Publication

This briefing examines the campaign, result, and aftermath of the 21 May 2006 poll, in which a majority of Montenegro's voters chose independence from Serbia. In spite of imminent transition challenges, the authors are confident that the successful referendum contributes to increasing stability in the western Balkans. Given the lack of a contingency plan for independence from the Serbian government and the ensuing confusion in Serbia, the report emphasizes that the acknowledgement of the referendum by all parties is crucial in order to prevent unrest.