Croatia Forms New Government Including Far-Right Party Ahead of EU Parliamentary Vote

In a significant political shift, Croatian lawmakers have inaugurated a new government, indicating a move towards the right within the European Union nation. This development comes as the EU prepares for its parliamentary elections next month. The government, still under the leadership of the conservative Croatian Democratic Union (HDZ), now welcomes the hard-right Homeland Movement into its fold. This inclusion follows an inconclusive parliamentary election in April, where the Homeland Movement emerged as a crucial player.

The Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic for his third consecutive term, received approval with a 79-61 vote in the Croatian assembly, known as the Sabor. Despite HDZ securing the most votes in the April 17 election, it fell short of a majority, necessitating a coalition. This slim majority hints at potential political instability after years of HDZ dominance.

Plenkovic's administration aims to prioritize economic growth and modernization. Croatia, which joined the EU in 2013 with one of its weakest economies, has made significant strides, including joining the single currency market last year. The nation heavily relies on tourism, especially along its picturesque Adriatic Sea coastline.

For the first time in years, the government does not include a party representing Croatia's ethnic Serb minority. This exclusion follows objections from the Homeland Movement and raises concerns about disrupting the ethnic balance established after the 1991-95 Serb-Croatian war. Plenkovic assured that his government would protect the rights of national minorities and ensure all citizens feel respected and protected.

However, Anja Šimpraga from the Independent Democratic Serb Party (SDSS) expressed concerns about increasing radicalization. Sandra Bencic of the left-green Mozemo (We Can) party criticized what she sees as divisive nationalism fueled by the Homeland Movement. This party, composed of radical nationalists and social conservatives who left HDZ, is led by Vukovar's hard-line mayor. It has called for ending state financing for Novosti, a liberal news outlet funded by the Serb minority budget. Following threats against Novosti journalists, labeled as state enemies by some, the Croatian Journalists Association has demanded action from authorities.

The Homeland Movement also advocates for traditional gender roles in Croatia's predominantly Catholic and conservative society, where access to abortion is already challenging for women. With HDZ at the helm since Croatia's independence and its recent integration into key EU structures like the eurozone and passport-free travel area, this shift towards hard-right and populist governance mirrors broader trends across Europe. As the continent grapples with challenges such as war in Ukraine, climate emergencies, and migration issues, these parties seem poised to gain traction in the upcoming European Parliament elections scheduled for June 6-9.