In its 6th report on Croatia, also published in Croatian, the Council of Europe’s European Commission against Racism and Intolerance (ECRI) notes encouraging steps in civic education, hate speech prevention, and Roma inclusion, while urging the government to take firmer action against hate speech, discrimination, and racial profiling.
Among positive developments since its previous evaluation, ECRI commends Croatia for having strengthened civic education through cross-curricular reforms, with local models such as Rijeka’s elective programme receiving positive feedback from students and educators.
Integration efforts for displaced persons from Ukraine, including expedited access to language classes and schooling for children, were praised as good practices.
Inclusion policies for Roma communities have also moved forward. ECRI notes increased support for legalising housing, infrastructure development, and expanding access to community centres offering social services. Efforts to reduce dropout rates through scholarship schemes and educational awards demonstrate a growing commitment to educational opportunity for all.
Awareness-raising initiatives and citizen-led responses to hate speech are welcomed. Public campaigns promoting diversity and countering hate speech, including a video initiative led by the Croatian Football Federation, were positively received.
ECRI also notes the positive role of Ombudsperson institutions, which enjoy public trust and have actively condemned hate speech while offering guidance on inclusive policies. Strengthening the legal powers and financial support for these bodies could further enhance their impact.
Nevertheless, concerns persist. LGBTI persons continue to face widespread prejudice and discrimination, with legal gender recognition described as burdensome and overly medicalised.
Hate speech – particularly against Roma, ethnic Serbs and LGBTI people – remains pervasive in public events, online spaces, and political discourse.
Roma communities still experience residential segregation, poor health access, and reduced life expectancy.
ECRI highlights potential racial profiling by law enforcement officials and underreporting of hate crimes as issues that need to be looked into.
The report also identifies the need for a comprehensive national strategy on migrant integration – one that builds upon successful local efforts.
ECRI proposes targeted measures to advance inclusion and address remaining gaps, including the following key recommendations:
• Improve the legal gender recognition process by ensuring it is quick, transparent, and not dependent on invasive or abusive medical requirements.
• Encourage public figures to take a firm stance against racist and LGBTI-phobic hate speech and react with counter-speech and alternative speech.
• Develop housing desegregation programmes to support the voluntary relocation of Roma families from segregated settlements and promote inclusive neighbourhoods.
ECRI also asks Croatia to prioritise two areas for follow-up over the next two years: the development of a national integration strategy for beneficiaries of international protection and other migrants and enhanced healthcare access for Roma populations. Progress in these areas will be reviewed in 2027.
