Twinning to strengthen the operational capacity of Montenegro’s AFCOS system for the protection of the European Union’s financial interests

Relations between Montenegro and the European Union are governed by the Stabilisation and Association Agreement, in force since 2010, which sets out the country’s obligation to align its legislative and institutional framework with the EU acquis, including the protection of the EU’s financial interests. In this context, the project contributes directly to meeting the accession requirements relating to Chapter 32 (Financial Control), provisionally closed in January 2026, and Chapter 22 (Regional Policy and Coordination of Structural Instruments), which are essential for the proper management of IPA III funds and future structural and cohesion funds.

The project also fulfils the commitments made by Montenegro under the Financial and Association Framework Agreement and the Reform and Growth Facility, which require effective mechanisms for the prevention, detection and reporting of irregularities and fraud, including the use of the Irregularity Management System (IMS). These priorities are also reflected in national strategic documents, particularly the National Anti-Fraud Strategy for the Protection of the EU’s Financial Interests 2025–2028 (NAFS) and the Public Finance Management Reform Programme 2022–2026.

Although Montenegro has developed a solid legal and institutional framework to protect the EU’s financial interests, operational challenges remain in relation to the detection and management of irregularities, cooperation with OLAF, adapting to new European financial instruments, improving reporting procedures via the IMS, and raising public awareness.

The project will build on the progress made through recent reforms and previous Twinning projects, providing practical assistance to consolidate the capacities of the AFCOS system, strengthen institutional coordination and ensure the sustainable and effective implementation of European standards on combating fraud and protecting EU funds.

Project objectives

Combating fraud

Strengthening operational and preventive mechanisms to combat fraud and protect the EU’s interests within the framework of Montenegro’s AFCOS system.

Practical tools

The development of practical tools for managing irregularities and fraud.

Institutional coordination and reporting frameworks

Improving institutional coordination and cooperation with OLAF, as well as strengthening reporting and procedural frameworks.

Awareness-raising and training

Raising awareness and building the capacities of relevant stakeholders involved in the protection of the EU’s financial interests.

Contribución del proyecto a los ODS