Montenegro's Government Pushes Bold Reforms Despite Fragile Majority

Prime Minister Luís Montenegro has outlined his government's achievements and future plans in a recent address. He highlighted major reforms in housing, taxation, and labour laws while addressing challenges in immigration and education. The speech came as his coalition continues to govern without an absolute majority in parliament.

Montenegro's administration, formed by the PSD/CDS-PP alliance and supported by Chega, has passed key legislation with narrow but consistent backing. Despite holding only 151 of 230 seats, the government has pushed through three contentious bills with identical 151-to-79 votes, demonstrating its ability to function effectively despite opposition. The prime minister began by stressing economic relief for citizens. Over two years, his government has returned more than €2 billion through tax cuts. He also noted that no taxes had been raised in the last two state budgets, a move aimed at easing financial pressure on households.

On wages and pensions, Montenegro pointed to increases for workers and retirees. His administration has also reached agreements with 29 public-sector professions, ensuring better pay and conditions. These measures, he argued, reflect a commitment to improving living standards across the country.

A major focus of his speech was the largest public housing programme in Montenegro's history, targeting 133,000 new homes by 2030. The initiative aims to tackle long-standing shortages and provide affordable living spaces for thousands of families.

Labour reforms were another key topic. Montenegro announced an ongoing revision of the Labor Code and the introduction of 'Trabalho XXI', a reform designed to reduce precarious employment and enhance work-life balance. The changes seek to create more stable and fair working conditions for employees.

In education, he claimed the country had moved past ideological disputes, shifting focus to classroom improvements and higher academic standards. Progress in healthcare was acknowledged, though he admitted that 'not everything is done', signalling further work ahead.

Montenegro also addressed immigration, a contentious issue in recent months. He accused previous governments of ignoring the problem, stating that his administration had 'brought order and humanity where there was once chaos and laxity'. His approach, he insisted, rejects extremism while confronting challenges directly.

Looking forward, the prime minister pledged to spend the next three and a half years 'solving the people's problems, the nation's problems'. His government's ability to pass legislation—despite lacking an absolute majority—suggests a determined push to implement its agenda, even as political tensions remain. Montenegro's speech outlined a mix of completed reforms and upcoming initiatives, from tax relief to housing and labour laws. The government's narrow but effective parliamentary support has allowed it to advance policies despite opposition.

With plans to address immigration, education, and economic stability, the administration's focus now shifts to delivering on its promises before the next election. The success of these efforts will likely shape public confidence in the coalition's ability to govern without a majority.