30 June 2025, Podgorica, Montenegro

Under the motto "Responsible, Open, Efficient!", Montenegro marked Public Administration Day with a ceremonial event at Vila Gorica, gathering high-level representatives of the Government of Montenegro, the diplomatic corps, international organisations, and the public sector.

Minister of Public Administration, Marash Dukaj, stated that today, following the closure of another important chapter in the EU accession negotiations, we are discussing the goal of his ministry, "an efficient and depoliticised administration that follows contemporary trends and serves citizens and the economy."

For the Director of the Human Resources Administration, Agron Camaj, this year’s motto, “Responsible! Transparent! Efficient!” is not just a slogan. “These are values, more than principles. Values that must permeate every segment of our work, and as such, they are not abstract—they translate into concrete reforms that we are implementing: the modernization of procedures, digitalization of services, improvement of quality control, and, above all, investment in people—in you, in us, in the human capital of the public administration,” said Camaj.

A significant contribution to the event was made by Director Handjiska-Trendafilova, who reminded attendees of the shared responsibility in building modern and citizen-oriented institutions. “Strong institutions are built on the spirit of public service, on leadership based on integrity and personal example – but at their core, they rely on competent, motivated, and empowered civil servants – people with strength and purpose,” she stated.

Through ReSPA’s Regional Quality Management Centre, Montenegro has received consistent support over the past five years in implementing European models such as the CAF (Common Assessment Framework), which enables institutions to self-assess and improve through an inclusive and structured process. This year, the Ministry of Public Administration became the first institution in Montenegro to be awarded the CAF Effective User Certificate, confirming its commitment to quality, transparency, and modernisation of public services. Director Handjiska Trendafilova officialy handed over to Minister Dukaj.

Deputy Prime Minister for Political System, Justice and Anti-Corruption, Momo Koprivica, stated that a professional and well-organised public administration, based on legality, transparency, and accountability, is the foundation of a democratic system and a prerequisite for the rule of law.

The highlight of the event was the award ceremony honouring the most outstanding individuals and teams in public administration, who have contributed to the improvement of services, digitalisation, and transparency. The awards were presented by Minister Dukaj, Deputy Prime Minister Koprivica and Director Handjiska-Trendafilova, with the message that “people are the greatest value of every reform and system.”