Podgorica, (MINA-BUSINESS) – According to the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Dialogue (MRZS), the closure of Chapter 2 – Freedom of Movement for Workers sends a clear signal that Montenegro has fully met its obligations in this area and has been recognized as a credible and reliable partner of the European Union (EU).

The Ministry stated that the closure of Chapter 2 is the result of years of intensive and dedicated work and expressed gratitude to all institutions and teams that contributed to this shared success.

According to the Ministry, the closure of Chapter 2 creates the conditions for Montenegrin citizens to enjoy one of the EU’s fundamental freedoms, the free movement of workers, while ensuring full social protection and security in exercising rights related to employment, healthcare, and pension insurance.

“This means that our citizens, as nationals of an EU member state, will be able to work in any member state without discrimination in terms of employment, pay, and working conditions,” the Ministry explained in a press release.

According to the press release, full portability of social security rights throughout the EU will also be ensured.

“Years of service and contributions paid for pension, health, and unemployment insurance, as well as other acquired social rights, will be accumulated and recognized without loss of entitlements when working or moving from one member state to another,” the Ministry said.

The Ministry added that a particularly important aspect is that, in accordance with European rules, these rights will also apply to workers’ family members, further strengthening social security, legal certainty, and quality of life for citizens. 

The Ministry said that the closure of Chapter 2 marks another important step on Montenegro’s European path and confirms that European integration brings tangible benefits that improve citizens’ daily lives, create new opportunities for work and development, and contribute to a safer and more predictable future for every family.