Montenegrin citizens have opted for change by giving a majority to the opposition in Sunday’s election, most likely ending 30 years of one-party rule in the country. Democracy has won, many would say, but the situation is not black and white.

Amid tears, disbelief, euphoria and nationalist symbols in the streets, a big part of both the Montenegrin and international public is wondering in which direction Montenegro is headed and what it means for its European path and foreign policy priorities.

Briefly about the results: together, the coalition ‘For the Future of Montenegro’ led by the Democratic Front, DF, the Democrats and the coalition ‘Black on White’ led by the civic movement URA won 41 of the 81 seats in parliament. The ruling Democratic Party of Socialists, DPS, won 30, and can count on the support of only 10 more from its traditional allies, meaning it is short of a majority.

The result followed protests, controversies and disagreements over the Law on Freedom of Religion and the strong engagement on the ground of the Serbian Orthodox Church, SPC.