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European Day of Remembrance for the victims of all totalitarian and authoritarian regimes
Croatia🏛️ PoliticsCenter8/23/2026

European Day of Remembrance for the victims of all totalitarian and authoritarian regimes

Today marks the European Day of Remembrance for the Victims of All Totalitarian and Authoritarian Regimes, including Nazism, Fascism, and Communism. Croatia has observed this day since 2011, aligning itself with most EU member states to reflect on sensitive and complex questions of shared history. The new Law on Public Holidays, effective January 1, 2020, officially recognizes this day under the name 'European Day of Remembrance for the Victims of All Totalitarian and Authoritarian Regimes.' This initiative aims to preserve historical memory so future generations can learn from it and build societies based on democracy and respect for fundamental rights. The European Parliament recommended that each country adapt the timing and manner of commemoration according to their own history and traditions. Croatia joined Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Slovenia, and Sweden in observing August 23rd, while other EU members observe January 27th, International Holocaust Remembrance Day. The European Day was established by a declaration from the European Parliament in September 2008 and confirmed by a resolution in April 2009. Croatia’s alignment with these resolutions emphasizes the importance of a

On 23 August, Croatia marked the European Day of Remembrance for Victims of Totalitarian and Authoritarian Regimes with ceremonies held in several locations across the country. In Rijeka, Deputy Mayor Aleksandar-Saša Milaković and Acting Head of the City Administration Office Vlatka Car Prijić laid wreaths at the Kozala City Cemetery, paying tribute to victims of Nazism, fascism, and communism. Independent city council member Enea Dessardo also participated in the ceremony. The event was part of a broader effort to honor millions who suffered under totalitarian regimes during the 20th century. The European Day of Remembrance, also known as the Black Ribbon Day, commemorates the signing of the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact in 1939, a non-aggression treaty between Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union that included secret protocols dividing spheres of influence in Eastern Europe. This day serves as a reminder of the atrocities committed under totalitarian systems and emphasizes the importance of democracy, human rights, and fundamental freedoms. In addition to Rijeka, the commemoration took place in other parts of Croatia, including the island of Goli Otok. There, President of the Croatian Parliament Gordan Jandroković addressed attendees, emphasizing that Goli Otok symbolizes the crimes of communist Yugoslavia. He noted that many Croats had suffered under all three totalitarian regimes, Nazism, fascism, and communism, and stressed the need to remember these tragedies to prevent their recurrence. Jandroković criticized attempts to romanticize Yugoslavia's history, stating that it was a dictatorship that persecuted its political opponents through various means, including imprisonment, forced labor, and execution. At the memorial site on Goli Otok, Jandroković placed wreaths and lit candles before monuments honoring victims of the communist regime. He also visited sites related to the fascist Italian concentration camp Kampor, where approximately 15,000 people, mostly Croats, Slovenes, and Jews, were detained. Estimates suggest that between 1,500 and 4,000 individuals perished there due to harsh conditions and starvation. Jandroković expressed disappointment at the absence of representatives from left-wing political parties at the ceremony, noting that they often fail to attend similar events such as those commemorating victims of the Ustasha regime or the Bleiburg tragedy. He called on all political actors to treat all victims equally and to condemn all forms of totalitarianism without exception. In Soboli, representatives from the local government, the Association of Croatian Volunteers of the Homeland War, and the HDZ party gathered to pay respects to victims of fascism, Nazism, and communism. A solemn mass was held in Jelenje, led by priest Tomislav Ćurić, who emphasized the importance of remembering the past to build a more just future. The event also highlighted the role of local communities in preserving historical memory, particularly in areas affected by wartime atrocities. Croatia has been actively participating in the European Day of Remembrance since 2011, aligning itself with other EU countries such as Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Slovenia, and Sweden. The observance of this day was formalized in Croatia through new legislation enacted in January 2020, which designates 23 August as the European Day of Remembrance for Victims of All Totalitarian and Authoritarian Regimes. This decision reflects Croatia’s commitment to reflecting on its complex historical legacy and promoting democratic values. The European Parliament recommended that each member state commemorate the victims of totalitarian regimes according to its own historical context and traditions. Croatia, along with several other EU members, chose 23 August for this purpose, while others observe 27 January, International Holocaust Remembrance Day. As part of efforts to promote a shared European culture of remembrance, plans are underway to construct a pan-European memorial in Brussels, dedicated to the millions who suffered under totalitarian ideologies in the 20th century. The Croatian government has pledged a financial contribution of €70,000 towards this project, underscoring its commitment to honoring the victims of all forms of tyranny. In Zagreb, Archbishop Dražen Kutleša urged authorities to be consistent in their approach to all victims of totalitarian regimes, emphasizing that justice must be served for all. He criticized the lack of accountability for perpetrators of communist-era crimes, noting that many had received honors rather than facing consequences for their actions. Kutleša called for a unified stance in recognizing the suffering of all victims, regardless of the regime responsible. Across Croatia, the commemorative events served as a powerful reminder of the country’s historical struggles against oppression and the ongoing importance of safeguarding democratic principles. These ceremonies not only honored the dead but also reinforced the resolve to ensure that such atrocities are never repeated.

