Montenegro Anti-Corruption Agency Gains Access to Officials' Bank Accounts

The Agency for the Prevention of Corruption (ASK) in Montenegro has proposed amendments to the Law on Prevention of Corruption, expanding the definition of conflict of interest to include private interests of persons connected to public officials. The amendments would grant ASK access to the bank accounts of officials and their household members, enabling comparison of declared and actual assets from the start of their mandate. This move aims to enhance transparency and accountability in public office. The proposal is currently under parliamentary consideration.

Global Impact

Politically, the amendments represent a significant step in Montenegro's EU accession process, as anti-corruption is a key benchmark. Economically, enhanced transparency could attract foreign direct investment by reducing perceived corruption risk.