential lies with young people. We know that young people in Montenegro have strong ambitions to do their part and such ambitions must be met by opportunities. Three out of four respondents are ready to change their living habits, including walk every day, reduce waste, recycle and rationalize further use of water and electricity. It is high time to build on these commitments and positive engagement by the youth.
The United Nations in Montenegro also supports small and medium size enterprises, through UNOPS in cooperation with local authorities, this work ensures that neither side stay ignorant of environmental protection, helping them to understand that greening is not just about solar panels.
But sustainable solutions in combatting climate change is also about investing in human health. As we have painfully learned from COVID crisis, we need to adapt to orient towards long-term, strategic investments in our futures. WHO tells us that strategic investments in integrated public health and primary health-care systems, as well as mature digital systems, are necessary to be able to deliver on the promise of safe, effective and equitable health services for a post-COVID-19 era.
Recent analysis of climate risk from a child’s perspective shows that nearly every child in the world is at risk from at least one of climate and environmental hazards like flooding, cyclones, vector-borne diseases, lead pollution, heat waves and water scarcity. Air pollution is the biggest threat as one billion children are estimated to be highly exposed to exceedingly dangerous levels of air pollution. In the coming period, UNICEF will support Montenegro’s children and adolescents’ involvement on air pollution and other climate change issues in the country.
But while we focus on the potential work that must be done within Montenegro, we must also be aware of what happens around ourselves. UNHCR warns us that the effects of climate change are increasing hardship on people who are already among the world’s most vulnerable, including refugees. Drought and extreme weather will certainly drive-up competition for dwindling resources on global scale and have tremendous impact on forced displacement, not only on global scale, but will certainly have strong implications for our region and for Montenegro as well.
There’s no small contribution
By now, all countries should have clearly realized that the old, carbon-burning model of development is a death sentence for their economies and our planet. We need decarbonization now, across every sector in every country. We need to shift subsidies from fossil fuels to renewable energy, and tax pollution much more. We need to put a real price on carbon, and channel that back towards resilient infrastructures and sustainable jobs.
The United Nations was founded 76 years ago to build consensus for action against the greatest threats facing humanity. But we have never faced a crisis like this one – a truly existential crisis which, if not addressed properly, threatens the future of mankind. Like never before, the world needs solidarity and truly joint action to counter deafening alarm bells of climate urgency. And it needs it now.
And why is contribution of a small country like Montenegro so important for the climate response? The answer is simple, because, more than ever, the world needs positive examples of true transformation which can make a real difference. As Montenegro is now planning for its rapid economic recovery and create new opportunities for its citizens, the country has exceptional potentials for building a greener future, with greener jobs and a greener economy, and I am convinced that Montenegro can and will become a role model to the rest of the world on its green path moving forward – it just need to grab this historical opportunity, now.
Author is the UN Resident Coordinator in Montenegro
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Story
20 January 2023
Government contributes 1 million EUR to the Montenegro SDG Acceleration Fund
Podgorica, 20 January 2023
The Government of Montenegro took a step closer to Agenda 2030 by endorsing the Montenegro SDG Acceleration Fund and committing allocation of a million EUR into this new generation of financing tools aimed for pooling donor funds to be channelled towards development initiatives.
The UN-initiated Fund is designed to be major vehicle to support the country’s acceleration of Sustainable Development Goals implementation, as well as to support the country’s EU accession process.
By contributing to the Fund, Montenegro showed strong ownership over the implementation of Agenda 2030. According to Montenegrin Prime Minister Dritan Abazović, the Fund will be criticaly important for Montenegro's aspirations to meet country's commitments within the Agenda 2030.
“By supporting Agenda 2030, the Fund is a very important means of support to our EU integration process,” said Abazović, inviting bilateral partners to join the initiative and support the Fund.
Besides Government’s contribution, Montenegro SDG Acceleration Fund also attracted financial support from several other countries, including Luxembourg and Switzerland.
UN Resident Coordinator Peter Lundberg welcomed signing of this UN-pooled pooled funding mechanism, emphasizing that it comes in critical moment.
“Government’s endorsement of this important vehicle for Montenegro’s development is a strong signal of country’s commitment to implementation of Agenda for Sustainable Development by 2030. With eight years left till fulfilment of this universal development plan, Montenegro needs all our support to succeed on this time critical endeavor,” said Lundberg, expressing hope that other partner countries will join the Fund in a quest for sustainable development of Montenegro.
