“It is unacceptable to ignore and disregard Montenegro’s strategic plans for the protection of natural values. Therefore, we urge decision-makers to remain consistent in implementing strategic plans,” the statement reads.

Non-governmental organizations, led by the Center for Protection and Study of Birds (CZIP), have launched a petition to protect Velika Plaža and ensure its preservation at both national and international levels.

CZIP stated that launching the petition is the first step in the fight to protect Velika Plaža and to involve citizens in the decision-making process.

They reminded that representatives of the Government and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) signed an agreement on cooperation in tourism and real estate development, allowing long-term leasing and “valorization” of Montenegro’s most valuable natural sites.

“This agreement opens the door for UAE investors to take over multiple locations across the country without transparent procedures and public insight,” the statement says.

According to CZIP, the public was informed only days before the agreement was signed about the plan to lease all 12 kilometers of Velika Plaža for up to 99 years, involving the construction of tourist complexes, marinas, an airport, and, ultimately, the irreversible loss of this area for citizens.

“It is particularly concerning that such an important document is being adopted behind closed doors, without public discussion or citizen oversight. The land is planned to be allocated through a fast-track procedure, without public bidding or tender, in violation of the existing, already problematic, spatial planning documentation. This poses serious risks of corruption and misuse of state resources,” the statement warns.

They argue that this agreement is not only unconstitutional and illegal but also violates international conventions Montenegro has signed, such as the Aarhus Convention, which guarantees citizens timely and complete information, participation in decision-making, and access to justice in environmental matters.

“The first investment proposal, enthusiastically presented as an opportunity that must not be missed, concerns the Bojana Delta—an area recognized in all relevant strategic documents of Montenegro as a site of exceptional importance that must be protected due to its unique biodiversity and ecological value. Furthermore, these areas are protected at both national and international levels under IBA, IPA, Ramsar, Emerald, and potential Natura 2000 status,” the statement continues.

CZIP considers it entirely inappropriate to plan complete and irreversible devastation in such a valuable area already protected by current legislation.

“It is unacceptable to ignore and fail to implement Montenegro’s strategic plans for the protection of natural values. We, therefore, urge decision-makers to adhere to these strategic plans,” they emphasized.

Additionally, they expressed concern over the situation at Ulcinj Salina, as the lease agreement between the bankruptcy administration and National Parks has not been renewed, and the site is currently maintained solely through the goodwill of workers who have not received salaries for two months.

“The lease agreement was not renewed just as an Arab investor is showing interest in Velika Plaža and its surroundings. We have seen and heard a lot, and we do not believe in coincidences. It would not surprise us if Salina is also part of the ‘valorization’ package that the Prime Minister is promoting,” the statement adds.

The petition has been supported by CZIP, EnvPro, Parks Dinarides, the Center for Investigative Journalism (CIN CG), NGO KANA/Ko ako ne arhitekt, Dr. Martin Schneider-Jacoby Association (MSJA), CEE Bankwatch Network, the Montenegrin Society of Ecologists, Green Home, MogUL, Ulcinj Info portal, and the Network for Affirmation of the NGO Sector (MANS).

www.vijesti.me