Abstract
Social dialogue is a central pillar of the Decent Work Agenda and an indispensable mechanism for upholding international labour standards. Both the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the European Union (EU) place a strong emphasis on the role of social partners in socio-economic policymaking, industrial relations, and labour rights implementation. In the context of Montenegro’s ongoing efforts to align with the European Union Acquis Communautaires, particularly Chapter 19 on social policy and employment, strengthening social dialogue is both a political obligation and a strategic necessity. This rapid assessment, with a specific focus on Montenegro, is part of a broader initiative to strengthen social dialogue and collective bargaining across the Western Balkans within the framework of the Employment and Social Affairs Platform (ESAP) 3, a project funded by the European Union and implemented by the ILO. Its purpose is to inform key stakeholders and support reform efforts by contributing to Montenegro’s institutional development and policy alignment in line with international labour standards and related EU acquis, including in the context of EU accession. It provides a summary overview of the legal framework, institutional arrangements and performance, and practical functioning of social dialogue and collective bargaining in Montenegro. By highlighting strengths, structural weaknesses and areas for improvement, this analytical summary aims to serve as both a reference point and a springboard for policy development.