As a booster to country’s development on its way to EU, the Fund is set to support strategic initiatives in three priority areas of the Cooperation Framework between Montenegro and the United Nations for the period 2023-27:
inclusive economic development and environmental sustainability
human capital development, reducing vulnerability, social inclusion
social cohesion, people-centred governance, rule of law and human rights.
The Fund signed between the Government of Montenegro and the United Nations has been operational since the 1st January 2023, but the administrative and fundraising activities are ongoing for almost a year. It will be managed by the UN country team in close partnership with the Government, to secure full national commitment and long-term sustainability.
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Story
11 January 2023
A new journey towards better Montenegro
On 1 January 2023, Montenegro embarked on the implementation of the new UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) for the period 2023-2027, marking an important milestone in the country's journey towards achieving SDGs. New strategic development plan will be jointly implemented by 18 UN agencies in Montenegro and the Government of Montenegro, together with national and international partners.
The UNSDCF 2023-2027 for Montenegro is focused on supporting the country in three strategic areas of cooperation jointly identified by the UN and the Government based on the specific needs of the country:
inclusive economic development and environmental sustainability
human capital development, reducing vulnerability and social inclusion
social cohesion, people-centred governance, rule of law and human rights
The UN Resident Coordinator in Montenegro, Peter Lundberg, pointed out vast potentials which different UN organisations bring to support the country, stating that "the SDCF presents an opportunity for the UN to support Montenegro in its efforts to accelerate the implementation of the SDGs and to achieve the vision of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development."
The UNSDCF 2023-2027 is highly complementary to the EU accession process of the country, as both agendas aim to enhance country’s sustainable development and support its economic growth.
"The UNSDCF is closely aligned with the EU accession process and supports the Government of Montenegro in its efforts to implement the EU acquis," said Mr. Lundberg praising Montenegro for proactively endorsing Agenda 2030 from its early days, and for the results achieved so far.
Strong link between two major development processes was also emphasized by the Prime Minister of Montenegro Dritan Abazović who emphasized the importance of the joint UN-Montenegro development plan for the period 2023-2027, stating that "Agenda 2030 for Montenegro is of particular importance, considering that it accelerates fulfillment of obligations from the EU agenda bearing in mind that the two processes are to the greatest extent complementary.”
Joining forces will be critical for UNSDCF implementation. As Mr. Lundberg noted, "the SDCF provides a roadmap for the UN and the Government of Montenegro to work together to accelerate the implementation of the SDGs, but it is only through the commitment and support of all stakeholders that we can hope to achieve the ambitious goals of the 2030 Agenda. We will need to work together to mobilize the necessary resources, both financial and human, to support the implementation of the UNSDCF and the achievement of the SDGs."
The UNSDCF 2023-2027 for Montenegro is an ambitious plan and the strong foundation for SDGs acceleration in the country as well as for reaching its national priorities, primarily EU accession. By working together on its implementation in the next 5 years, the UN team and the Government, together with partners, will be joining forces to build a more sustainable, inclusive, and prosperous future for all the citizens of Montenegro.
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09 December 2022
Sustainable Development: Cooperation is the Key
Budva, 8 december 2022
The Regional Conference “Sustainable Development in the Western Balkans”, co-organized by ReSPA and the United Nations of Montenegro, under the patronage of the Government of Montenegro, provided a high-level regional platform for discussing the sustainable development.
The Conference shed a light on the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals and the 2030 Agenda as an opportunity to significantly improve the social, economic and environmental aspects of life in the Western Balkans.
Prime Minister Dritan Abazović, UN Resident Coordinator in Montenegro Peter Lundberg, Head of Cooperation of the EU Delegation to Montenegro Yngve Engstrom, UN Regional Director for Europe Gwi-Yeop Son, and many other highly-relevant actors and policy-makers from the Western Balkans, senior public servants from the Region, EU experts and representatives of the United Nations shared their views on different practical solutions on how to bring the Western Balkans closer in the achievement of SDGs.
