What Montenegrin Voters Want: The Issues That Should Shape Europe Now’s Agenda

If the ruling Europe Now party wants to retain public confidence and secure its economic vision, the path forward should focus on lowering the cost of living, addressing housing and youth job creation and demonstrating tangible results for ordinary people. Across multiple demographic groups and regions, voters are sending a consistent message, they want economic relief that is direct, visible and inclusive.

#### The Cost of Living Crisis Dominates All Else

An overwhelming 54% of voters say lowering the cost of living should be the government’s top economic priority, far ahead of other concerns like increasing wages (15%) or fighting corruption (15%). This concern is remarkably consistent across gender, age and geography, with majorities in every region ranking cost-of-living relief first.

When asked what change would most convince them that the Europe Now 2.0 programme is working, 69% pointed to a reduction in daily costs such as housing, food and utilities. Similarly, 83% support government subsidies for essentials like food and fuel, there is strong support across all demographics, but central region residents and older voters are particularly fond of this.

This public consensus sets a clear benchmark: unless Europe Now can prove it is making life more affordable, most Montenegrins won’t consider the reforms a success.

#### Affordable Housing Is a Political Imperative

While economic pressures are widespread, the housing crisis is emerging as a critical pain point. 66% of voters say addressing the housing crisis is “very important” and 41% say that improving access to affordable housing is “very critical” to judging the success of Europe Now 2.0. These sentiments are even stronger among women (81%) and those in the coastal regions (84%).

If the government is seeking a high-impact, broadly popular initiative, then expanding housing access, especially for younger generations, should be a natural focal point.

#### Jobs for Young People: A Vital Expectation

Although unemployment was not voters’ top priority overall, there is clear urgency when it comes to youth job creation. A remarkable 86% of voters say it is “very” or “somewhat” important for the government to invest in youth employment programmes, including 66% of all voters saying it’s very important overall.

Further evidence of this concern comes from the finding that 45% say reducing youth emigration by creating better jobs would make Europe Now 2.0 a success, rising to 50% among women and 55% in the coastal region. This suggests that voters want economic policies that not only stabilise their present but also offer hope for the next generation.

#### Rural Inclusion, Small Business Growth and Income Equality Still Matter But Don’t Drive the Agenda

Europe Now’s government may also want to address rural job opportunities and income inequality, but these do not top the list of urgent priorities. While 67% would view a boost in rural employment positively and 41% say reducing income inequality is “very important”.

Similarly, while voters are not opposed to foreign investment, only 6% said it would convince them of Europe Now’s success, compared to 69% who prioritise cheaper essentials. The same goes for small business development: 62% believe it would contribute to success but only 2% named it as a top priority. These issues may still be politically useful but they are unlikely to energise public support on their own.

The policy priorities of Montenegrins are not difficult to understand, they have a clear and immediate picture of what improvements they want. Whether young or old, urban or rural, the majority want to see real reductions in costs, better housing options and jobs for the future. For Europe Now, they must demonstrate clear wins for ordinary people and bridge the growing trust gap with visibility and delivery.

Download the data tables for this poll.