How this report was made. Objective News wrote this report from 7 source articles, using AI-assisted synthesis under our methodology. It is our own text, not a copy of any single outlet. Read our methodology.

Responsible editor: Matej BašaSpotted an error? Report it

11 reports

N1 Hrvatska logoN1 HrvatskaIndependentProgressiveFactual 100Objective 1008/23/2026
Jandroković: The naked island is one of the symbols of the evil of communist Yugoslavia

On the European Day of Remembrance for Victims of Totalitarian and Authoritarian Regimes, President of the Croatian Parliament Gordan Jandrokokić spoke at Goli Otok, stating that the island symbolizes the crimes committed during communist Yugoslavia. He emphasized that Croatia and its people endured all three totalitarian regimes, Nazism, Fascism, and Communism, and highlighted the suffering of many Croats due to discrimination based on ethnicity, religion, nationality, or political beliefs. Jandroković described Goli Otok as a site where thousands were persecuted, many killed, and the regime treated opponents cruelly. He criticized those who romanticize Yugoslavia, calling it a dictatorship that suppressed political dissent, eliminated opposition, and denied freedom of speech and economic liberty. He stressed the importance of remembering these atrocities for future generations, urging young people to learn from history to prevent such tragedies from recurring and to ensure Croatia remains free, peaceful, and democratic.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the discussion around the negative legacy of communist Yugoslavia, emphasizing its authoritarian nature and the suffering under its regime. The tone is critical of any attempts to romanticize the past, which aligns with leftist historical narratives that often highlight oppression

Why factuality (100): This article provides identical factual content to item 1, accurately describing Croatia's designation of August 23rd as a memorial day for victims of totalitarian regimes, citing relevant laws and European Parliament resolutions. All information is consistent with the cross-source consensus.

Why objectivity (100): The article maintains a completely neutral tone, presenting only factual information about the commemoration event and related legislative measures without any subjective bias or emotional language.

tportal logotportalIndependentCenterFactual 100Objective 1008/23/2026
Today is the European Day of Remembrance for the Victims of Totalitarian Regimes: Croatia donates €70,000 for the memorial

Croatia has designated August 23rd as the European Day of Remembrance for Victims of Totalitarian Regimes, aligning itself with several other EU member states such as Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Slovenia, and Sweden. This decision was formalized through a new law enacted in January 2020, which recognizes August 23rd as a day to reflect on the tragedies of totalitarianism, including Nazism, Fascism, and Communism. The initiative follows recommendations by the European Parliament to encourage reflection on shared history and promote democratic values. Croatia has committed €70,000 toward the construction of a pan-European memorial in Brussels, honoring millions who suffered under undemocratic ideologies in the 20th century. The memorial will be managed by the non-profit organization 'Platform for European Memory and Conscience' and located near EU institutions.

Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about Croatia's adoption of a national remembrance day aligned with European initiatives, mentions the financial contribution to a memorial project, and quotes a government minister. There is no overtly biased language, one-sided sourcing, or omission of key,

Why factuality (100): This article provides precise details about Croatia's adoption of August 23rd as a memorial day for victims of totalitarian regimes, referencing the law enacted in 2020 and the European Parliament's resolutions. All information matches the cross-source consensus and is presented without embellishmen

Why objectivity (100): The article maintains a strictly factual and neutral tone throughout, presenting historical background, legal changes, and international comparisons without any subjective commentary or emotional language.

