Prof. Dr. Saša Mujović, Mayor of Podgorica
The capital of Montenegro, Podgorica, has long been recognized as the country’s key urban, economic, and administrative center. Its rapid development reflects an ambition to become a modern, sustainable, and investment-attractive city. In an interview with “Diplomacy & Commerce Montenegro” magazine, the Mayor of Podgorica, Prof. Dr. Saša Mujović, discussed the city’s top priorities, the challenges of urban development, plans for improving transport infrastructure and digitalizing administration, as well as strategic initiatives aimed at attracting investments and strengthening international relations. Finally, he reflected on the importance of European integration for local governments and Podgorica’s role in implementing European standards to enhance the quality of life for all its residents.
Mr. Mujović, in recent years, Podgorica has been developing intensively, both in terms of infrastructure and urban planning. What are your key priorities for the development of the capital, and which projects are currently your main focus?
The priority projects currently being implemented by the local administration stem from the real and urgent needs of the capital, particularly in the area of municipal infrastructure. One of the main challenges in this sector has been outdated and inadequate planning documentation, which for years fell under the jurisdiction of the state level. However, with the adoption of the Law on Spatial Planning, the responsibility for drafting and adopting local planning documents has been transferred to local governments. This has created the conditions for more efficient management of space as the most valuable resource and for systematically addressing accumulated issues. Until the spatial planning system becomes fully operational, the capital city is implementing a series of urgent measures – primarily aimed at addressing the lack of parking spaces, increasing green areas, and improving children’s and sports playgrounds. In this regard, several projects are currently underway, with a particular focus on the installation of prefabricated above-ground garages. Specifically, a tender has been announced for the conceptual and main design of a modular above-ground parking garage in Block V. Additionally, around 400 new parking spaces are planned for the site of the former “Morača” barracks.
Additionally, we are launching the “Green City Pulse” project, which involves the creation of green pedestrian corridors throughout the city. These corridors will be enhanced with tree planting, urban furniture, and additional features that make public spaces more functional, sustainable, and aesthetically appealing. The implementation of the “MIKRO 020” project is also continuing, focusing on revitalizing small neglected public spaces in residential areas. Currently, work is underway on one location, with preparations for new sites in progress.
At the same time, construction work is ongoing on Veljko Vlahović Boulevard and Pero Ćetković Boulevard, along with the reconstruction of several streets across the city, including Kozaračka, Miloš Obilić, Špiro Mugoša, and Ljubović. Special attention has been given to restoring the authentic appearance of Stara Varoš and Drač, with the paving of roadways using stone cobblestones to preserve the historical character of these areas. Construction work is also underway on the Morača River promenade and the landslide remediation in Pričelje. In the field of high-rise construction, key projects include the City Theater and a multi-purpose facility in Zagorič. Preparations are also being made for the reconstruction of Vučedolska Street, Branko Ćopić Street, and Slobode Street, as well as for the development of new promenades on Ljubović Hill and near the Small Sports Stadium. Among the most significant projects are the construction of the Western Bypass and Vojislavljević Boulevard. A co-financing agreement has been signed with the Traffic Administration for these projects, while the City of Podgorica is responsible for preparing project documentation, land expropriation, and the construction of accompanying municipal infrastructure. As for other projects, the 2025 Urban Development Plan, which is currently being drafted, will provide a clearer definition of priorities for the second half of this year.
An efficient and transparent city administration is essential for the smooth functioning of a modern city. What steps are you taking to improve local administration and enhance communication between citizens and city authorities?
In anticipation of the new Law on Local Self-Government, which will introduce significant changes in the functioning of local authorities, the City of Podgorica is already implementing concrete reforms. A particular focus has been placed on local community councils, many of which had been neglected and non-functional for years. These councils have now been fully renovated and reactivated, which we see as a crucial step in strengthening communication with citizens and involving them in decision-making processes. Direct citizen participation in decision-making is one of the cornerstones of a modern local community. That is why, at the next session of the local parliament, proposals for new decisions will be presented to further enhance citizen engagement – especially through the new Decision on Local Community Councils and amendments to the Decision on the Youth Council. Our goal is to ensure that citizens, particularly young people, have a strong voice and actively participate in shaping the policies of Podgorica through their ideas and initiatives. This aligns with the message sent by young people through Podgorica’s candidacy for the European Youth Capital 2028, under the slogan: “Youth Create the City”.
