President of Montenegro, Jakov Milatović, attended the first May Day trade union academy organized by the Union of Free Trade Unions of Montenegro (USSCG) to mark International Workers’ Day. He praised USSCG’s two decades of work in advancing labor rights and emphasized the importance of protecting and fully implementing those rights in practice.
Milatović acknowledged that despite progress, challenges remain. He cited high poverty rates, especially in the north and rural areas, job insecurity, low wages, and inequality in income and opportunities. Over half of Montenegrin workers earn under €800 monthly, showing that rising average wages alone are not enough to improve living standards.
He highlighted the need for stronger fiscal policies, responsible social measures, and effective anti-corruption efforts to ensure fair economic development. He also stressed the vital role of trade unions in protecting workers’ rights and called for a society where work is a source of dignity, not insecurity.
Milatović concluded by wishing citizens a happy May Day, expressing hope for a Montenegro where every worker has equal opportunity and protection.
