Today marks the 19th anniversary of Montenegro’s official path to independence, commemorating the dissolution of the State Union of Serbia and Montenegro.
On May 21, 2006, citizens of Montenegro cast their votes in a historic referendum that determined the country’s future. With a minimum threshold of 55% support required for success, the pro-independence vote prevailed, paving the way for full sovereignty.
The Albanian minority’s support proved decisive, tipping the scales in favor of independence. Prior to the referendum, the Montenegrin Parliament passed a law in line with European Union recommendations, ensuring transparency and legitimacy in the process.
Montenegro officially declared independence on June 3, 2006, and just weeks later, on June 28, it became the 192nd member of the United Nations. A year later, on May 11, 2007, Montenegro joined the Council of Europe, marking its full emergence on the international stage.
This anniversary stands as a reminder of the country’s journey toward self-determination, democratic choice, and European integration.