The importance of the sustainable development for the Western Balkans was especially highlighted by Prime Minister Abazović who outlined that “if there is a topic in the region that brings entire region together, it is the sustainable development and SDGs. All citizens in the region want clean rivers and air, inclusion, and a better quality of life, as their peer citizens in the EU. Let the sustainable development be a point of unification and reconciliation of the region. I am an optimist that the positive contribution of our region can extend beyond borders of the region”, emphasized Prime Minister Abazović.
The UN Resident Coordinator in Montenegro, Peter Lundberg, emphasized the importance of partnership and dialogue for solving the complexities of sustainable development.
"Achieving sustainable development is the task we all have to deliver on. Climate change, poverty and inequalities are challenges that span across borders. And, if the challenges span across borders, we need to create space where solutions and knowledge also have no border. The United Nations remain a reliable partner to Montenegro in sharing excellent results achieved so far, but also to move progressively forward, because sustainable development is the game where we have to succeed," says Lundberg.
ReSPA Director Maja Handjiska Trendafilova outlined that public administration features more prominently in the Sustainable Development Goals, which indicates the growing importance of a resilient public sector which correlates with ReSPA’s mission and objectives.
“This Conference opened a pathway for more concrete actions of the Western Balkans in meeting the Sustainable Development Goals. ReSPA has been supporting the Region in ensuring responsive, inclusive, and representative policy-making and upholding the principles of good administration. We are honoured to enable a regional platform for sharing emerging lessons in implementing the 2030 Agenda, focusing on the priorities for accelerated progress in meeting SDGs and ways to strengthen coordination and synergies with relevant intergovernmental processes and start thinking beyond 2030,“ said Handjiska Trendafilova.
Deputy Ministers and State Secretaries from the Administrations of the Western Balkans discussed during the High-Level Policy Dialogue Panel on Improving SDG Coordination, from institutional setup to implementing and monitoring sustainable development policies in the Region. Officials shared good practices from their home administrations and exchanged views on how to boost the political dimension of SDGs.
Yngve Engstorm, Head of the Department for Cooperation in the EU Delegation to Montenegro, pointed out that Montenegro is in the phase of the accession process, which requires continuous efforts in several areas, as well as the involvement and cooperation between different actors.
"This implies a broad political and social consensus on key reforms in building a healthier, fairer and more prosperous society. That is why we need to adopt a holistic approach and build synergies between the implementation of sustainable development goals and EU accession negotiations, especially bearing in mind the limited financial resources and administrative capacities across the Western Balkans six", said Engstorm.
Development Coordination Office Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia, Gwi-Yeop Sun, commended Montenegro for hosting the platform for discussion on very relevant topics related to sustainable development in the Western Balkans. Despite grim outlooks as the Sustainable Development Goals are slipping out of reach, Ms. Sun emphasised that „strengthening partnerships can halt the regression. We know that exchanges such as the Western Balkans Conference led to positive results, more cooperation and coordination for the benefit of us all. We know that cross-border collaboration and exchange of knowledge will lead to more prominent results for us all.“
The Conference, designed as a participatory and discussion forum, also tackled numerous essential topics, such as complementary interlinkages between the Agenda 2030 and EU policies and accession, the Voluntary National Reviews process in the Western Balkans, financing and localization of SDGs and how to make sustainable development closer to the people and broaden partnerships. Also, some of the important topics discussed were the importance of monitoring progress and SDG mid-term review.
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09 December 2022
Silencing hate
Podgorica, 8 December 2022
Dealing with hate speech was the central theme of the panel discussion "Silencing Hate" organized by the United Nations system ahead of International Human Rights Day, 10 December.
People who were targeted by hate speech because of who they are, what they do or because of the perception that they are different, shared their experiences. Panelists and audience discussed possibille joint actions in facing the challenges that hate speech brings.
The UN Resident Coordinator in Montenegro Peter Lundberg, pointed out that Montenegro is experiencing an increase in hate speech and added that it is not the only country facing this problem.
“Unfortunately, we are witnessing the global growth of misinformation, fake news and divisive narratives that lead directly to discrimination, hate speech and even hate crimes. The scale and impact today, especially with social media as a global platform for spreading hate, is greater and growing faster than ever. This is why the United Nations adopted the Global Strategy and Action Plan on Hate Speech in 2019, within which we strive to, in cooperation with partners, take actions aimed at combating hate speech. Because the fight against hate speech is the job of all of us," said Lundberg, stating that fighting hate speech does not represent limiting freedom of expression in an arbitrary or illegal way, but preventing hatred from escalating into discrimination, hostility and violence.