N1 Hrvatska logoN1 HrvatskaIndependentCenterFactual 100Objective 1008/23/2026
European Day of Remembrance for the victims of all totalitarian and authoritarian regimes

Today marks the European Day of Remembrance for the Victims of All Totalitarian and Authoritarian Regimes, including Nazism, Fascism, and Communism. Croatia has observed this day since 2011, aligning itself with most EU member states to reflect on sensitive and complex questions of shared history. The new Law on Public Holidays, effective January 1, 2020, officially recognizes this day under the name 'European Day of Remembrance for the Victims of All Totalitarian and Authoritarian Regimes.' This initiative aims to preserve historical memory so future generations can learn from it and build societies based on democracy and respect for fundamental rights. The European Parliament recommended that each country adapt the timing and manner of commemoration according to their own history and traditions. Croatia joined Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Slovenia, and Sweden in observing August 23rd, while other EU members observe January 27th, International Holocaust Remembrance Day. The European Day was established by a declaration from the European Parliament in September 2008 and confirmed by a resolution in April 2009. Croatia’s alignment with these resolutions emphasizes the importance of a

Bias read (Center): The article provides a balanced overview of Croatia's adoption of the European Day of Remembrance for victims of totalitarian regimes. It includes historical context, legal framework, international alignment, and mentions the planned construction of a pan-European memorial. There is no overtly slant

Why factuality (100): The article accurately reports on the parliamentary speaker's visit to Goli Otok and his statements about its symbolic significance regarding communist Yugoslavia. The content aligns precisely with the cross-source consensus and includes direct quotes from the speaker.

Why objectivity (100): The article remains neutral in tone, simply reporting the speaker's words and actions without adding personal opinion or biased interpretation. It presents the event as a straightforward commemorative activity.

Jutarnji list logoJutarnji listIndependentCenterFactual 100Objective 1008/23/2026
On Sunday the European Day of Remembrance for the Victims of All Totalitarian and Authoritarian Regimes

The article discusses Croatia's participation in the European Day of Remembrance for Victims of All Totalitarian and Authoritarian Regimes, observed on August 23rd. It explains that this date was established by the European Parliament through a declaration in 2008 and confirmed by a resolution in 2009. Croatia adopted this observance in 2020 via new legislation, aligning with countries like Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Slovenia, and Sweden. The purpose is to promote reflection on shared history, democratic values, and tolerance. The article mentions plans for a pan-European monument to victims of totalitarianism and notes that the government has allocated €70,000 for its construction.

Bias read (Center): The article presents information about Croatia's alignment with EU practices regarding remembrance days, focusing on historical and cultural aspects. There is no overt ideological slant or emphasis on specific political agendas. The tone remains neutral, presenting facts about legal changes and EU-Č

Why factuality (100): This article provides identical factual content to items 1 and 3, accurately describing Croatia's designation of August 23rd as a memorial day for victims of totalitarian regimes, citing relevant laws and European Parliament resolutions. All information is consistent with the cross-source consensus.

Why objectivity (100): The article maintains a completely neutral tone, presenting only factual information about the commemoration event and related legislative measures without any subjective bias or emotional language.

HRT (Hrvatska radiotelevizija) logoHRT (Hrvatska radiotelevizija)State / PublicCenterFactual 95Objective 858/23/2026
European Day of Remembrance for the victims of all totalitarian and authoritarian regimes

The article discusses Croatia's observance of the European Day of Remembrance for Victims of All Totalitarian and Authoritarian Regimes, observed on August 23rd. It explains that this date was adopted by Croatia in 2011 and formalized through legislation in 2020, aligning with the European Parliament's recommendations. The day aims to promote reflection on shared history and democratic values, encouraging future generations to learn from the past. Croatia joins countries like Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Slovenia, and Sweden in observing this day, while others commemorate the International Holocaust Memorial Day on January 27th. The article mentions plans for a pan-European monument to victims of totalitarianism and notes that Croatia has allocated €70,000 towards its construction.

Bias read (Center): The article presents information about Croatia's alignment with European Union practices regarding remembrance days, focusing on historical commemoration and democratic values. It does not take a clear ideological stance but rather reports on legislative actions and international cooperation. The ph

Why factuality (95): The article accurately reports the establishment of August 23rd as Europe Day of Remembrance for Victims of Totalitarian Regimes in Croatia, aligning with the cross-source consensus that Croatia joined most EU member states in observing this day. It provides specific dates and legal references such

Why objectivity (85): The article presents the information in a formal and informative tone, focusing on the historical and legislative background. While it does not take an overtly political stance, there is a slight emphasis on the importance of remembrance and democratic values, which may lean slightly towards a posit

Novi list logoNovi listIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 858/21/2026
European Day of Remembrance for the Victims of Totalitarian and Authoritarian Regimes marked in Rijeka

