EU Chapter 27 Environment and climate change aims to promote sustainable development and protect the environment for present and future generations. Invasive species have a negative impact on environmental health and economic growth, as, for example, the EU has more than EUR 12 billion in damages annually due to invasive species. In Montenegro, there are 51 plant species on the mainland that are considered invasive.

However, Montenegro lacks systemic research on invasive species and their impact on local ecosystems and native species. In this context, UNOPS has provided assistance to Montenegro to strengthen the capacities of competent institutions responsible for permitting and controlling procedures related to alien and invasive alien species of plants, animals and fungi. The work contributes to fulfilling closing benchmarks within Chapter 27.

The UNOPS expert delivered tailored workshops aimed to enhance institutions’ capacity for effective management of invasive species. The topics covered: (1) permitting breeding of alien species in a closed system, (2) control of closed systems and manner of keeping invasive species therein, (3) risk assessment for the invasiveness of an alien species, (4) permits for use of invasive alien species for scientific purposes, ex-situ conservation and manufacture of medical products, (5) permits for use of invasive alien species for the protection of public interest, and (6) defining urgent measures for eradication, control of further spread and prevention of introduction. Workshop participants got clear understanding on their responsibilities under both national and EU regulations related to invasive alien species, with commitment to elevate this issue within their working agendas and advocate for its inclusion as a governmental and organizational priority.

The UNOPS advisor identified gaps in expertise and need for continued capacity building, with special emphasis on risk assessments, control measures, border control and ongoing monitoring. The representatives of Montenegrin institutions identified key areas for collaboration and have started developing mechanisms (memoranda, protocols, etc.) to establish connections for sharing data, experiences and technical resources.

The work of the K4R programme has enhanced relevant institutions’ ability to achieve their mission by promoting effective management, strong governance and a sustained commitment to managing alien and invasive alien species. It advances more robust and transparent systems for invasive species control, which support sustainable development by ensuring the long-term health of natural resources and ecosystems, which are essential for future generations, while adequate and timely responses will limit the potential economic damage for Montenegro.

“A robust legal and regulatory framework is essential for effective management of invasive alien species. Montenegro must continue aligning with the EU Regulation 1143/2014 and begin implementing the Law on Alien and Invasive Alien Species of Plants, Animals and Funghi as soon as possible. Invasive species should be ranked high on the government list of priorities as they can be considered a type of ‘natural disaster’, considering that a delayed or inadequate response can lead to significant economic damage for the country. Without adequate training, enforcement of regulations on invasive species remains ineffective. One of the biggest challenges we face is the lack of awareness and technical expertise to identify and control invasive species. Hands-on training, case studies and study visits are particularly important in the future for effective capacity building, especially in the area of proposing control measures and risk assessments.” – Ana Pavicevic, UNOPS expert in Capacity building on permitting and control procedures of alien and invasive alien species of plants, animals and fungi

The assignment directly supports SDG: 15 Life on Land by promoting the effective management of alien and invasive alien species, ultimately safeguarding biodiversity.

The assignment also supports SDG 3: Good Health and Well Being Having specifically by limiting the adverse effects of invasive fungi on human health.

Finally, the assignment supports SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth by limiting the adverse effects on the economy related to alien and invasive alien species.