Minister Šipić promised that the demographic law will be ready by Christmas

The Croatian government has made a significant announcement regarding its efforts to address long-standing demographic challenges facing the country. At a public discussion held on Friday at the University of Zagreb, Minister of Demography and Immigration Ivan Šipić confirmed that a draft of the National Law on Demographic Revitalization could be ready by the end of the year. This declaration marks a pivotal moment in Croatia’s approach to addressing its declining population, which has been a growing concern over recent years.

The event was organized jointly by the Ministry of Demography and Immigration and the Scientific Council tasked with drafting the proposed law. The gathering brought together representatives from academia, local and regional governments, as well as state institutions. The primary goal of the meeting was to discuss various models and strategies for the future legislation aimed at reversing negative demographic trends. Minister Šipić emphasized that this initiative represents a continuation of work begun by the Scientific Council and working groups established specifically for the creation of the national law.

Šipić highlighted the importance of the topic, stating that demography is the most critical issue concerning the survival of the Croatian people and their nation. He noted that the subject had been neglected for many years, even being considered trivial just two years ago. Now, however, it is recognized as one of the key questions shaping the future of the country. The minister expressed the intention of the ministry to have a proposal for the law prepared by Christmas, although he stressed that quality and implementability of the solution should take precedence over meeting deadlines.

Among the measures under consideration are policies designed to strengthen families, programs encouraging the return of Croatian emigrants, initiatives to retain young people within the country, and efforts to repopulate and economically revitalize depopulated areas such as Lič, Dalmatian Zagoria, and Slavonia. These proposals aim to tackle the multifaceted issues contributing to Croatia's demographic decline, including low birth rates and high mortality rates.

Davor Miličić, President of the Scientific Council for the drafting of the Law on Demographic Renewal and Vice-President of the Croatian Academy of Sciences and Arts, warned about the unfavorable demographic trends the country faces. He pointed out that Croatia has recorded more deaths than births for years, describing this situation as a “red light” requiring a systematic response from both the state and society. Miličić also emphasized the potential of the Croatian diaspora, suggesting that the future law should create conditions for the return of some emigrated Croats and their descendants. He viewed demographic renewal as a long-term national project rather than a matter of daily politics.

Stjepan Šterc, a demographer, underscored the need for the law to align with both national and local levels but based on scientific research and analysis. He cautioned against considering the development of certain regions independently of demographic indicators, highlighting the importance of incorporating suggestions from local communities into the legal framework. Rektor of the University of Zagreb, Stjepan Lakušić, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that demographic renewal is one of the key themes for Croatia's future. He called for the inclusion of academic community input and scientific data in shaping future policies, asserting that only a feasible and sustainable legal framework can yield long-term results.

The drafting process involves members of the Scientific Council and working groups, including academics such as Davor Miličić, Stjepan Šterc, Jasna Čapo, and Višnja Trako Poljak. Organizers have invited representatives from cities, municipalities, and counties to contribute their proposals to shape the future law. This collaborative effort aims to ensure that the final legislation reflects diverse perspectives and addresses the complex nature of demographic challenges faced by Croatia.

As discussions continue and the draft law moves closer to completion, the focus remains on creating comprehensive solutions that can effectively reverse the demographic decline. The involvement of various stakeholders, from scientists to local officials, underscores the significance of this endeavor and highlights the collective commitment to ensuring the sustainability and vitality of the Croatian population. With the deadline approaching, the emphasis will remain on developing a robust and practical legislative framework that can address the pressing demographic issues facing the nation.