Dubrovnik Animal Shelter Audit Exposes Financial Mismanagement and Lack of Accountability

An internal audit of the Dubrovnik animal shelter (Azil Dubrovnik) uncovered extensive irregularities in its operations and finances. The review found no reliable records of employee attendance, with staff listed as present while on sick leave or vacation, and unrecorded overtime that was later paid out. Official vehicle usage was undocumented, and private or hired cars were used for animal transport with travel expenses miscalculated. Procurement processes were opaque, external accounting and website services were overpaid without proper contracts, and overall financial documentation was incomplete and non‑transparent. The audit cites insufficient knowledge of legal regulations and weak managerial control, issuing 31 recommendations for corrective action.

Local officials from the Srđ group highlighted the public nature of the institution, stressing that taxpayer money must be managed with higher standards. They questioned why no sanctions have been imposed and why responsible managers are merely reassigned, noting the current acting director’s remark, “I do not want to deal with people or look for blame.” Critics argue the shelter operates as if it can spend “like a drunken millionaire,” calling for accountability and systematic reforms.

The audit’s findings have prompted calls for greater transparency, proper sanctions, and improved internal controls to protect public funds.