17 October 2024, Podgorica, Montenegro

The “Ready4EU” Training Programme officially launched today with a Kick-Off Conference that brought together Montenegro’s top officials, training programme participants and key stakeholders in European integration. Among the distinguished participants were the Minister of European Affairs, Ms Maida GORČEVIĆ; v.d. General Director for the Local Self Government in the Ministry of Public Administration, Ms Nina BLAŽIĆ; ReSPA Director, Ms Maja HANDJISKA-TRENDAFILOVA; and the Director of the Human Resources Management Authority, Mr Agron M. CAMAJ. The event also welcomed 25 civil servants, the first cohort of participants, who will be trained under this landmark programme designed to prepare Montenegro for its future in the European Union and representatives of public institutions from Montenegro. 

Expressing pride in contributing to the design and implementation of the “Ready4EU” programme, Director HANDJISKA-TRENDAFILOVA emphasized ReSPA's long-standing commitment to supporting reforms of Montenegro's public administration: “ReSPA takes pride in contributing to the 'Ready4EU' programme, reinforcing our commitment to supporting reforms of Montenegrin public administration. We commend the Government for the vision and timely strategic approach in introducing this programme and we look forward to hosting the first training session for 25 civil servants on 23 October at our premises. We wish them all success in acquiring knowledge, skillsets and insights to shape and implement the common Union policies."

The “Ready4EU” programme, crafted by the Human Resources Management Authority and with the support of the Ministry of European Affairs, the Ministry of Public Administration, and ReSPA, was developed in response to Montenegro’s accelerated EU accession negotiations. The programme equips Montenegrin civil servants with essential EU administrative knowledge and skills, preparing them for future roles within EU institutions, agencies, and advisory bodies.

With six comprehensive modules covering topics such as EU History and Public Administration, Law, International Relations, Forms of Work in the EU and Employment Opportunities, and Business and Digital Skills, the programme spans 30 days of training in total. The first training session will commence on October 23, 2024, at ReSPA’s premises, with the current cohort set to complete their training in April 2025.

Designed to strengthen Montenegro’s administrative capacity, the “Ready4EU” programme is a vital step in ensuring the country’s smooth transition into the EU setting. Its participants, selected from key ministries and public authorities, will gain expertise from renowned experts, preparing them for demanding employment procedures in EU institutions, agencies and bodies.

As Montenegro moves closer to EU accession, the “Ready4EU” programme reflects the country’s commitment to strengthening its public administration and aligning with EU standards—bringing the nation closer to its European future.