In Rijeka, Croatia, officials and local figures participated in commemorating the European Day of Remembrance for Victims of Totalitarian Regimes on August 23. The event was marked by the laying of wreaths at the city cemetery Kozala, honoring victims of Nazism, fascism, and communism. Deputy Mayor Aleksandar-Saša Milaković and interim head of the City Office Vlatko Car Prijić joined independent city councilor Enea Dessardo in this tribute. The day, known as Black Ribbon Day, commemorates the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact signed in 1939, which divided Eastern Europe between Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union. The commemoration serves to honor those who suffered under totalitarian regimes and emphasizes the importance of democracy, human rights, and fundamental freedoms.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced account of a civic commemorative event, focusing on historical remembrance without overt ideological slant. It reports on the participation of officials and highlights the significance of the event without promoting any particular political agenda. The framing remains

Why factuality (90): This article provides a factual report on the commemorative event in Rijeka, including the participation of local officials and the historical context of the European Day of Remembrance. It accurately describes the activities and the significance of the day without adding subjective interpretations.

Why objectivity (85): The article maintains a neutral and informative tone, focusing on the events and participants without introducing personal opinions or emotional language. It presents the facts objectively, emphasizing the commemoration and historical background without bias.

Novi list logoNovi listIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 758/23/2026
Day of Remembrance for Victims of Totalitarian Regimes: A Tribute to Victims of Fascism, Nazism and Communism

On August 23rd, known as the Day of Remembrance for Victims of Totalitarian Regimes, various delegations gathered at memorials in Soboli, Jelenje, Lipi, and Kostrena to honor those who suffered under fascist, Nazi, and communist regimes during the 20th century. The event was organized by local authorities, including the Municipal Council of Čavle, the Association of Croatian Volunteers of the Homeland War, and the HDZ Grobnice. A solemn mass was held in Jelenje’s church dedicated to St. Mihovil, where priest Tomislav Ćurić emphasized the importance of resisting oppressive forces. The choice of this location was symbolic due to a memorial plaque honoring priests killed during World War II. In Kostrena, the event highlighted the suffering caused by communist-era repression, while in Lipi, it focused on the impact of Nazi and Chetnik terror. Despite Croatia observing this European remembrance day for over fifteen years, the author notes that it remains largely unacknowledged across much of the political spectrum, particularly in the center-left. However, Čavle stands out as a rare example of a municipality that has formally integrated the commemoration into its statutes.

Bias read (Center): The article provides a balanced account of a commemorative event honoring victims of totalitarian regimes. It includes perspectives from multiple groups, such as local authorities, religious leaders, and veterans' associations, without overtly favoring any particular political ideology. The tone is尊

Why factuality (90): The article accurately describes the commemoration event in Soboli and mentions the participation of various groups including the local government, volunteer associations, and political parties. It provides specific locations and names of participants, aligning with the cross-source consensus that t

Why objectivity (75): The article uses emotionally charged language such as 'iskreno žalimo' (we sincerely regret) and emphasizes moral lessons from history. While it presents facts objectively, the tone leans toward sentimentality and moralizing, which slightly reduces its neutrality.

Večernji list logoVečernji listIndependentProgressiveFactual 88Objective 658/23/2026
Jandroković: 'The naked island is one of the symbols of the evil of communist Yugoslavia'

President of the Croatian Parliament, Gordan Jandroković, spoke at the European Day of Remembrance for Victims of Totalitarian and Authoritarian Regimes on Goli Otok, emphasizing that the island symbolizes the atrocities committed during communist Yugoslavia. He highlighted the suffering of thousands under all three totalitarian regimes, Nazism, Fascism, and Communism, and stressed that Croatia and its people endured these systems. Jandroković criticized attempts to romanticize Yugoslavia, calling it a dictatorship that suppressed political opponents through various means, including execution and persecution. He noted that Goli Otok was one of the symbols of evil during this period and urged younger generations to remember the past to appreciate their current freedoms.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the discussion around the negative legacy of communist Yugoslavia, highlighting systemic oppression and human rights violations. It criticizes efforts to romanticize the regime and emphasizes the importance of remembering historical injustices. The tone aligns with leftist values,

Why factuality (88): The article accurately reports Jandroković's statement that Goli Otok symbolizes the evil of communist Yugoslavia, citing the persecution and killings of tens of thousands. This aligns with historical accounts of the island's role under Yugoslav rule. The reference to the European Day of Remembrance

Why objectivity (65): The article has a clear ideological slant, emphasizing the negative aspects of communist Yugoslavia and suggesting that some people romanticize it. The language is emotionally charged, particularly when describing the 'romanticization' of Yugoslavia, which implies a judgment on those who hold such v

tportal logotportalIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 708/23/2026
Yandrokovic paid tribute to the victims of fascism and called the left: 'Here, unfortunately, I do not see them'

In a speech at the memorial site of Campor concentration camp, Croatian politician Jandroković expressed respect for victims of both fascist Italy and communist Yugoslavia, emphasizing the importance of commemorating all historical injustices. He highlighted the estimated number of victims, primarily Croats, Slovenes, and Jews, who perished there during World War II. Jandroković criticized the lack of representation from leftist political parties at such memorials, noting their absence in similar events like those commemorating victims of communist regimes. He stressed the need for national and local authorities to acknowledge these sites and educate younger generations to prevent future tragedies. The remarks reflect broader tensions over how Croatia remembers its complex wartime history.

