Transparent and Accountable State-Owned Companies in Montenegro

Summary of the project implemented by BIRN

This project will enhance the transparency and accountability of state-owned companies in Montenegro’s transport sector, a potential incubator for political corruption. Through detailed monitoring of the finances, operations, and expenditures of seven companies, we will make all relevant data publicly available, particularly regarding employment, one-time payments, housing policies, and other expenses that could be used to influence voters. We will produce and publish investigative stories and a monitoring report, as well as implement a series of activities aimed at improving policies, practices, and legislation in this area.

Project goals

The overall goal of this project is to improve the transparency and accountability of state-owned companies in Montenegro’s transport sector, a potential incubator for political corruption.

Specific goals

More information on public spending by state-owned transport companies is made available to the public, particularly regarding employment, one-time payments, housing policies, and other expenses that could be used to influence voters.
Increased accountability of top management in state-owned transport companies for the management of public funds.

Beneficiaries

At least 100,000 citizens will be thoroughly informed about the operations of at least seven state-owned companies in the transport sector.

At least one law, policy, or practice in the management of state-owned transport companies will be improved in favor of public interest, transparency, accountability, and corruption reduction. Increased awareness of sector-related issues among at least 30 executives of state-owned transport companies and at least 40 decision-makers from political parties.

Main activities

Collection and analysis of dataon the operations and finances of seven state-owned transport companies.
Quantitative and qualitative analysisof the collected data.
Publication of at least three investigative stories.
Creation of a monitoring reportwith recommendations for improvements.
Advocacy campaign and meetings with decision-makersto promote the adoption of recommendations.
National Anti-Corruption Forum
Submission of initiatives to decision-makers for improving laws, policies, and practices.