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Protesters in Gospić: 'They have poisoned the water, the soil and the air'
Slovenia🏛️ PoliticsCenter7 days ago

Protesters in Gospić: 'They have poisoned the water, the soil and the air'

A protest took place in Gospić, Croatia, against illegal waste dumping that has contaminated land, groundwater, and air. The protest was held ahead of a parliamentary committee meeting on environmental protection, which had been postponed due to wildfires in the areas of Omiš and Pelješec. The Croatian Agency for Prevention of Corruption and Organized Crime (Uskok) reported in August that approximately 37,000 tons of mixed waste in the area of Lik were polluting soil and groundwater. Local activists, including organizer Mile Ilć, criticized the failure of institutions to address the issue, stating that if they had done their jobs, the situation would not exist. Waste from Slovenia, Italy, and Germany has been discovered in multiple locations across Croatia, though it has not yet been removed. Analysis by Zagreb’s Geotechnical Faculty confirmed the pollution and health risks. The issue has broader implications, with concerns over potential contamination of drinking water up to the Sibenik region and islands like Pag and Rab. While the Croatian Public Health Institute stated that water quality remains acceptable, the case remains under criminal investigation involving at least 17涉案人员

Croatia has launched an investigation into illegal dumping of hazardous waste, including material originating from Slovenia, across multiple regions. The issue, according to media reports, is linked to a criminal network involving waste from Italy, Germany, and Slovenia. The dumped waste was falsely classified as plastic suitable for recycling, with some samples containing remnants of medical and other hazardous materials. Environmental analyses have revealed that approximately 37,000 tons of waste were illegally disposed of near Gospić in Lika, with harmful substances already infiltrating soil and groundwater. These contaminants are mixed with earth, making them difficult to separate and remove, according to Dnevnik.hr. Environmental experts warn that without remediation efforts, the area will remain a source of pollution that could continue spreading and affecting both the environment and public health. Particularly concerning is contamination of the underground water table. Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković emphasized during a government and coalition partners meeting that current measurements do not indicate that drinking water in Lika is threatened. He stated that the Public Health Institute will test water samples every three to four days and publish results publicly. “Water is good and of high quality, suitable for use and consumption,” Plenković said, adding he would drink it himself. He criticized public and opposition responses as exaggerated, claiming they spread misinformation to create panic among residents, which he believes political opponents aim to exploit. Independent MP Marija Selak Raspudić called on opposition parties to jointly submit a motion of no confidence against Plenković. She proposed convening an extraordinary session of parliament and legislative changes defining ecological destruction as the most serious crime against the environment. Plenković divided the situation into three levels: legal, related to the cleanup of waste, and political. Details of the legal proceedings, however, remained unclear due to their nature. According to government data, around 32,000 tons of waste are buried underground, while approximately 5,000 tons lie on the surface. A public call for cleanup was issued, but no one responded to the initial announcement. Authorities reiterated the call, extending the deadline to August 25. President Zoran Milanović demanded immediate action after the findings of the expert opinion, labeling illegal disposal of hazardous waste as a criminal act and urging responsible authorities to explain why no one has yet taken responsibility. The removal of buried waste proves more challenging, as authorities classify these materials as dangerous. Croatia lacks appropriate facilities for their treatment, prompting searches for foreign contractors. The Environment and Energy Efficiency Agency has contacted approximately 70 companies across Europe potentially capable of participating in the removal and proper processing of the waste. While the government aims to expedite procedures, Plenković could not specify how long the entire cleanup might take. He assured that the state will seek reimbursement of cleanup costs from those found responsible in the criminal process, as reported by Jutarnji list. A particular question remains regarding how large quantities of waste managed to reach the area over several years without being promptly stopped by relevant institutions. Investigators are examining the role of former chief state inspector and member of the ruling HDZ party Andrija Mikulić, who is suspected of receiving bribes. All allegations will be decided through the appropriate judicial process. Plenković confirmed that the import began in 2019. Although authorities noticed that waste was arriving on the site, they did not intervene promptly.

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6 reports

RTV Slovenija (MMC) logoRTV Slovenija (MMC)State / PublicProgressiveFactual 98Objective 957 days ago
In Gospić, protest against illegal waste disposal: "If we save Lika, we save Croatia"

