Montenegro’s Ministry of Public Works selected the Xenergy – Proteus consortium to adapt a former psychiatric clinic in Podgorica for a regional centre supporting victims of sexual violence, under a contract worth 398,489 euros including VAT. The contract was signed on 29 September 2026, and the work is intended to establish a specialised service in the capital.
The contractor has 90 days to complete the works, starting from the date it is formally introduced to the site. The contract does not set that date; the start is to follow submission of technical documentation, notice of the planned start of works and other required documents.
The Ministry of Public Works launched the tender in early August for the centre’s establishment on behalf of the Ministry of Social Welfare, Care for Family and Demography. The facility is planned for the state-owned building that formerly housed the Psychiatry Clinic at the Clinical Center of Montenegro.
A government document describes the building as being in poor structural condition and requiring repairs, adaptation and equipment to meet applicable standards. The property was temporarily assigned to the Museum of Contemporary Art of Montenegro last year, with prior government approval.
The Ministry of Social Welfare estimated that the future centre would need at least 400 square metres. An assessment found that about 620 square metres could be adapted, meeting the institution’s programme and functional requirements.
The planned centre will include a unit for children based on the Barnahus model and a separate unit for adult victims of sexual violence. Its establishment is one of Montenegro’s activities to improve protection for victims and is linked to commitments under Negotiating Chapter 23 on Judiciary and Fundamental Rights, the Reform Agenda of Montenegro 2024-2027, the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, the Istanbul Convention and the Lanzarote Convention.