The Minister of Human and Minority Rights, Fatmir Đeka, pointed out that Montenegro strives to maintain its European path and to improve respect for human rights as well as to persevere in strengthening tolerance and acceptance of diversity.
"Hate speech should be reduced every day, by turning to content which can contribute to our further education, general culture, raising awareness of essential things. By repeating what has been said, we give additional importance to negative streams.We need to continuously suppress negative phenomena in society. The catalysts of every change, good or bad, are we, ourselves," Đeka said.
The audience heard testimonies of panelists who were exposed to various forms of hate speech, among which were members of the Roma community, the LGBT community, persons with disabilities, women and others who were targeted by the hate speech.
"I'm afraid we're normalizing hate speech and that's what worries me a lot. Hate speech is, above all, humiliation and persecution of those who are different, and it is high time for this topic to be opened seriously," said Sabina Talović from Pljevlja, who was a victim of hate speech.
Human Rights Day is commemorated every year on 10 December 1948, when the UN General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Since then, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights has been the basis for a growing system that promotes and protects the rights of all people in the world.
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Story
20 December 2022
Keeping Sustainable Development high on the national agenda
Budva, 8 December 2022
Recognising the activities within the work programme and the expected role of the National Council in contributing to the achievement of the goals of sustainable development in Montenegro, members of the National Council proposed to once again consider upgrading the position and status of the Office for Sustainable Development to the secretariat of the National Council.
The session emphasised the role of educational institutions, through the synergy of formal and informal education. The involvement of young people was supported through their proactive role in all working advisory bodies of the Government. It was emphasised that financing for sustainable development and sustainable development at the local level should have more significant support, which is foreseen through the work of expert working groups and the Work Programme of the National Council.
According to the agenda, six expert working groups were formed at today's session, namely for monitoring the implementation of sustainable development policy, mitigation and adaptation to climate change, integral management of the coastal area of Montenegro, sustainable development at the local level, financing for sustainable development and just transition. The goal of this model of functioning of the National Council is to establish an open forum for professional supervision and guidance in the creation and implementation of development policies and projects based on the principles of sustainable development.
The mid-term work programme of the National Council, proposed at the session, defines a series of activities within the priority topics that will be dealt with in the coming period, which relate to accelerating the process of implementing the goals of sustainable development, just transition, climate change, financing of sustainable development, education and promotion of concept of sustainable development and strengthening partnerships, especially at the international level.
Furthermore, according to the work programme, the National Council will plan events, conferences, workshops, media and other activities, in order to make the public aware of key development challenges and to enable the wider community of experts, i.e. all relevant stakeholders, to proactively get involved in defining solutions to new developments and social challenges in the country.
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Press Release
20 May 2022
Further strengthening cooperation with the Parliament of Montenegro
Podgorica, 19 May 2022
The Parliament Speaker of Montenegro, Danijela Đurović, met with the UN Resident Coordinator in Montenegro, Peter Lundberg.
Thanking for the strong support of the UN to the reform agenda of our country, President Đurović emphasized that Montenegro highly appreciates the good cooperation and support of the UN system through active action in numerous areas, and expressed readiness to improve the partnership in the future by concretizing defined initiatives. and launching new joint projects.
Pointing to the continuity of the political dialogue that our country has with the highest officials from the UN system, the Parliament Speaker reaffirmed Montenegro's strong commitment to fundamental UN values and respect for the Charter and international obligations, as well as achieving the goals defined in the 2030 Agenda. dedicated to preserving peace, security, development and protection of human rights.
Referring to the issues of social inclusion, such as those that are in the center of UN policy, Djurovic emphasized that this issue, through her previous personal engagement in the Women's Club and the Gender Equality Committee, is one of the priorities of her further activities. She also said that through previous analyzes of the mentioned parliamentary bodies, it was clearly recognized that good practices of the UN system could significantly contribute to defining some future quality solutions in this area. In that context, she reminded of the importance of raising quotas, which would ensure the participation of women in parliamentary life, in the percentage of 40 percent.