In Gospić, Croatia, over 100 people protested against the illegal dumping of hazardous waste in Lika, carrying signs such as 'They sold Lika and folded it into darkness' and 'They poisoned water, soil, and air'. The protest took place ahead of a parliamentary committee meeting on environmental protection and nature conservation, which was postponed due to fires in Omis and Pelješac. The Croatian Agency for Prevention of Corruption and Organized Crime (USKOK) reported that approximately 37,000 tons of mixed waste have contaminated land and groundwater in the area. Local activists, including organizer Mile Ilić, claimed that all institutions have failed to address the issue, warning that if Croatian institutions performed their duties, the situation would not exist. Analysis by Zagreb’s geotechnical faculty confirmed the contamination risks, with some concerns extending to drinking water quality up to the Sinj region and islands like Pag and Rab. Although the case remains under criminal investigation involving at least 17 individuals, the scandal has gained political dimensions, with opposition calling for a vote of no confidence in Prime Minister Andrej Plenković.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the illegal waste dumping as a systemic failure of Croatian institutions, emphasizing the role of political leaders and suggesting corruption or negligence. It highlights the involvement of multiple countries (Slovenia, Italy, Germany) and criticizes the government's inability to

Why factuality (98): The article provides specific details such as the date of the protest (16 August 2026), the location (Gospić, Croatia), the number of participants (over 100 people), and the content of the protesters' signs. It also references the USKOK report from 6 August stating approximately 37,000 tons of mixed

Why objectivity (95): The article presents the information in a largely neutral manner, reporting on the protest, the USKOK findings, and statements from organizers like Mile Ilić. The tone remains objective, avoiding overtly emotional or biased language, though it does include quotes from protest organizers.

24ur (POP TV) logo24ur (POP TV)IndependentProgressiveFactual 97Objective 947 days ago
Protesters in Gospić: 'They have poisoned the water, the soil and the air'

A protest took place in Gospić, Croatia, against illegal waste dumping that has contaminated land, groundwater, and air. The protest was held ahead of a parliamentary committee meeting on environmental protection, which had been postponed due to wildfires in the areas of Omiš and Pelješec. The Croatian Agency for Prevention of Corruption and Organized Crime (Uskok) reported in August that approximately 37,000 tons of mixed waste in the area of Lik were polluting soil and groundwater. Local activists, including organizer Mile Ilć, criticized the failure of institutions to address the issue, stating that if they had done their jobs, the situation would not exist. Waste from Slovenia, Italy, and Germany has been discovered in multiple locations across Croatia, though it has not yet been removed. Analysis by Zagreb’s Geotechnical Faculty confirmed the pollution and health risks. The issue has broader implications, with concerns over potential contamination of drinking water up to the Sibenik region and islands like Pag and Rab. While the Croatian Public Health Institute stated that water quality remains acceptable, the case remains under criminal investigation involving at least 17涉案人员

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the issue as a systemic failure of institutions and highlights criticism of the government and Prime Minister Andrej Plenković. It emphasizes the role of political opposition calling for no-confidence votes, suggesting a left-leaning perspective on institutional accountability and

Why factuality (97): This article accurately reports the protest in Gospić, the delay in the parliamentary committee meeting due to fires in Omiš and Pelješac, and the USKOK report on 37,000 tons of waste. It also mentions the involvement of political figures and the potential wider environmental impact. All these point

Why objectivity (94): The article maintains an objective tone by presenting both the concerns raised by the protest organizers and the official response from the Croatian Public Health Institute regarding water safety. However, it slightly leans toward emphasizing the severity of the issue through the inclusion of quotes

Siol.net logoSiol.netState / PublicCenterFactual 96Objective 937 days ago
In Gospić, protest against illegal dumping of hazardous waste

A protest took place in Gospić, Croatia, over the illegal dumping of hazardous waste in the area of Lika, with hundreds of people participating. Protesters held signs criticizing the contamination of water, soil, and air, and emphasized the need to save Lika to save Croatia. The demonstration occurred before a parliamentary committee meeting on environmental protection, which was postponed due to fires in nearby areas. According to a report by Croatia’s anti-corruption agency Uskok, approximately 37,000 tons of mixed waste have been illegally dumped in Lika, polluting the ground and groundwater. Local activists have raised concerns about potential health risks and environmental damage, noting that the waste comes from Slovenia, Italy, and Germany. While the Croatian Institute of Public Health claims drinking water remains safe, the issue has sparked political debate, with opposition calling for a vote of no confidence against Prime Minister Andrej Plenković.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a factual account of the protest, citing reports from anti-corruption agencies and environmental organizations, while including quotes from both protesters and officials. It does not favor any particular political side but highlights the growing political implications of the sit

Why factuality (96): The article accurately describes the protest in Gospić, the USKOK report on 37,000 tons of waste, and the involvement of political figures. It also includes the geographical origin of the waste (Slovenia, Italy, Germany) and the potential broader environmental consequences. While slightly less detai

Why objectivity (93): The article is generally neutral but shows a slight tilt towards highlighting the environmental risks and the failure of institutions, based on the quotes included. This gives it a marginally more activist-oriented tone compared to the others, though it remains mostly balanced.

24ur (POP TV) logo24ur (POP TV)IndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 6510 days ago
Tens of thousands of tonnes of hazardous waste: drinking water at risk in Pag and Raba?

