Montenegro faces significant challenges regarding its collective memory and historical narratives as a recent study reveals that one-third of its citizens lack clear opinions on documented war crimes and collaboration during World War II. This cultural disconnect, coupled with the government’s inaction on attempts to rehabilitate defeated ideologies, raises urgent questions about the nation’s relationship with its past.
The study, conducted by CG plus and published in December 2022, highlighted that citizens are increasingly confronted with conflicting narratives that blur the lines between history and political agendas. In this context, historian Milan Šćekić argues that the rising trend of historical relativism threatens to undermine the antifascist legacy of Montenegro.
Public Perception and Historical Awareness
The research indicates that the percentage of citizens without a definitive stance on the historical role of Pavle Đurišić, a prominent figure associated with the Chetnik movement, is nearly equal to those who hold positive views about him. This raises concerns about whether this reflects ignorance or a deliberate effort to obscure historical truths.
Šćekić suggests that the public’s fatigue with identity politics may contribute to this ambiguity. He notes, “Many citizens are tired of historical debates that have, for years, divided society. The elites in power have little to offer besides discussions about the past.” As the public grapples with these historical issues, it becomes apparent that the ruling elite are often preoccupied with wealth accumulation rather than addressing the historical narratives that shape national identity.
The Risks of Historical Revisionism
The danger lies in the neutral space that allows for the normalization of ideologies contrary to the antifascist foundations of modern Montenegro. Šćekić asserts that citizens are not as uninformed as some may believe and are aware of who truly fought against the occupiers during the war. “Those who have long attempted to present collaborators as antifascists know full well that their so-called heroes never clashed with the Italian and German armies,” he states, emphasizing the need for a more informed public discourse.
Despite nearly 60% of citizens opposing the erection of a monument to Pavle Đurišić, more than a quarter remain undecided. This lack of consensus on a figure with a historically contentious role suggests a troubling trend. “The establishment of a monument to a war criminal can be seen as an attempt to impose a narrative that contradicts the democratic will of the people,” Šćekić argues.
The slow response from institutions—more than four months without action to remove the controversial statue—demonstrates a troubling institutional passivity. Šćekić expresses skepticism about any political will to resolve this issue, stating, “If there were genuine political intentions to address this matter, it would have been resolved swiftly.”
European Integration and Societal Values
The decline in support for EU membership, dropping by approximately 13% over the past four years, reflects deeper societal uncertainties regarding Montenegro’s civilizational and value-oriented direction. Since its application for EU membership in late 2008, the journey has been long and arduous, with accession negotiations commencing in 2012. Current estimates suggest Montenegro might not join the EU until at least 2028, further exacerbating public disillusionment.
Šćekić notes that the aspirations for EU integration, once viewed as modern and appealing, have lost their allure. “The prolonged wait for EU membership has led to a decline in enthusiasm among citizens,” he explains. The recent political shifts have also contributed to skepticism, as promises of imminent EU accession have repeatedly fallen short.
As Montenegro navigates these complex issues, the underlying conflict between antifascist heritage and contemporary political attempts at historical revisionism becomes increasingly evident. Šćekić concludes that this struggle is not merely academic but a profound societal battle. “There exists a quiet conflict between an independent, antifascist, democratic Montenegro and one that harbors a servile mentality,” he remarks, expressing hope that antifascist values will ultimately prevail.
In light of the ongoing debates and the need for greater historical clarity, Montenegro stands at a crossroads, where understanding its past will be crucial to shaping its future.
