Željko Šturanović (Жељко Штурановић; 31 January 1960 – 30 June 2014) was a Montenegrin politician and lawyer who led the government of Montenegro in the immediate post‑independence period. A member of the Democratic Party of Socialists, he served as Prime Minister of Montenegro from 10 November 2006 until his resignation on 29 February 2008 for health reasons.

Early life and education

Šturanović was born in Nikšić when the region formed part of the Federal People's Republic of Yugoslavia. He studied law at the University of Montenegro, graduating from its Faculty of Law and developing a professional background in legal affairs before entering full‑time politics. His legal training provided a foundation for his work in public administration and party structures.

Political career

Throughout his career Šturanović was closely associated with the Democratic Party of Socialists, the main political force in Montenegro during much of the late 20th and early 21st centuries. He occupied a number of roles in government and within the party that prepared him for national leadership.

  • Longstanding member of the Democratic Party of Socialists and participant in party governance.
  • Held legal and administrative posts in state institutions prior to becoming prime minister.
  • Appointed to head the national government during a period of institutional consolidation after independence.

Prime ministership

Assuming office on 10 November 2006, Šturanović led a cabinet charged with consolidating Montenegrin institutions after the May 2006 independence referendum. His government focused on administrative reform, maintaining economic stability and advancing efforts toward European integration. The administration aimed to adapt state institutions to the responsibilities of an independent country while preserving continuity in governance.

Illness, resignation and death

In early 2008 Šturanović stepped down from the prime ministership citing health concerns; his resignation was connected to a serious illness. He later battled lung cancer and withdrew from frontline politics. Šturanović died on 30 June 2014 at the age of 54 and was survived by his wife and two children.

Legacy and significance

Although his time as head of government was relatively brief, Šturanović is remembered as a transitional figure who steered Montenegro through the early stages of statehood following independence. His term is often noted for efforts to maintain institutional continuity and to keep European integration on the political agenda. Accounts of Montenegro's political development frequently reference his service during a formative period.