Human trafficking in Montenegro refers to the exploitation of individuals through forced labor, prostitution, and other forms of human rights violations within the country.
Montenegro is a transit, source, and destination country for men, women, and children subjected to human trafficking. Roma children are particularly vulnerable and have been subjected to forced begging. According to international human rights organizations, the Montenegrin government has faced criticism for insufficient efforts in victim protection and the prosecution of traffickers.
Montenegro prohibits sex and labor trafficking under Article of its criminal code, which prescribes penalties of up to 10 years in prison. In recent years, law enforcement has made progress in prosecuting traffickers, but corruption and inadequate victim support remain challenges.
In , Montenegro remained on the Tier 2 Watchlist , meaning that the government did not fully meet the minimum standards for eliminating trafficking but was making significant efforts to do so. The government has improved its anti-trafficking law enforcement, with increased arrests and prosecutions of traffickers.
However, courts have been criticized for lenient sentences, and cases involving corrupt officials remain underreported. While Montenegro has shelters for trafficking victims, NGOs report that victim identification remains inadequate. In , the government referred 15 victims to care centers, but challenges persist in ensuring long-term rehabilitation and support. Public awareness campaigns, educational initiatives, and international cooperation have been strengthened. The government has partnered with NGOs and international bodies to improve outreach and identification programs for at-risk populations.
