Investing in children is investing in the future of Montenegro

The Minister of Finance, Mr. Novica Vuković, today stated at a joint session of parliamentary committees dedicated to the status of children in the process of Montenegro's accession to the European Union that investing in children is not a cost, but one of the most important investments in the country's future. Every euro invested in children's health, education, and social protection is an investment in a stronger, more educated, and more competitive Montenegro. He emphasized that Montenegro, facing demographic challenges, cannot afford to leave any child without adequate support. Therefore, we must not allow any child to be left behind due to poverty, disability, place of residence, or any other circumstances. According to him, investing in children is not only a matter of social policy but also a matter of economic development, labor market, and long-term competitiveness of the country. Only a responsible and sustainable budget can guarantee that support for children will not depend on economic cycles and crises. The minister announced further work on improving child-focused budgeting to make allocations for children more transparent, measurable, and linked to concrete results. Speaking about Montenegro's European path, the minister highlighted that European integration means not only adopting laws and meeting formal criteria but also building a society where European standards become part of everyday life for every citizen, especially children. Investing in children today means a stronger, fairer, and more prosperous Montenegro tomorrow. Minister Vuković thanked the UNICEF Representation in Montenegro for long-standing partnership with our country's institutions and for the initiative that today brought together relevant institutions.