Council Decision of 22 January 2007 on the principles, priorities and conditions contained in the European Partnership with Montenegro (2007/49/EC)

Democracy and the rule of law

Constitutional issues

• Fully implement the new constitution adopted in line with European standards.

Elections

• Continue providing for high standards regarding the organisation of elections; enforce a transparent framework for campaign financing.

Parliament

• Continue strengthening the capacity of the parliament in all areas, in particular in relation to the adoption of the EU acquis.

Public administration

• Further strengthen European integration units in the relevant ministries and coordination mechanisms on EU matters including on SAA and IPA.

• Develop principles, procedures and relevant administrative capacity in view of establishing a decentralised implementation system for management of EU assistance in line with EU requirements.

• Further strengthen the authority for human resources management. Strengthen policy-making process. Continue implementing decentralisation reform.

• Further strengthen transparent recruitment, professionalism and accountability, including through codes of ethics and guidelines.

• Continue the process of restructuring and reform of the armed forces, including, as appropriate, reducing their numbers.

Judicial system

• Ensure adequate functioning of the judicial training centre. Implement the IT strategy for the judiciary.

• Complete the strategic framework for judicial reform; implement the reform plans; implement transparent recruitment and career management procedures; continue upgrading the resources of the judicial system.

• Continue upgrading the efficiency of the prosecution system.

• Continue upgrading the capacity of the Ministry of Justice for international judicial cooperation.

Anti-corruption policy

• Continue with determination the prevention of and fight against corruption at all levels, and provide increased means for prevention and suppression of corruption. Ensure full compliance with the UN Convention on the fight against corruption and with the relevant Council of Europe conventions.

• Establish effective procedures for the detection, treatment and follow-up of cases of suspected fraud and other irregularities affecting national and international funds, including EU funds.

Human rights and the protection of minorities

• Implement the anti-discrimination legislation and legislation on minority rights.

• Continue improving prison conditions.

• Prevent and address ill-treatment by enforcement agencies.

• Ensure the inclusion of disabled or minority children in mainstream education; reform the childcare system.

• Continue to promote integration of minorities and good inter-ethnic relations.

• Continue cooperation with NGOs at government and municipal level.

Regional issues and international obligations

• Facilitate integration for refugees who choose not to return. Implement the national strategy on refugees as part of a comprehensive strategy on social inclusion and social integration.

• Continue implementing regional cooperation arrangements.