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Message from Dalmatia: The wounds of the Long War are still not healed after more than 20 years
Croatia🏛️ PoliticsLean Progressive9 days ago

Message from Dalmatia: The wounds of the Long War are still not healed after more than 20 years

The town of Dugi Rat in Croatia has raised concerns over the unresolved issue of slag left behind at the former Ferolegura factory site, which remains unsanitized more than two decades after production ceased. The local community, through a Facebook group, highlighted this ongoing environmental problem and expressed support for residents fighting against illegal waste disposal. The area was reportedly exploited by a private entity without proper authorization, who claimed the material was not hazardous. According to the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Green Transition, approximately 1.67 million cubic meters of industrial waste, including slag, were generated over the years. The municipality estimates around 257,000 tons of illegally dumped waste from the 2011 exploitation of the site. While a settlement between the state and the company has been reached, and sanitation efforts are planned to begin in 2025, recent analyses contradict earlier findings regarding the safety of the slag, causing uncertainty among residents about future cleanup efforts.

SDP and Možemo: Why Was the Report Released for Gospić, But Not for Benkovac? Residents of Benkovac and surrounding areas have raised concerns over environmental contamination linked to illegal waste disposal, prompting local political figures to question the lack of transparency and accountability from authorities. According to Jure Zubčić of the SDP and Silvana Čeko Jurišić of Možemo, the public's legitimate worries about their environment and health are being dismissed with claims of hysteria, which they argue is an insult to all citizens. They emphasized that the issues arising in Gospić, Benkovac, Varaždin, Kistanjama, Lovinac, and Štikadi are the responsibility of Prime Minister Andrej Plenković, who has failed to appoint a chief state inspector for months. The political leaders pointed out that the situation in Benkovac is similar to other regions affected by illegal dumping, such as Šepurina near Nin and Crno Brdo in Biljane Donje, where sanitation efforts have been delayed for years. They questioned why a report was released regarding Gospić but not for Benkovac, suggesting a lack of trust in local institutions. Zubčić stated that independent experts and laboratories would be engaged to conduct analyses due to the distrust in existing institutions. Residents of Benkovac and nearby settlements have a right to know the condition of the soil and the extent of contamination in their area, according to Zubčić. He highlighted the long-standing issue of an illegal waste dump in Šepurina, which had been neglected for decades, and the cancer-causing conditions in Crno Brdo in Biljane Donje, which only recently began its cleanup process. The situation in Dikl, a landfill in Zadar, was also mentioned, with concerns over the lack of transparency regarding the types of waste being transported there. Former mayor of Gospić, Karlo Starčević, commented on the findings related to contamination in Gospić, stating that the entire situation was under the cover of a "state mafia" based in Zagreb. He claimed that the former mayor, Petar Krmpotić, and his successor, Darko Milinović, were not responsible for issuing permits for waste disposal, particularly hazardous waste, and that the responsibility lay with the Ličko-Senjska county government. Starčević accused the previous county official, Jerko Kostelac, of being complicit in the criminal activities involving the illegal disposal of waste. Starčević detailed how the waste started arriving in Gospić around 2023, estimating the amount to be between 37,000 and 40,000 tons. This volume, he noted, would equate to a convoy of 75 to 80 kilometers of trucks and trailers. While some residents claimed that trucks had been arriving since 2019, Starčević argued that the individual in question, Josip Šincek, did not acquire the property until early 2021. He denied having received any reports of suspicious activity during his tenure as mayor and insisted that if such information had reached him, he would have intervened promptly. Residents living near the site reported frequent truck traffic and had previously submitted complaints to the city and police. However, Starčević maintained that no such reports had reached him personally, dismissing allegations that he had ignored these concerns as outright lies. In response to the ongoing controversy, the mayor of Gospić, Darko Milinović, called on the government and the Office of the Prosecutor (DORH) to consider classifying the ecological incident in Gospić as an act of terrorism and to pursue legal action against all those involved. He warned that the contamination could threaten the health of residents in Gospić, Ličko-Senjska, and Primorsko-Goranska counties, as well as the broader Croatian population. The Uskok agency has already published its findings, revealing extensive contamination of soil and potential effects on groundwater within the industrial complex in Gospić. These findings were part of an investigation into the couple Šincek and others suspected of illegal waste handling. According to earlier reports, the amount of illegally dumped waste in Gospić is in the tens of thousands of tons, posing a continuous risk of pollution if left unsanitized. Experts in waste management, such as Danko Fundurulja, emphasized that the situation in Gospić is not an exceptional case but rather a reflection of systemic failures in waste management across Croatia. He noted that while the country lacks proper facilities for handling hazardous waste, including incinerators and processing plants, plans for such infrastructure have existed since 1994 but remain unimplemented. The estimated cost for the comprehensive cleanup of the waste in Gospić exceeds 80 million euros, highlighting the complexity and scale of the challenge ahead.

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8 reports

Index.hr logoIndex.hrIndependentProgressiveFactual 95Objective 8010 days ago
SDP and Podemos: Why is the result for Gospić published and not for Benkovac?

