Croatian women’s groups stage nationwide protests demanding stronger anti-violence laws
Women’s organisations marched in 17 Croatian cities, calling for gender-based violence to be treated as a criminal offence and for a dedicated law to protect victims.
On Monday, women’s NGOs organized symbolic protests in 17 towns across Croatia, using the tagline “While the Minister Sheds Light, Women Remain in the Dark” to criticize Family and Social Policy Minister Alen Ruzic’s comments following a femicide in Slatina. The groups called for gender-based violence to be moved from misdemeanor treatment to the criminal justice system, a dedicated law covering all forms of such violence, and a unified, mandatory risk-assessment framework with specialized training for all officials involved.
They highlighted the need for systemic change rather than isolated explanations, demanding accountability for the lapses that allowed the Slatina killing and other femicides to occur. Participants also referenced the National Day Against Violence Against Women on September 22 and recalled the 19 women killed the previous year, many of whom were already known to police for prior abuse. The protests spanned major cities including Zagreb, Split, Rijeka, and smaller towns such as Pakrac, emphasizing a nationwide call for comprehensive protection measures.
Why it matters
The protests pressure Croatia to overhaul its legal and institutional response to gender-based violence.
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