The Montenegro government, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Montenegro and the Chief Digital Office (CDO), has taken a significant step towards embracing the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence (AI). This initiative underscores the country's commitment to leveraging AI to address societal challenges, enhance public services, and drive economic growth in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Central to this effort is the launch of the AI Landscape Assessment (AILA) by the UNDP, a comprehensive tool designed to evaluate a country's readiness for ethical AI integration. AILA, through its methodical approach, focuses on three fundamental pillars: the government as an AI user, its role as an enabler in the AI ecosystem, and fostering the development of ethical AI nationwide. This assessment tool, leveraging both quantitative and qualitative data, aims to analyze the government's preparedness to adopt and enable AI ethically and responsibly.

Montenegro stands at a pivotal juncture, with the potential to harness AI to advance its progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This aligns with the nation's overarching vision, particularly in critical sectors such as poverty alleviation, healthcare, education, and economic development. However, the journey towards effective AI integration is not without challenges. Research identifies key areas such as the need for enhanced digital infrastructure, improved AI-specific skills, robust governance frameworks, and ethical safeguards.

The AI Landscape Assessment report provides an in-depth analysis of Montenegro's current AI landscape, highlighting both capabilities and challenges. Among its key findings is the identification of opportunities to integrate AI into public services, foster innovation through public-private partnerships, and address pressing issues such as data interoperability and inclusivity. The report suggests prioritizing AI applications in sectors where Montenegro has competitive advantages, such as tourism, environmental management, and public administration, while also focusing on foundational investments in skills development and infrastructure.

In addressing these priorities and challenges, Montenegro can position itself as a regional leader in ethical and impactful AI adoption, leveraging the transformative potential of AI to improve citizens' quality of life and advance sustainable development.