Marko Perković Thompson awarded honorary citizenship of Rab

The City Council of Rab has awarded the 2026 honorary citizenship charter to singer Marko Perković Thompson. The city stated the recognition expresses gratitude for his musical work, which they say is strongly connected to the Homeland War and the preservation of memories regarding the creation of the Republic of Croatia.

The decision has sparked significant controversy. Opera singer Dunja Vejzović Crnković, who had received the title of honorary citizen of Rab in April 2026, has resigned from the position in protest. Crnković stated she refused to share the honor due to moral reasons, noting that patriotism should be an ethical category involving care for culture and humanism rather than ideological demonstration.

Thompson's recognition follows various controversies and scandals involving the use of certain political symbols at his concerts.