Country Profile: Montenegro
Montenegro, located in Southeastern Europe along the Adriatic Sea, boasts a diverse landscape characterized by rugged mountains and a rich cultural heritage. With an estimated population of 599,849 in 2024, the country is primarily composed of Montenegrins, with notable Serbian, Bosniak, and Albanian communities. Economically, Montenegro is classified as an upper-middle-income nation, primarily relying on tourism and services, while its governance is structured as a parliamentary republic.
Geography
Montenegro is situated between the Adriatic Sea and Serbia, with a total area of 13,812 square kilometers. The country's highly indented coastline spans 293.5 kilometers, while its terrain is marked by rugged mountains and plateaus. Montenegro's climate features hot, dry summers and relatively cold winters with heavy snowfall inland.
- 13,812 sq km: Total area of Montenegro.
- 293.5 km: Length of the coastline.
- 2,534 m: Highest point in Montenegro (Zia Kolata).
People and Society
The population of Montenegro is estimated at 599,849 in 2024, with a median age of 41.1 years. Montenegrins constitute the largest ethnic group, with a significant Serbian minority. The country maintains a high literacy rate of 98.5% and a life expectancy of 78.2 years at birth.
- 68.5%: Percentage of the population living in urban areas (2023).
- 10.9 births/1,000 population: Birth rate in 2024.
- 3.2 deaths/1,000 live births: Infant mortality rate in 2024.
Economy
Montenegro's economy is classified as upper-middle-income, with a projected GDP of $17.375 billion in 2024. The economic structure is diverse, with services accounting for 62.1% of GDP. Tourism is vital, though recent years have seen growth slow due to global economic conditions.
- $17.375 billion: Projected GDP (PPP) in 2024.
- 14.1%: Unemployment rate in 2024.
- 2.8%: Expected real GDP growth rate in 2024.
Government
Montenegro operates as a parliamentary republic, with a president and a prime minister leading the executive branch. The Assembly, consisting of 81 directly elected members, represents the legislative body. The country gained independence from the State Union of Serbia and Montenegro on June 3, 2006.
- Jakov MILATOVIC: Current President (since May 20, 2023).
- Milojko SPAJIC: Current Prime Minister (since October 31, 2023).
- 81: Total number of seats in the Parliament.
Military and Security
The military of Montenegro comprises the Army of Montenegro, with approximately 2,000 active-duty personnel. Military expenditures as a percentage of GDP have gradually increased, with a planned allocation of 2% by 2025. The military focuses on both defense and international cooperation, especially since joining NATO in 2017.
- 2%: Projected military expenditures as a percentage of GDP in 2025.
- 601.023 million kWh: Electricity transmission and distribution losses in 2023.
- 18: Total number of military service personnel.
Energy
Montenegro features a well-developed energy sector, with a total installed electricity generation capacity of 1.082 million kW. A significant portion of electricity generation comes from hydroelectric sources, accounting for 53% of total capacity. The country has achieved 100% electrification of its population.
- 100%: Total population with electricity access (2022).
- 39.1%: Share of fossil fuels in electricity generation capacity (2023).
- 2.719 billion kWh: Total electricity consumption in 2023.
Environment
Montenegro faces environmental challenges, including pollution in coastal waters and serious air pollution in urban areas. The country has committed to various international environmental agreements and seeks to balance economic development with environmental sustainability.
- 61.5%: Percentage of land covered by forests (2023).
- 329,800 tons: Annual municipal solid waste generated (2024).
- 6.4%: Percentage of municipal solid waste recycled (2022).
Transportation
Montenegro's transportation infrastructure includes five airports and a network of railways extending 250 km. The Port of Bar serves as a key maritime gateway, facilitating trade and tourism.
- 5: Number of airports (2025).
- 250 km: Total length of railways (2017).
- 18: Total number of merchant marine vessels (2023).
Communications
Montenegro has a robust communications infrastructure, with high mobile and internet penetration rates. About 90% of the population utilizes the internet, and there are significant subscriptions to both fixed and mobile telephony services.
- 1.31 million: Mobile cellular subscriptions (2023).
- 203,000: Total fixed broadband subscriptions (2023).
- 30: Fixed line subscriptions per 100 inhabitants (2023).
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 599,849 | 2024 estimate |
| Area | 13,812 sq km | |
| GDP (PPP) | $17.375 billion | 2024 estimate |
| Unemployment rate | 14.1% | 2024 estimate |
| Life expectancy | 78.2 years | 2024 estimate |
| Birth rate | 10.9 births/1,000 people | 2024 estimate |
| Literacy rate | 98.5% | 2018 estimate |
| Electricity access | 100% | 2022 estimate |
| Military expenditures | 2% of GDP | Projected for 2025 |
| Carbon dioxide emissions | 2.808 million metric tonnes | 2023 estimate |
Explore more about this country: