Developed by RTCG with support from “Innovation. Media. Minds:Support to Public Service Journalism in the Western Balkans” Programme, the studio strengthens RTCG’s capacity to produce local and Albanian-language content, while opening new possibilities for cooperation with Radio Television of Kosovo (RTK) and Albanian Radio Television (RTSH).

The regional cooperation dimension was formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding between RTCG, RTK and RTSH, establishing the basis for the use of the Ulcinj studio as a shared space for public service media cooperation. The agreement aims to strengthen exchange, joint production and cooperation among the three broadcasters, building on shared language, cultural ties and common regional interests.

The significance of the initiative has also been highlighted by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), which described the Ulcinj studio as a shared space for three public service broadcasters — RTCG, RTSH and RTK — and as “the first initiative of its kind in Europe.” This external recognition underlines the wider importance of the studio: not only as a new RTCG production space, but also as a pioneering model of public service media cooperation across borders.

Located in one of Montenegro’s most multicultural municipalities, the new studio offers a space for local voices, intercultural dialogue and stories that connect communities across borders. Ulcinj has long been a place of encounter between cultures, languages and communities. The studio will help reflect this diversity more strongly in public service media and give greater visibility to local stories, perspectives and issues of public interest.For RTCG, the studio represents an important step in strengthening its regional presence and expanding its ability to serve all citizens of Montenegro. By improving coverage of issues that matter to communities in Ulcinj and the surrounding area, it contributes to more inclusive, relevant and accessible public service journalism.

At the same time, the Ulcinj studio goes beyond national broadcasting. As a platform for cooperation between RTCG, RTK and RTSH, it creates a practical framework for cross-border exchange, joint production, cultural dialogue and regional news coverage. It brings together three public service broadcasters, three audiences and shared regional stories in a space designed to support cooperation beyond borders.

“Programmes may come to an end, but their real value lies in what remains. The RTCG Regional Media Studio in Ulcinj is a tangible example of the impact of “Innovation. Media. Minds” Programme,  a lasting space for local voices, regional cooperation and inclusive public service journalism,” said Georgia Trismpioti, Regional Team Leader of IMM Programme.

This is particularly important as the IMM programme approaches its closing phase. Programmes may end, but their value lies in what remains: stronger capacities, new partnerships, sustainable infrastructure and public service journalism that continues to respond to the needs of citizens.The Ulcinj studio stands as part of this legacy — not only as a technical investment, but as a lasting space for local voices, intercultural dialogue and regional public service media cooperation.

“Innovation. Media. Minds” Programme is an EU-funded regional initiative supporting public service journalism in the Western Balkans, managed by the Goethe-Institut in close collaboration with DW Akademie.