Croats’ lack of optimism fiercely debated

The Gallup Europe and European Fund for the Balkans roadshow – this time in cooperation with the Academy for Political Development – reached Zagreb on Thursday, January 21; a lively debate – introduced by EFB Executive Director Hedvig Morvai-Horvat and moderated by Croatian journalist Neven Santic – ensued around the subject of Croatia’s lack of enthusiasm as it approached the goal of EU membership. Indeed, the latest Gallup Balkan Monitor survey results, presented at the event by Gallup Europe CEO Robert Manchin, had shown Croats to be some of the West Balkans’ gloomiest citizens. The audience – including ambassadors, representatives of civil society and government, and EFB Alumni network members – then heard short introductions by EFB Executive Director, Hedvig Morvai-Horvat, Executive Director of the Academy for Political Development, Nevena Crljenko and Head of Delegation of the EU to the Republic of Croatia, Paul Vandoren. Drawing on his experience in Croatia, Vandoren argued that Croatian scepticism – as shown in the GBM results – had to be viewed in the context of the global economic crisis. Professor, Faculty of Law, Zagreb, Josip Kregar, was surprised that the survey results indicated that a high number of Croats wanted to stay in the country (75% would certainly or probably be in the country in 12 months time) despite the fact that Croatia was seen to be heading in a bad direction (84% agreed). Srdjan Dvornik, Publicist, discussed reasons why Croats might be dissatisfied and also looked at how the survey showed potential for development in several areas.