We were in Gospić, people don't want to drink tap water. "We don't deserve this"
An article reports on growing concerns among residents of Gospić, Croatia, regarding contaminated groundwater caused by toxic chemicals leaking into the water supply over months. The contamination has led to a decline in drinking water consumption, with locals avoiding tap water due to its unusual color and smell. Residents express fear for their health and future generations, citing potential long-term health impacts. The issue stems from illegal waste dumping by entrepreneurs from Italy and Slovenia, as well as medical waste from local hospitals, which was investigated by the military intelligence agency USKOK. Analysis from 2024 confirmed that harmful PFAS chemicals had entered the groundwater system. Despite ongoing investigations since February 2025, cleanup efforts have been delayed, with only 10% of the waste documented for removal. Activists criticize authorities for failing to prioritize public safety and emphasize the need for urgent action.
The European Parliament has been alerted to the environmental crisis in Gospić, Croatia, thanks largely to the efforts of local residents who have brought attention to the illegal dumping of hazardous waste. Gordan Bosanac, a member of the European Parliament representing the party "Možemo!" and part of the Greens group, stated during an interview with Nova TV's Hanan Nanić that the situation involving perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) has reached Brussels. He emphasized that this issue is a major concern within the European Union, particularly among the Greens, who are pushing for stricter regulations against PFAS compounds due to their potential harm to human health. In June, before the broader public became aware of the situation in Gospić, Bosanac had sent seven residents living near the landfill in the area for testing in Brussels. The tests aimed to determine the extent of contamination in individuals rather than just focusing on water or soil levels. Results from these tests are expected towards the end of this month or early next year. According to Bosanac, the case of Gospić has already reached the European Union, primarily due to the actions of the citizens of Gospić. An initiative called "Gospić is our home" submitted a proposal to the European Parliament committee, which Bosanac is a part of. This proposal has entered a fast-track process and will be discussed in October. Bosanac expressed hope that other Croatian members of the European Parliament would not block the issue, given its importance. Bosanac mentioned that he has recently spoken with Slovenian and Italian colleagues who are interested in understanding what happened on their side of the border. He described the situation as an extraordinary ecological crime that primarily affects the Croatian government under Prime Minister Andrej Plenković, who has shown a lack of control over the country and waste management. He noted that both Slovenian and Italian colleagues are investigating what occurred on their respective territories. Speaking about who is responsible for this situation, Bosanac indicated that it is a systemic problem, not limited to Gospić alone. He announced that members of his party, "Možemo!" and the Social Democratic Party (SDP), would hold press conferences in eight locations across Croatia today. These conferences aim to highlight the issue of illegal waste, lack of knowledge, and poor waste management practices, which he attributes to the failure of the current government to establish effective institutions to handle such problems. He also highlighted serious corruption allegations linked to this case, including the name of former chief state inspector Andrija Mikulić. Bosanac stressed that this mix of issues indicates significant problems in Croatia’s waste management policies. The European Commission will need to address what happened in Gospić and ask relevant institutions in Croatia questions regarding the incident. He pointed out that in waste management policies, it is evident how industry and private capital benefit at the expense of human safety and general well-being. Croatia's legislation aligns with that of the European Union, but there are areas for improvement, such as introducing ecocide into criminal law. Bosanac urged better legislative work, not only on main laws but also on subordinate acts. The political parties Most and the HDZ have taken different approaches to addressing the issue. Most has requested an extraordinary session of the Croatian Parliament to discuss the responsibility for the ecological disaster in Lika and the illegal disposal of dangerous waste. They argue that there is no time left for delays, political maneuvering, or hearings without concrete consequences. They want to establish political responsibility at the highest level and decide on it in the Croatian Parliament. On the other hand, the HDZ has suggested a new approach to the cleanup of waste in Gospić, proposing a negotiation-based agreement instead of previous unsuccessful tenders. They believe this could lead to faster and more effective solutions. However, they emphasize that the protection of health and the environment should be the priority. Various groups, including the Bloc of Retired People (BUZ), have called for the resignation of the government and early elections, arguing that the situation in Gospić represents a turning point for the government. They claim that the government has failed to act on the issue and that the time for accountability has come. The European Parliament is expected to play a crucial role in addressing the situation, with Bosanac planning to submit the citizen petition from Gospić to the European Parliament for urgent consideration. He emphasized that Croatia must not become a dumping ground for hazardous waste within the European Union.
