How Does Moscow Influence the Pro-European Course in Montenegro? The Role of the Church

Abstract

This article examines the political influence of the Serbian Orthodox Church (SOC) in Montenegro as a local actor in light of shifting geopolitical circumstances and Russia’s opposition to Western integration strategies. How does Russia use the SOC to influence Montenegro’s divergence from the European Union? The authors examine the SOC as the most influential Russophile non-state actor and its instrumentalization in the hybrid threat context, with a role in Russia’s efforts to deepen divisions and strengthen anti-Euro-Atlantic sentiments in Montenegro through various means, including misinformation and propaganda. The analysis of selected discourse and documents considers the SOC in Montenegro and its spoiler and proxy narratives and activities that undermine not only the European integration process but also Montenegro’s position as an independent state. The article further examines the co-optation of religious and local pro-Russian actors and finds that the SOC remains a prominent actor in domestic politics in Montenegro.