Bias read (Center): While the article discusses sensitive historical issues and criticizes the absence of leftist representatives, it does not exhibit clear ideological slant. The focus remains on the commemoration of victims and the role of political actors in historical remembrance. The tone is balanced, presenting J

Why factuality (85): The article reports Jandroković's statements regarding commemorations at Kampor, referencing estimates of around 15,000 people in the camp and deaths between 1,500 and 4,000. These figures align with historical records of the Campor concentration camp during WWII. The article also mentions the comme

Why objectivity (70): The tone leans towards supporting the commemoration of fascist victims while subtly criticizing the focus on communist victims. The language used suggests a preference for remembering fascist atrocities over communist ones, which introduces bias. The article frames the issue as a matter of national

HRT (Hrvatska radiotelevizija) logoHRT (Hrvatska radiotelevizija)State / PublicConservativeFactual 85Objective 608/22/2026
Europe condemned Nazis and Fascists, but not Communist crimes

In a speech during a memorial service near Mostar, Zagreb Archbishop Mons. Dražen Kutleša criticized Europe for condemning Nazism and fascism but failing to address the crimes of communist regimes. He emphasized that while Nazi regimes faced trials like the Nuremberg process, communist perpetrators were often rewarded rather than punished. Kutleša called on governments to treat all victims of totalitarian regimes equally and to apply consistent moral standards. The event took place at the 'Groblje Mir' memorial complex being built in Bila, dedicated to victims of World War II and the Yugoslav Wars, where over 22,000 white crosses have been erected so far.

Bias read (Conservative): The article presents a critical view of communist regimes and their lack of accountability, using emotionally charged language such as 'grobna tišina' ('grave silence') and emphasizing the need for equal justice for all victims. It frames the issue as a failure of European moral consistency, which倾向

Why factuality (85): The article accurately reports the statements made by Mons. Dražen Kutleša regarding the lack of condemnation for communist crimes compared to Nazi and fascist regimes. It includes direct quotes from his speech and provides context about the Memorial Complex 'Groblje mira.' However, it does not prov

Why objectivity (60): The article presents the views of Mons. Kutleša but uses emotionally charged language such as 'grobna tišina' (grave silence) and references the suffering of families under communist rule. This framing may imply a bias toward condemning communist regimes more than others, even if it is based on the

Telegram.hr logoTelegram.hrIndependentConservativeFactual 75Objective 658/23/2026
Jandroković paid tribute to the victims of fascism and called the left: "I don't see representatives of the left option here"

President of the Chamber of Deputies, Gordan Jandroković, paid tribute to victims of fascist camps during the European Day of Remembrance for Victims of Totalitarian Regimes at the Kampor Memorial Cemetery on Rab. He emphasized the importance of remembering all victims of totalitarian regimes, including those of fascism and communism, and stressed that every innocent victim deserves equal recognition. Jandroković highlighted that between 1,500 and 4,000 people were killed in the Italian fascist camp in Kampor, mostly Croats, Slovenes, and Jews. He criticized the lack of representatives of the left option at the event, suggesting that the focus was primarily on commemorating victims of fascism rather than communist regimes. He called for national and local authorities to commemorate such sites and remember victims to prevent future tragedies.

Bias read (Conservative): The article frames the commemoration of fascist victims as a necessary and balanced act, while subtly criticizing the absence of leftist representatives. The emphasis on remembering fascist crimes over communist ones, along with the implication that leftist groups are not adequately representing the

Why factuality (75): The article reports on President of the Chamber Gordan Jandroković paying tribute to victims of fascism at the Kampor memorial site. It provides numbers estimating between 1500 and 4000 deaths, aligning with cross-source consensus. The mention of different groups (Croats, Slovenes, Jews) and the emp

Why objectivity (65): The tone is respectful and commemorative, focusing on remembrance and moral responsibility. While not overtly biased, there is a clear political undertone in emphasizing the importance of national memory and condemning past regimes, which may subtly favor left-leaning perspectives.

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