Montenegro’s recent census has unveiled significant demographic shifts, highlighting an ageing population and a notable increase in the percentage of citizens identifying as Serbs. Conducted in December 2023, the census results were released on October 15, 2024, by the Statistical Office of Montenegro (MONSTAT).
Key Takeaways
- Population Growth: Montenegro’s population stands at 623,633, a 0.6% increase since 2011.
- Ethnic Composition: 41.12% identify as Montenegrin, while 32.93% identify as Serb.
- Ageing Population: The average age has risen to 39.7 years, reflecting an ageing society.
- Language and Religion: The majority speak Serbian (43.18%) and identify as Orthodox Christians (71.1%).
Demographic Changes
The census results indicate a shift in Montenegro’s ethnic landscape. The percentage of citizens identifying as Montenegrin has decreased from 45% in 2011 to 41.12% in 2023. Conversely, the percentage of those identifying as Serbs has risen from 28.7% to 32.93%. This change is significant in the context of Montenegro’s complex ethnic history, particularly following its separation from Serbia in 2006.
The census also revealed that 9.45% of the population identifies as Bosniaks, 4.97% as Albanians, 2.06% as Russians, and 1.63% as Muslims. Notably, 2.88% of respondents chose not to declare their ethnicity.
Ageing Society
The average age of Montenegro’s population has increased by 2.5 years since the last census, now standing at 39.7 years. This trend reflects a broader demographic shift towards an older population, with fewer children and young people. Milena Vukotic from MONSTAT emphasized that the changes in age structure over the past three decades are evident, with a growing number of middle-aged and elderly individuals.
Language and Religion
Language remains a sensitive issue in Montenegro. The census results show that 43.18% of residents speak Serbian, while 34.52% speak Montenegrin. This marks a slight decrease in the number of Montenegrins speaking their language compared to previous years. The religious landscape is predominantly Orthodox Christian, with 71.1% of the population identifying as such, followed by 20% Muslims and 3.2% Catholics.
Political Implications
The rising percentage of Serbs in Montenegro could have significant political ramifications. Ethnic identity plays a crucial role in the country’s politics, and the increase in the Serb population may bolster pro-Serbian sentiments within the government. Pro-Serbian parties have indicated plans to push for constitutional changes to recognize the Serbian language officially, which would require a two-thirds majority in parliament.
Conclusion
The 2023 census results paint a complex picture of Montenegro’s demographic landscape, revealing an ageing society and shifting ethnic identities. As the country navigates these changes, the implications for its political landscape and social cohesion will be closely watched. The census, initially scheduled for 2021, faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic and political tensions, making these results particularly significant for understanding the current state of Montenegro.
Sources
- Montenegro Census Reveals Ageing Society – and Increased Percentage of Serbs | Balkan Insight, Balkan Insight.
- Montenegro census results reveal majority identifies as Montenegrin | Euronews, Euronews.com.
- Montenegro census results: Montenegrins 41.12%, Serbs 32.93% of the population – European Western Balkans, European Western Balkans.
- Video. Montenegro census results reveal majority identifies as Montenegrin | Euronews, Euronews.com.
- Montenegro’s population grows to 623,633 – final 2023 census results | Montenegro News | SeeNews , SeeNews.
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