Montenegro’s President Jakov Milatović used his appearance at the United Nations General Assembly in New York to deliver a strong message about the need to reform the country’s immigration and labor policies. Milatović said Montenegro must “prioritize jobs and housing for its own citizens” as rising numbers of foreign residents drive up property prices and limit opportunities for young Montenegrins.
Foreign Influx Driving Up Housing Costs and Rents
President Milatović noted that a growing foreign population in Montenegro has pushed housing prices and rents to record highs, making it increasingly difficult for young people, including students, to support themselves.
“Apartment square meter prices have become a luxury, rents have skyrocketed. Many young people are left without the chance to earn a living for themselves and their families,” Milatović said, urging a serious public debate on immigration policy.
Criticism of Patronage and Lack of Meritocracy
Milatović also linked the issue to broader social injustice. He criticized the months-long deadlock in the appointment of Constitutional Court judges, saying that “party membership counts more than knowledge and integrity.” According to him, the same culture dominates the labor market, where connections and political deals outweigh diplomas and hard work. “This is not the country we are fighting for; this system drives our people away,” he said.
“We Must Bring Back the Talent We Have Lost”
The President stressed that Montenegro has already lost thousands of young, talented professionals—engineers, doctors, teachers, and entrepreneurs—who were educated in Montenegro but left due to a sense of injustice and lack of opportunities.
“They did not leave only because of unemployment or low wages, but mainly because of political patronage and unfair practices that gave them no chance. Our obligation is to create conditions for these people to return. This is the greatest capital Montenegro can gain,” Milatović said.
A Responsible Immigration Policy
Milatović concluded his speech by calling for an immigration policy that is responsible and fair.
“It’s time to finish the job—ensure jobs and housing first for our citizens, then open space for foreigners, and actively try to bring back those who have left. That is the strength of a responsible state and the true measure of success: a better life for every citizen,” he stated.
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