The Parliament Speaker also warned that, in that context, she is significantly concerned about the increase of hate speech, primerely on social networks, but also in public discourse in general, which is recognized as a problem that must be solved by adequate legislation in a way that would guarantee media freedoms and the right to copyright.
Speaking about the importance and role of the Parliament as an important segment of political life, but also the challenges facing the new parliamentary majority, Djurovic reminded of the importance of encouraging and initiating political dialogue, the need to pass laws on the Parliament and the Government, focusing on electoral legislation political actors, and securing the necessary majority for key appointments in the judiciary. She expressed the expectation that, in overcoming all these challenges, "there will be enough political maturity to reach the main goal, which is the European perspective of Montenegro."
UN Resident Coordinator in Montenegro Peter Lundberg congratulated Ms. Đurović on her election for a Speaker of the Parliament of Montenegro and stressed that he is always encouraged by the appointment of women to leading positions in the country.
He stressed out the importance of continuous and very constructive cooperation between Montenegro and the United Nations, emphasizing his expectation that this cooperation will be further strengthened through the upcoming five-year Strategic Framework for Cooperation for the period 2023-2027.
"Through cooperation in the strategic areas of the five-year framework, the UN system will continue to support Montenegro in achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and meeting national priorities, primarily EU accession," said Lundberg.
He emphasizing that the achievement of these goals must be preceded by progress in the fields of environment through ecological transformation, social inclusion and social protection, but also strengthening the rule of law, independent institutions and guaranteeing social equality for all
Noting that hate speech is a global problem, Lundberg pointed out that "it is necessary to fight against hate in all segments of life."
The Resident Coordinator reiterated the UN's firm commitment to continuing and further strengthening cooperation with Parliament and the Government within the Organisation’s mandate, expressing readiness to offer necessary expertise and experience.
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Press Release
29 March 2022
Strong consensus on key priorities of future cooperation
The President of Montenegro, Milo Đukanović, met with the Resident Coordinator of the UN System in the country, Peter Lundberg, to discuss cooperation between Montenegro and the UN, as well as current internal and regional issues.
The President expressed satisfaction and gratitude to Mr. Lundberg for initiating the meeting, expressing hope that the cooperation with institutions in Montenegro is going well in times of emergency, both externally and internally. He reiterated Montenegro's absolute commitment to the UN values and the UN Charter, as well as the country’s strong commitment to multilateralism, as confirmed during recent meetings with the UN Secretary-General Guterres and Under-Secretary Di Carlo. The President emphasized that Montenegro is very keen on cooperation with the UN Office and agencies in the country, emphasizing that we are in a very important period of defining the 5-year framework for cooperation for the period 2023-2027, which requires competencies and functional institutions in Montenegro capable to responsibly and efficiently respond to the needs of further cooperation. In the spirit of that commitment, the President expressed hope for a soon election of a new government, so that system is in place for strengthening cooperation with the UN.
The UN Resident Coordinator in Montenegro was very pleased with the meeting, expressing high appreciation for Montenegro's active involvement in the human rights system and its role in the Human Rights Council. Lundberg stressed full readiness of the UN system to support Montenegro in the process of fulfilling its obligations in this area, which is also important for the European integration process which is largely compatible with the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda.
Expressing gratitude for continuous partnership, Mr Lundberg informed the President about the development of the next strategic plan for cooperation, which builds upon excellent cooperation between Montenegro and the UN system in the previous 5-year cycle which mobilized funds worth $ 70 million to support sustainable development. Lundberg stressed that the priorities of the 5-year framework of cooperation include strengthening social cohesion, overcoming divisions, and combating hate speech underlining that, with the UN's impartial role, an important partnership can be achieved, especially with the groups such as youth and women.
Reaffirming his commitment to human rights as a priority in cooperation with the UN and satisfaction with the renewed country's membership in the Human Rights Council, the President agreed with the envisaged priorities of the future framework of cooperation, emphasizing that social cohesion is a very important task of responsible state policy. While noting that certain progress has been achieved in that area, he emphasized that there is room for progress, but also expressed concern over the brutal offensive of nationalist political narratives for which do not aim toward emancipation and Europeanization. Regretting that we are going through such phases, he expressed optimism in continuing the strategic direction of movement through the adoption of the European value system.
UN Resident Coordinator thanked the President for the detailed and open analysis of the current situation in the region and Europe, and expressed full support for Montenegro's European path in line with the common goals of the UN Sustainable Development Agenda.
