Vesna Pejovic has spent years advocatiVesna Pejovic has fought for stricter gun laws in Montenegro since a mass shooting in 2022 claimed the lives of her daughter and two grandsons. Her hopes for change dimmed further when another massacre occurred on January 1, 2025, killing 13 people before the shooter turned the gun on himself.
“This tragedy forced us to relive our worst nightmares,” Pejovic said, frustrated by the lack of progress in enforcing tougher firearm regulations.
Montenegro ranks third globally in gun ownership per capita, with 39.1 firearms per 100 residents. The country’s deep-rooted gun culture dates back centuries to wars with the Turks, Venetians, and Austrians. Historically, firearms symbolized strength and protection, and in 1910, King Nikola Petrovic mandated universal gun ownership for men. Today, weapons remain a cultural fixture, displayed in homes, restaurants, and taverns.
Government Response and Enforcement Challenges
Following the January 1 shooting, Prime Minister Milojko Spajic announced stricter gun licensing requirements and a two-month amnesty for illegal firearm owners to surrender weapons. Similar programs across the Western Balkans have led to the collection of thousands of guns, but illegal weapons remain widespread.
Law enforcement experts argue that legislation alone is not enough. Without proper enforcement, illegal firearm markets will continue thriving. The recent tragedy underscores the urgent need for a stronger crackdown on unregistered weapons.
Rising Gun-Related Crimes
Gun violence has surged in the Western Balkans. According to SEESAC, a UN- and EU-backed gun-control initiative, firearm-related incidents—including accidents, suicides, and violent crimes—increased by over 70% between 2019 and 2024.
Data from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) reveals that the region’s gun-related death rate is 30% higher than that of the largest EU countries. Additionally, illegal firearms smuggled from the Balkans have been linked to terrorist attacks in Europe.
A Call for Stronger Reforms
While Montenegro has pledged to align firearm laws with EU regulations, real change requires a multi-pronged approach:
✔ Strict enforcement of existing gun laws.
✔ Enhanced border security to prevent smuggling.
✔ Community programs to shift public attitudes on firearm ownership.
✔ Cooperation with regional authorities to dismantle criminal networks.
Despite public resistance, Pejovic and other activists remain determined to push for reforms. “Buying a gun here is as easy as buying bread,” she said. Without decisive action, another avoidable tragedy could be just a matter of time