When it comes to improving local administration, we recognize that it is a complex system requiring continuous development. Local governments play a key role in implementing European legislation, particularly in areas such as environmental protection, infrastructure, public procurement, and social services. Therefore, it is essential to continuously strengthen the knowledge and skills of employees while also leading by example – working reliably, with dedication, and always in the best interest of citizens.
This year, the City of Podgorica will begin developing a Human Resource Management Strategy, which will assess current needs and establish clear goals for personnel policies. At the same time, a new employee management software is being developed to enable more precise, up-to-date, and efficient human resource management.
The goal is clear – to build a professional, responsible, and citizen-oriented city administration. While achieving this requires time and specific processes, the City of Podgorica remains firmly committed to creating a system that ensures lawful, efficient, and modern governance in the service of all residents.
Podgorica is becoming an attractive destination for investors and entrepreneurs. What initiatives is the City taking to encourage domestic and foreign investments and improve the business environment?
In recent years, Podgorica has increasingly positioned itself as a city with strong investment potential. The city administration is taking concrete steps to further improve the business environment, attract new investments, and create conditions for long-term and sustainable development. By strengthening international cooperation and engaging in direct dialogue with diplomatic representatives, international organizations, and business leaders, Podgorica is opening doors to significant projects.
We place special emphasis on retaining and supporting existing investors, as we believe that their development is just as important as attracting new ones. One such example is the expansion of the Big Fashion shopping center, a project that the City of Podgorica actively supports, recognizing its contribution to economic growth. There is also strong investment interest from over ten renowned French companies, whose representatives recently visited Podgorica and expressed their readiness for joint initiatives in infrastructure, energy, and environmental protection.
As part of its strategic partnerships, Podgorica maintains a long-standing collaboration with Italy, focusing on strengthening cultural ties, promoting shared heritage, and identifying spaces for cultural events in the capital. Future joint projects will enhance both cultural and economic integration. Additionally, we are fostering friendly relations with Turkey, including discussions about potential investments, such as the establishment of a private school in Podgorica. Such initiatives diversify the education system and create new opportunities for the local community.
In partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Podgorica is implementing several key initiatives focused on green transition, biodiversity protection, digital transformation, and institutional capacity building. As one of the participants in the “100 Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities” mission, Podgorica has committed to achieving climate neutrality by 2030. A key aspect of this effort is the innovative concept of a Citizens’ Climate Assembly, which further strengthens community involvement in decision-making. A crucial mechanism for strategic dialogue and the development of concrete initiatives remains the Podgorica Forum. This platform, which has been active for years, serves to connect businesses, academia, and institutions, fostering a better business environment, innovative solutions, and the promotion of Podgorica as a city open to new ideas and investments.
Through these activities, Podgorica is evolving into a modern, open, and dynamic city – one where investors and international partners are recognized as key players in building a shared and sustainable future.
We are witnessing that the rapid increase in the number of residents and vehicles in Podgorica has led to daily traffic congestion and a shortage of parking spaces, which represents one of the biggest infrastructure challenges for the capital city. What specific solutions are planned to improve the traffic network, ease congestion on key roads, and increase parking capacity? Is there a long-term strategy for improving public transport and alternative mobility options?
To systematically address this issue, the City of Podgorica is implementing a series of shortterm and long-term measures. Additional locations in the city center are being considered for the construction of new aboveground or underground parking garages, and the necessary urban-technical conditions for their design and implementation are currently being developed.
To quickly increase the number of parking spaces, the city is also proceeding with the development of temporary parking lots on available public land owned by the city, particularly in neighborhoods where parking shortages have been identified.
