Croatian opposition decries anti‑inflation policies as burden on citizens

Opposition parties in Croatia – SDP, Možemo! and Most – have criticised the government’s anti‑inflation package as a set of austerity measures that shift the burden onto small‑business owners, retirees and households. Law‑maker Miro Bulj warned that new taxes and fees raise the cost of living for artisans and entrepreneurs, while SDP leader Siniša Hajdaš Dončić said the programme “does not fight inflation but cuts the most vulnerable”. Critics also demanded a state housing fund, higher taxes on extra profits of banks and large retailers, and a reversal of frozen social benefits.

A recent RTL‑commissioned survey shows that although wages have risen, 72 % of respondents feel their standard of living has worsened, with many cutting back on restaurant visits, travel and cultural outings. Parallel local protests have emerged, such as activists and city councilors opposing the removal of historic linden trees from Zagreb’s Ban Jelačić Square, arguing for alternative plans that preserve urban green space.