An analysis by Zagreb's Faculty of Geotechnical Engineering has revealed that approximately 37,000 tons of illegally dumped waste in Gospić, Croatia, are contaminating soil and groundwater, posing risks to both the environment and human health. While the Croatian Institute for Public Health claims drinking water in Gospić is safe, a local initiative called 'Gospić je naš dom' argues that this assurance does not apply to downstream areas such as Otočac, Senj, Pag, and Rab. The initiative highlights concerns over harmful substances like PFAS chemicals, which could spread through karst aquifers, threatening broader water systems. These findings have sparked calls for immediate cleanup and accountability, with some demanding Prime Minister Andrej Plenković's resignation. Plenković dismissed these concerns as panic fueled by misinformation, while analysts suggest his response might be pushing opposition parties toward unity.

Bias read (Center): The article presents multiple perspectives, scientific findings, official assurances, and activist concerns, without overtly favoring any side. It includes direct quotes from various stakeholders, including the government, activists, and analysts, providing a balanced view of the situation.

Why factuality (85): The article reports on environmental concerns related to illegal waste dumping in Croatia, citing a study from Zagreb’s geotechnical faculty indicating around 37,000 tons of hazardous waste affecting groundwater and soil in Gospić. It references public health assurances from the Croatian Health Insp

Why objectivity (65): The tone leans towards highlighting public concern and skepticism toward official assurances, suggesting potential bias. While it presents both sides (official assessments vs. citizen groups), the emphasis on the citizens’ doubts may reflect a more critical stance than purely objective reporting.

Delo logoDeloIndependent🔒CenterFactual 85Objective 6512 days ago
Illegal dumping of hazardous waste, including from Slovenia

The article reports on a major environmental scandal in Croatia involving illegal dumping of hazardous waste across multiple regions, linked to a criminal network. The waste, including medical and other dangerous materials, has been illegally disposed of by countries such as Italy, Germany, and Slovenia. Environmental analyses reveal over 37,000 tons of waste were dumped in the area of Gospić in Lika, with harmful substances already contaminating soil and groundwater. Experts warn that without remediation efforts, the area remains a pollution source affecting both the environment and human health. While the Croatian Prime Minister, Andrej Plenković, asserts that drinking water in the region is safe based on current tests, he criticizes public and opposition reactions as exaggerated and politically motivated. Independent MP Marija Selak Raspudić calls for a vote of no confidence in Plenković and suggests urgent legislative changes to define ecological destruction as the most severe crime against the environment.

Bias read (Center): While the article presents a serious environmental issue with potential political implications, it does not exhibit clear ideological leaning. It includes balanced reporting on both the scientific findings and the political responses, with no evident favoring of one side over another. The framing is

Why factuality (85): The article provides specific details such as the amount of waste (over ten thousand tons) and locations (Gospić in Lika), which align with the general consensus found in other reports. It also mentions the involvement of a criminal network and the presence of hazardous medical waste, which are comm

Why objectivity (65): The article presents information from experts and officials but includes quotes from Premier Plenković that suggest a dismissive attitude toward public concerns. This framing can be seen as biased in favor of the government’s position. The mention of opposition spreading misinformation introduces a

Delo logoDeloIndependent🔒ConservativeFactual 80Objective 6012 days ago
Croatia's underground mine hit by toxic waste, also from Slovenia

An environmental crisis in Croatia involving illegal dumping of hazardous waste, including some from Slovenia, has sparked concern over contamination of groundwater and soil. Investigations reveal approximately 37,000 tons of waste, including medical and other dangerous materials, have been illegally disposed of in the area of Gospić in Lika, with harmful substances already leaching into the ground and underground water. Experts warn that without remediation efforts, the pollution could spread further, affecting both the environment and human health. Premier Andrej Plenković has dismissed concerns as exaggerated, claiming tap water remains safe and accusing the opposition of spreading misinformation to gain political advantage. Meanwhile, independent MP Marija Selak Raspudić has called for a vote of no confidence in Plenković and proposed emergency sessions and legal reforms to classify ecological destruction as the most serious crime against the environment.

Bias read (Conservative): The article frames the issue through the lens of political accountability, emphasizing Premier Plenković’s dismissal of public concerns and his accusation that the opposition is using fear-mongering for political gain. The narrative downplays the severity of the environmental threat by asserting the

Why factuality (80): This article confirms the presence of illegal waste dumping involving thousands of tons from Slovenia, Italy, and Germany, referencing analyses showing contamination of soil and groundwater in Gospić. It mentions political statements by Premier Plenković defending water safety, which aligns with bro

Why objectivity (60): The article includes political commentary from Premier Plenković, which introduces a partisan perspective. While it presents opposing viewpoints (citizen concerns vs. government reassurance), the inclusion of political rhetoric reduces overall objectivity.

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