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Press Release
10 December 2021
Free speech: cornerstone of democracy, but not excuse for spreading hate speech
“All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights.” Although seemingly simple and straightforward, article 1 of the Universal Human Rights Declaration remains a far cry for many. Discrimination but also other violations of fundamental human rights remain a reality for too many people around the world today.
Respect for the human rights of all is fundamental for sustainable peace and inclusive development. This was so the case in 1948, when the Universal Declaration was adopted, and it remains so today. In his Call to Action for Human Rights last year, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres reiterated that human rights are essential to addressing the causes and impact of today's complex crises, and to building sustainable, safe, and peaceful societies.
In tackling the challenges we face, everyone’s opinion and criticism count. Everyone deserves space to express views freely and without fear, though – as international human rights law states – with respect for the special duties and responsibilities this freedom carries, one of which is respect for the rights of others. Here we have noted a challenge, one that is not unique to Montenegro: hate speech. We have observed hate speech based on ethnicity, national identity, gender, disability, sexual orientation, political or religious affiliation. It denigrates, dehumanizes, discriminates and excludes. It has led to a few hate crimes. Hate speech can threaten peaceful societies as the Special Adviser on the Prevention Genocide, who leads the UN in tackling the phenomenon and who visited Montenegro in November, often warns about.
On the occasion of International Human Rights Day, the UN Country Team in Montenegro calls for more rather than less speech to counter the challenge that hate speech presents to our societies. We call for speech that shows full respect for the humanity and dignity of the other. And we ask leaders, may they be political, religious or otherwise, but also those who have influence, like traditional and the online media, to serve as examples. Let us all use this essential freedom for what it is meant – to create free, open, respectful societies in which everyone has an opportunity to take part, makes their voice heard and to ultimately contribute to a better life for all.
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Press Release
17 November 2021
OHCHR: Symbols glorifying convicted war criminals should have no place in the public space
Spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights: Liz Throssell
Location: Geneva
Date: 12 November 2021 We are concerned at events this week in the Serbian capital, Belgrade, where police stepped in to protect a mural of the convicted war criminal Ratko Mladic painted on a building in the city centre. The mural in Belgrade is not an isolated incident. Posters, graffiti, other materials and statements praising war criminals are found in other parts of Serbia, as well as in various towns in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Montenegro and elsewhere in the region. Symbols glorifying convicted war criminals should have no place in the public space. Such symbols are all the more concerning given the recent rise in hate speech and denial of genocide and other atrocity crimes in the Western Balkans – developments that highlight the failure to address the past. The situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina is particularly worrying, where such trends are deepening divisions. We call on the authorities in the region to abide by their international human rights obligations to ensure the rights to truth, justice and reparation, as well as to adopt measures to prevent recurrence and to promote further reconciliation efforts. We call on them to condemn and refrain from all forms of hate speech and incitement to violence and to ensure the perpetrators of such acts are held accountable. The UN Human Rights Office stands ready to continue offering its guidance on human rights issues to help people in the Western Balkans move forward with the transitional justice processes that are so crucial for the region’s future. For more information and media requests, please contact:
Rupert Colville + 41 22 917 9767 / rupert.colville@un.org or
Ravina Shamdasani - + 41 22 917 9169 / ravina.shamdasani@un.org or
Liz Throssell + 41 22 917 9296 / elizabeth.throssell@un.org or
Marta Hurtado - + 41 22 917 9466 / marta.hurtadogomez@un.org Tag and share
Twitter @UNHumanRights
Facebook unitednationshumanrights
Instagram @unitednationshumanrights Originaly posted on OHCHR website
Location: Geneva
