The 5th International Montenegro Water Conference, that was held on October 10-11, 2024, brought together key stakeholders from Montenegro and the Western Balkans in order to address pressing challenges and opportunities in the water and wastewater sector. Organized by the Association of Waterworks of Montenegro (AWM) and the Union of Municipalities of Montenegro (UoMM), the conference fostered collaboration, sharing expertise, and advancing sustainable solutions.
The MWC showcased regional best practices and ongoing initiatives that strengthen cooperation among municipalities and public utility associations. Discussions highlighted the significant achievements of RCDN+ in Montenegro and emphasized planned activities aimed at enhancing capacity development across the region, spotlighting the importance of continuous regional collaboration as a driver of success in water sector management.
The conference addressed critical topics, including:
- Enabling Environment in the Water Sector: Legal framework alignment with EU recommendations to meet real sector needs.
- Chapter 27 Challenges: Sustainable development, circular economy, and environmental protection as priorities for EU accession.
- From Projects to Success: Practical examples of utilizing funds for sustainable management of public utilities.
- Young Water Professionals and Gender Equality: Promoting youth participation and ensuring gender balance in the sector.
- Digital Transformation: Innovative technologies for improved performance and smarter decision-making in water service delivery.
The conference provided an opportunity for decision-makers, local government units, utility professionals, and regional organizations to engage in professional networking, exchange knowledge, and explore solutions to common challenges. With the participation of national and international institutions, the event underscored the power of collaboration in driving meaningful progress in the water sector.
