Croatia strengthens workplace safety and cancer patient employment rights

In 2024 Croatia recorded over 17,700 workplace injuries, prompting the Labour Inspectorate to enforce strict occupational safety rules. Employers must prepare and regularly update risk assessments, provide training, inspect equipment, and maintain records. Non‑compliance can attract fines ranging from €4,000 to €13,000.

A parliamentary round‑table addressed the specific challenges faced by oncology patients, noting that about 70 new cancer cases are diagnosed daily in Croatia. Participants highlighted frequent discrimination, lack of workplace adjustments for 46% of patients, and fears of job loss. Comparisons were made with practices in Romania, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom, where sick‑pay and tailored support aim to facilitate a quicker return to work. Lawmakers called for greater legal protection and flexible sick‑leave provisions to safeguard the employment rights of cancer‑affected workers.