In the period from 2013 to 2016, a critical analysis of problems which Montenegro faced in the previous period was conducted from the aspect of priority development issues and on the basis of the best international practices and processes. After the expiry of the five-year Action Plan related to the previous strategy of sustainable development, activities on the development of the new National Strategy for Sustainable Development until 2030 were initiated. It is important to underline that the process of preparation of the Strategy was performed through a comprehensive consultative process in which participated the representatives of all relevant social groups, including the non-governmental sector as well as the widest interested public. The National Strategy for Sustainable Development until 2030 reflects a high degree of consensus of all social structures of Montenegro.

The new National Strategy for Sustainable Development until 2030 was adopted by the Government of Montenegro on 7 July 2016. This Strategy promotes the sustainable development policies and sets long-term guidelines for sustainable development of Montenegro.

Through the National Strategy for Sustainable Development until 2030, Montenegro positioned itself among the first countries in the Western Balkans which fully adopted and integrated in their national systems the requirements of the United Nations established in the Agenda for Sustainable Development until 2030, taking in consideration different national circumstances, primarily the process of accession to the European Union, capacities and levels of development, whilst taking due account of national policies and priorities.

The National Strategy for Sustainable Development until 2030 is an umbrella, horizontal and long-term strategy of Montenegro and represents the platform for the transposition of Sustainable Development Goals into the national framework.

On the basis of own experiences and lessons learned and experiences of key international players, and taking in consideration obligations towards future generations, this document provides an innovative assessment of the current situation, identification of key unsustainable development trends and requirements of sustainable development until 2030. It defines strategic goals as well as the national resource management measures through a four-dimensional development concept based on human, social, natural and economic resources. Strategic goals are defined as responses to problems identified as key moving forces of national unsustainable trends. Defined strategic goals are linked to measures and sub-measures contained in the Action Plan for Sustainable Development of Montenegro until 2030. Measures and sub-measures represent a response to national requirements and at the same time to global obligations established in the Agenda for Sustainable development until 2030.