A refugee couple found safety in Montenegro

A couple who lived in Montenegro for two years has found a new home away from their country of origin. Marko, 30, and Maria, 26, both doctors, have settled into their new lives since 2022.

Upon arriving in Montenegro, they were immediately struck by the atmosphere of safety and tranquillity. Their cultural experience was fascinating and marked the beginning of their new journey.

“I live an ordinary life here,” Maria shares. “We love to have coffee breaks after work, and then we study for our specialisation. Things are going great for us.”

The couple has made many friends in Montenegro, who have helped them immensely. Their landlords and neighbours have extended warmth and kindness, making them feel at home. “They told us – we are here to help you with everything,” Marko recalls.

When Marko and Maria first arrived in Montenegro, they received tremendous assistance from UNHCR. Besides free legal aid, UNHCR staff accompanied them throughout the entire asylum process. “We felt that both UNHCR and Montenegro’s institutions were with us throughout this journey of making Montenegro our new home. Without UNHCR’s assistance, we would not have been able to kickstart our new lives in this beautiful country,” Marko says.

Both Maria and Marko are paediatricians waiting for their diplomas to be recognised so they can work in their profession. In the meantime, Maria works in a restaurant, while Marko works in the printing sector. At the same time, they continue learning the Montenegrin language.

Their gratitude towards Montenegro is immense, as Marko expresses, “We want to give something back to this country out of gratitude for accepting us and giving us safety. This is a safe country where we can start a family.”

Marko remembers reflecting on their asylum interview, “When we were interviewed for asylum by authorities, they asked us what we needed in Montenegro. We said – peace. We have found peace, which is why we are still in Montenegro. “