Montenegro has taken another important step towards strengthening judicial integrity and public trust through the adoption of practical Guidelines for the implementation of the Codes of Ethics for judges and state prosecutors.

Following the adoption of the new Codes of Ethics in 2025, the Guidelines for State Prosecutors were adopted in March 2026, while the Guidelines for Judges were adopted in June 2026. By complementing the new codes with practical implementation guidance, the framework for judicial ethics and accountability has been further strengthened, providing judges and prosecutors with concrete tools to uphold the highest standards of independence, integrity and professionalism.

Developed under the framework of the Horizontal Facility for the Western Balkans and Türkiye III, and the action "Strengthening accountability of the judicial system and enhancing protection of victims' rights in Montenegro, the Guidelines translate ethical principles into practical guidance, providing valuable support also to members of ethical commissions responsible for interpreting and applying the codes in concrete cases.

The Guidelines were developed in close co-operation with the Judicial Council, Prosecutorial Council, Supreme Court and Supreme State Prosecution. Particular contributions were provided by the secretariats of both Councils and members of the ethical commissions, whose practical experience helped ensure that the guidance responds to real challenges encountered in judicial practice.

To encourage reflection and promote a preventive approach to ethics, the Guidelines include practical examples, questions for self-assessment, and illustrations of both acceptable and unacceptable conduct, drawing on relevant Council of Europe standards and comparative European practices. Their content will be regularly updated to reflect new ethical questions and emerging case law, ensuring their continued relevance for the judiciary.