The chances of increasing proportional pensions to 450 euros, the minimum pension in Montenegro, starting in January 2025, are decreasing. The government has prioritized a 30% salary increase for high public officials, projected to cost 8.5 million euros annually, over raising pensions for those in need, according to the Action for Social Justice (ASP).
Around 3,500 people currently receive pensions below the minimum of 450 euros, and the state would need to allocate five million euros annually to raise these pensions. Although a representative from the Ministry of Finance indicated that the issue could be resolved “next year,” legal changes are required, and no amendments have yet been proposed.
The budget for 2025 must be adopted by the end of this month, but it is uncertain whether the necessary legal acts will be signed in time. Meanwhile, public sector salary increases are set to take effect in January, benefiting high-ranking officials who have already received pay increases through the “Europe Now 2” program.
The government froze the minimum pension for two years, meaning any increase would only occur in January 2026. In contrast, there are no plans to freeze the high salaries of public officials.