Furthermore, a public call will be announced for the development of a comprehensive traffic study for the Capital City.
In addition to analyzing the existing traffic network, this study will include solutions for improving public transportation and developing alternative mobility options, such as cycling and pedestrian infrastructure.
One of the key aspects of traffic policy is the enhancement of public transportation. In this regard, we are continuously working on expanding the vehicle fleet and introducing new city bus routes to provide citizens with a more comfortable, accessible, and reliable means of transport. The Capital City will also focus on developing a long-term mobility strategy, based on sustainable and functional solutions that meet the modern needs of Podgorica, as well as its growing population and increasing number of vehicles.
Many cities utilize EU funds to implement infrastructure and development projects. Is Podgorica actively leveraging the opportunities provided by European programs and funds? Are there any specific projects being carried out in collaboration with European partners?
The Capital City actively takes advantage of available European funds and support programs to implement strategic infrastructure and development projects. One of the most significant examples is the “Wastewater Collection and Treatment in Podgorica” program, recognized as a nationally important project and ranked first on Montenegro’s priority list of environmental infrastructure projects. This is a complex program consisting of eight components, including the construction of a wastewater treatment plant, treatment and incineration of sewage sludge, construction of the main sewage collector, a pedestrian bridge carrying the collector and main water supply line, expansion of the secondary sewage network, improvement of wastewater management at the “13. Jul Plantaže” winery.
The total value of the project exceeds €75 million, and to ensure its implementation, the Capital City, in cooperation with relevant institutions, has secured substantial non-repayable funds from European sources, including the Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF) and bilateral EU donations. So far, over €32 million in grant support has been secured for technical assistance and construction. The project is being implemented in accordance with current EU environmental legislation and holds particular importance in fulfilling Montenegro’s obligations under Chapter 27 of the EU accession process. Its realization is not just an infrastructure development but also an environmental milestone for the Capital City, directly contributing to improving citizens’ quality of life and protecting the Morača River and the broader water system. Then, the City Team for Technical Support in the preparation and implementation of EU projects (the so-called IPA Team), established in 2018 within the Department for International Cooperation and Partnerships, is currently involved in the implementation of five projects funded by European grants.
These projects address climate change challenges and contribute to the sustainable development of the city. The Be Ready project focuses on mitigating urban heat island effects, while SpongeCity tests the concept of “sponge cities” as a response to increasingly frequent extreme weather events. The NBS4RESILIENCE project promotes nature-based solutions to enhance resilience to rising temperatures, whereas the MISSION project is developing a smart multimodal transport application to improve urban mobility. Additionally, within the INCREASE project, a new generation of photovoltaic panels is being developed, with demonstration installations planned for two public buildings in Podgorica – the Administrative Building of the Secretariat for Spatial Planning and Sustainable Development and a public parking garage in the city center.
As a former minister in the current government, how do you assess Montenegro’s progress in the European integration process, particularly in the context of urban development, environmental protection, and alignment with European standards? What are the main challenges on this path, and what do you believe should be prioritized to accelerate this process?
Montenegro has made significant progress in European integration compared to other countries in the region. However, the pace has unfortunately slowed down in recent years. While progress has been achieved in aligning national legislation with European law, the country continues to face serious challenges regarding implementation and institutional stability. One example is the area of waste management and recycling, which in Montenegro remains far from a satisfactory level. Systematic approaches are lacking, infrastructure is limited, and public awareness still largely relies on individual initiatives. If we are to take European commitments seriously, waste management and the establishment of sustainable recycling systems must become a priority. A similar situation exists in the field of urban development – plans are in place, but their implementation is often hindered by bureaucratic obstacles, institutional inconsistencies, and limited capacities.
One of the main challenges on the European path remains the establishment of a professional, stable, and depoliticized public administration capable of consistently fulfilling its commitments. European integration should be a national priority, but it must also result in better services, better-organized cities, and an improved quality of life. Local governments can play a key role in this process through concrete projects, and the Capital City will continue to make the application of European standards visible and beneficial to citizens.