Croatia's Minister Alen Ružić waives debts for inclusive benefit recipients

Croatia's Minister of Labour, Pensions, Family and Social Policy Alen Ružić issued new guidance that stops the state from demanding repayment of over‑paid inclusive benefits. The rule applies to roughly 2,400 people who had been asked to return thousands of euros after their benefit amounts were reduced due to improved health conditions. Delays in decisions by the Croatian Institute for Social Welfare often meant recipients received higher payments for months before the reduced amount was confirmed, creating debts that many could not afford.

Under the new instruction, existing debts will be written off and any money already repaid will be returned to beneficiaries. Payments of the revised benefit will begin from the month the new decision is issued, ensuring financial security for the most vulnerable groups.