Date: 12 November 2021 We are concerned at events this week in the Serbian capital, Belgrade, where police stepped in to protect a mural of the convicted war criminal Ratko Mladic painted on a building in the city centre. The mural in Belgrade is not an isolated incident. Posters, graffiti, other materials and statements praising war criminals are found in other parts of Serbia, as well as in various towns in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Montenegro and elsewhere in the region. Symbols glorifying convicted war criminals should have no place in the public space. Such symbols are all the more concerning given the recent rise in hate speech and denial of genocide and other atrocity crimes in the Western Balkans – developments that highlight the failure to address the past. The situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina is particularly worrying, where such trends are deepening divisions. We call on the authorities in the region to abide by their international human rights obligations to ensure the rights to truth, justice and reparation, as well as to adopt measures to prevent recurrence and to promote further reconciliation efforts. We call on them to condemn and refrain from all forms of hate speech and incitement to violence and to ensure the perpetrators of such acts are held accountable. The UN Human Rights Office stands ready to continue offering its guidance on human rights issues to help people in the Western Balkans move forward with the transitional justice processes that are so crucial for the region’s future. For more information and media requests, please contact:
Rupert Colville + 41 22 917 9767 / rupert.colville@un.org or
Ravina Shamdasani - + 41 22 917 9169 / ravina.shamdasani@un.org or
Liz Throssell + 41 22 917 9296 / elizabeth.throssell@un.org or
Marta Hurtado - + 41 22 917 9466 / marta.hurtadogomez@un.org Tag and share
Twitter @UNHumanRights
Facebook unitednationshumanrights
Instagram @unitednationshumanrights Originaly posted on OHCHR website
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Press Release
07 September 2021
Montenegro: UN expert on sale and exploitation of children to visit 8-16 September
GENEVA (6 September 2021) - The UN Special Rapporteur on the sale and sexual exploitation of children, Mama Fatima Singhateh, will conduct an official visit to Montenegro from 8 to 16 September 2021.
The expert has been mandated by the UN Human Rights Council to conduct country visits and promote strategies to prevent and combat the sale and sexual exploitation of children and to make recommendations for the care, recovery and reintegration into society of child victims.
Mama Fatima Singhateh will address thematic issues such as protection of children against sexual exploitation and sexual abuse involving information and communication technologies, child marriage, sexual exploitation of children in travel and tourism, trafficking of children for sexual exploitation, exploitation of children living in the streets, and the sale of children through illegal adoptions.
During her eight-day visit, the UN expert will travel to Podgorica, Bijela, Spuz and other municipalities. She will meet representatives of the executive, legislature and judiciary, local and municipal authorities, civil society organizations, members of the international community, and children.
At the end of her visit, on Thursday 16 September 2021, the UN expert will share her preliminary observations at a press conference at 12:00 noon local time at the UN Eco House, at Blue Room, Stanka Dragojevica bb, 81000, Podgorica. Access to the press conference will be strictly limited to journalists.
The Special Rapporteur will present a comprehensive report at a forthcoming session of the UN Human Rights Council.
ENDS
Ms. Mama Fatima Singhateh (The Gambia) was appointed as the UN Special Rapporteur on sale and sexual exploitation of children by the UN Human Rights Council in March 2020. She is a trained lawyer with almost 20 years of experience. Ms Singhateh has held a number of high-level positions in public service in the Gambia. She holds a master’s degree in International Business Law from the University of Hull and has undergone numerous trainings in child rights programming, arbitration and mediation, and legislative drafting. She has drafted laws, organized and conducted numerous training sessions, delivered presentations at both national and international fora and written articles and reports on issues relating to the promotion and protection of the rights of the child.
The Special Rapporteurs are part of what is known as the Special Procedures of the Human Rights Council. Special Procedures, the largest body of independent experts in the UN Human Rights system, is the general name of the Council's independent fact-finding and monitoring mechanisms that address either specific country situations or thematic issues in all parts of the world. Special Procedures experts work on a voluntary basis; they are not UN staff and do not receive a salary for their work. They are independent from any government or organisation and serve in their individual capacity.
UN Human Rights, Country Page – Montenegro
For more information and media requests, please contact: In Montenegro (during the visit) : Ms. Marina Narvaez Guarnieri (+ 41 079 201 01 23/marina.narvaezguarnieri@un.org); or Ms. Anjet Lanting (+382 69 332 004 /anjet.lanting@un.org). In Geneva (before or during the visit): Ms. Shushan Khachyan (+41 76 615 04 03 / shushan.khachyan@un.org) or write to srsaleofchildren@ohchr.org.
For media inquiries related to other UN independent experts please contact: Mr. Jeremy Laurence, UN Human Rights – Media Unit (+41 22 917 9383 / jlaurence@ohchr.org)
Follow news related to the UN’s independent human rights experts on Twitter @UN_SPExperts.
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