LocationsHuman capital as the key to Montenegro’s growth and development
November 24, 2025
Montenegro is facing complex demographic challenges. A low but stable birth rate, population ageing, the emigration of young people, and internal migration from the north toward the coast are creating pressure on the country’s economic, social, and territorial cohesion. Responding to these trends requires proactive, multidisciplinary policies that address all segments of society.
This message was highlighted today at the conference “Human Capital in Montenegro as a Growth Multiplier”, organized in Podgorica by the Ministry of Social Welfare, Family Care and Demography and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Montenegro. The event emphasized that investing in people is essential for the country’s long-term development and prosperity.
Conference “Human Capital in Montenegro as a Growth Multiplier”
Ekaterina Paniklova, UNDP Resident Representative in Montenegro, emphasized that investments in human capital are key to addressing demographic challenges:
“Demographic challenges cannot be solved through short-term measures. A long-term approach is needed, based on investments in people: gender equality, quality education, accessible healthcare, decent work, and conditions that allow individuals and families to thrive. It is essential to shift from ‘brain drain’ to ‘brain circulation,’ reduce regional disparities, and ensure that no one is left behind. UNDP remains committed to supporting the Government of Montenegro in creating inclusive, data-driven policies that put people at the centre of development and strengthen the resilience of society,” Paniklova said.
Ekaterina Paniklova, UNDP Resident Representative in Montenegro
Damir Gutić, Minister of Social Welfare, Family Care and Demography, stressed that investing in people is the most important and smartest investment a state can make.
“Montenegro is at an important moment. Much works in our favour — a stable economy, a European perspective, and the great potential of our people. But we also face challenges that affect families, young people planning their future, employers seeking workers, and communities that want to grow. If we want to be more successful, we must create an environment in which people feel safe, supported, and motivated to build their lives and future here. This requires better system coordination, a clear vision, and concrete cooperation,” Minister Gutić said, adding that this process requires partnership and open dialogue.
Damir Gutić, Minister of Social Welfare, Family Care and Demography
The study showed that financial incentives for childbirth have a limited and temporary effect. Therefore, it is recommended to invest in gender equality, education, the healthcare system, and accessible childcare services in order to provide families with conditions for a dignified life.
It was emphasized that investing in human capital is not an expense but the most important development investment. It is an investment in families, in children, in young people who seek opportunities, in women who want to be active in the labor market, and in our diaspora, which wants to contribute.
The conference was attended by Minister of Labour, Employment and Social Dialogue Naida Nišić, Minister of Diaspora Mirsad Azemović, and State Secretary in the Ministry of Education, Science and Innovation Tatjana Ćalasan. The analyses on human capital were presented by Amira Vejzagić-Ramhorst, Programme Manager at UNDP’s Regional Hub for Europe and Central Asia in Istanbul, and Prof. dr Gordana Đurović.