The article discusses the ongoing issue of illegal waste dumping in Poznanovac, Croatia, highlighting concerns over health risks and environmental contamination. Similar to the case in Gospić, where illegal waste was found to have contaminated water supplies, residents of Poznanovac report rising cancer cases and a growing sense of urgency. Despite efforts by local authorities to address the problem, including a tender process launched in February 2025 and additional laboratory analyses, the cleanup has not yet begun. Residents express frustration over the lack of action and feel their community is being overlooked compared to the more publicized Gospić situation. The proposed solution includes burning hazardous waste abroad, but costs remain high. While some officials claim there is no significant increase in cancer rates, residents argue that the presence of toxic waste poses a long-term threat to public health.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the issue as a neglected environmental justice concern, emphasizing the suffering of residents and the failure of political leaders to act. It highlights the contrast between the attention given to Gospić and the neglect of Poznanovac, suggesting a systemic failure in governance.
Why factuality (90): The article summarizes the political reactions to the waste issue, mentioning calls for accountability and the formation of an emergency committee. It reflects the primary source document's discussion of political pressure and responses.
Why objectivity (85): The tone is balanced, covering both the political demands and the government's position. While there is some emphasis on the gravity of the situation, it remains largely factual.
The article reports on the environmental and health concerns surrounding waste dumping in Gospić, Croatia, which has led to significant soil and groundwater contamination. The Gospić-Senj Bishop, Mons. Marko Medo, expressed deep concern over the issue, emphasizing the impact on the environment, public health, and human dignity. The situation came to light in February 2025 during an international police operation where 13 individuals, including owners of a recycling company, were arrested. Subsequent findings revealed approximately 37,000 tons of mixed industrial waste, including hazardous materials like PFAS chemicals, leading to calls for urgent remediation. The Church has taken a moral stance, focusing on protecting human dignity and the common good without entering political disputes.
Bias read (Center): While the topic involves environmental issues with potential political implications, the article maintains a balanced tone by focusing on the Church’s moral and ethical stance rather than taking a partisan position. It avoids direct political criticism and emphasizes the role of institutions such as
Why factuality (90): The article presents factual details about the bishop's concerns regarding the waste dump in Gospić and the environmental impact. It accurately describes the situation based on the primary document, including the amount of waste and the findings related to PFAS compounds.
Why objectivity (70): The article maintains a relatively neutral tone while expressing concern over the environmental issues. It avoids taking sides in the political debate and focuses on the environmental and health implications rather than political blame.
An article reports on growing concerns among residents of Gospić, Croatia, regarding contaminated groundwater caused by toxic chemicals leaking into the water supply over months. The contamination has led to a decline in drinking water consumption, with locals avoiding tap water due to its unusual color and smell. Residents express fear for their health and future generations, citing potential long-term health impacts. The issue stems from illegal waste dumping by entrepreneurs from Italy and Slovenia, as well as medical waste from local hospitals, which was investigated by the military intelligence agency USKOK. Analysis from 2024 confirmed that harmful PFAS chemicals had entered the groundwater system. Despite ongoing investigations since February 2025, cleanup efforts have been delayed, with only 10% of the waste documented for removal. Activists criticize authorities for failing to prioritize public safety and emphasize the need for urgent action.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the issue as a failure of governmental responsibility and highlights the risks to public health, emphasizing the urgency of action. It criticizes the government for procedural delays and lack of prioritization of citizen safety, aligning with progressive values of environmentalism
Why factuality (80): This article corroborates the contamination issue by citing recent findings and quotes from locals and an initiative group. It references the USKOK investigation and the presence of PFAS in water, supporting the broader narrative. However, it does not provide detailed data or sources beyond quotes a
Why objectivity (65): The article has a more emotional tone, with direct quotes from individuals expressing fear and concern. The phrase 'ekocid koji će se osjetiti godinama' suggests a strong opinion on the long-term impact, which leans into a more dramatic and concerned perspective.
How each side covered it
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How each side covered it
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