The article discusses concerns raised by SDP representative Jure Zubčić and Možemo representative Silvana Čeko Jurišić regarding environmental contamination in Benkovac. They criticize local authorities and institutions for failing to address waste management issues, citing examples such as illegal landfills in Šepurine and Biljane Donje, where cancerogenic substances have been present for years. The representatives argue that while reports were issued for Gospić, none were released for Benkovac, raising questions about transparency and accountability. They emphasize their distrust in local governance and plan to involve independent experts to conduct analyses. The issue highlights broader systemic failures in waste management and environmental protection across Croatia.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the criticism of local authorities and institutions as a failure to protect citizens' health and environment, aligning with left-leaning concerns about governmental accountability and environmental justice. The emphasis on institutional distrust and calls for independent oversight

Why factuality (95): The article accurately presents the official response from the Ministry of Environment regarding the inclusion of Benkovac in the Waste Management Plan. It provides specific details about the location, quantity of waste, and the role of the Environmental Protection Fund. This aligns with other sourc

Why objectivity (80): The article remains relatively neutral in tone but includes some critical remarks about local authorities and institutions not being trusted. While it avoids overtly biased language, it does express skepticism towards certain institutions.

N1 Hrvatska logoN1 HrvatskaIndependentProgressiveFactual 95Objective 6512 days ago
Former Mayor Gospić: "Everything happened under the auspices of the state mafia from Zagreb"

Former mayor of Gospić, Karlo Starčević, claims he had no knowledge of illegal waste disposal on the city’s territory during his tenure and asserts that the municipality does not issue permits for waste disposal, especially hazardous waste. He attributes responsibility for such permits to the Lika-Senj County administration, accusing former county official Jerko Kostelac of issuing the permit. Starčević alleges that all criminal activity related to the case occurred under the patronage of a state mafia originating from Zagreb. He mentions businessman Josipa Šincek, who initially approached the city in early 2021 to produce protective barriers but later began receiving large amounts of waste starting around 2023. Starčević estimates the volume of waste involved at between 37,000 and 40,000 tons, which he compares to a convoy of 75–80 trucks. Local residents claim they noticed increased truck traffic as early as 2019, though Starčević says Šincek did not yet own the land then.

Bias read (Progressive): The article presents accusations against local and national authorities, implying systemic corruption and blaming a 'state mafia' based in Zagreb. The framing emphasizes the involvement of higher-level political entities and uses strong language like 'državna mafija' ('state mafia'), suggesting a批判性

Why factuality (95): The article closely follows the primary source document N1, accurately reporting statements from Karlo Starčević regarding his lack of knowledge about illegal waste dumping, the role of the municipality, and his accusations against the regional government and 'state mafia'. It includes direct quotes

Why objectivity (65): The tone is strongly critical of media and citizens, using emotionally charged language like 'totalno neznanje' and 'državna mafija'. The article presents Starčević’s allegations without balancing them with counterpoints or alternative perspectives, leading to a one-sided narrative.

Jutarnji list logoJutarnji listIndependentProgressiveFactual 95Objective 6012 days ago
Former Mayor Gospića: "The state mafia from Zagreb is behind all this.

Former mayor of Gospić, Karlo Starčević, spoke to N1 about findings related to environmental contamination in the area, stating that waste was discovered downstream of a landfill. He criticized both citizens and media for their lack of awareness regarding the legal responsibilities of local authorities in managing hazardous waste. Starčević accused the Lika-Senj County Council, specifically former county official Jerko Kostelac, of issuing permits for waste disposal under the influence of a 'state mafia' from Zagreb. He claims that production by entrepreneur Josip Šincek began in 2021, initially focused on renovating buildings, but later involved illegal waste dumping starting around 2023. He estimates between 37,000 to 40,000 tons of waste were dumped, equivalent to 75–80 kilometers of trucks. Residents reported frequent truck arrivals, some since 2019, which Starčević disputes, claiming Šincek did not own the land until early 2021. He asserts that no one has reported suspicious activity to him personally.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the issue as a systemic failure involving corruption and state control, aligning with left-wing critiques of bureaucratic inefficiency and corporate influence. The emphasis on a 'state mafia' suggests a distrust of institutional power structures, common in leftist narratives. The矛

Why factuality (95): This article mirrors the content of N1 with minimal differences, including direct quotes and similar structure. It accurately reflects Starčević’s claims about the municipality’s role, the issuance of permits by the county, and his accusations of corruption and organized crime. No additional facts a

Why objectivity (60): The article maintains a highly accusatory tone, especially towards media and citizens, using phrases like 'totalno neznanje' and 'državna mafija'. It lacks balance by not presenting opposing viewpoints or contextualizing Starčević’s claims with evidence from other sources or authorities.

N1 Hrvatska logoN1 HrvatskaIndependentCenterFactual 92Objective 8811 days ago
Message to the government from Dalmatia: "We send you greetings from the Long War.

The article discusses a longstanding environmental issue in Dugi Rat, Croatia, where hazardous waste remains unaddressed on the site of a former ferolegur factory. The local community has raised concerns over the potential dangers of this waste, which was allegedly exploited by an investor without proper authorization. Despite ongoing efforts by the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Green Transition to clean up the area, the waste has not been properly remediated. The situation is linked to recent findings suggesting the material might be hazardous, raising fears among residents about future cleanup efforts. The community has connected this issue to the current illegal waste disposal problems in Gospić, urging caution in handling such matters.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced account of the environmental issue in Dugi Rat, highlighting both the historical neglect and the current challenges faced by the community. It references official documents and reports from the Ministry of Environmental Protection, but does not take a clear partisan立场

Why factuality (92): The article accurately reflects the primary source document, providing precise figures such as the 257,000 tons of illegal waste and the 1.67 million cubic meters of troska. It also discusses the legal proceedings and the planned cleanup. The only minor deviation is the absence of the exact date of

Why objectivity (88): The article maintains an even-handed approach, presenting the facts without bias. While it quotes the Facebook group's message, it does so neutrally and avoids any overtly supportive or critical language toward either party involved in the dispute.

tportal logotportalIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 8510 days ago
Message from Dalmatia: The wounds of the Long War are still not healed after more than 20 years

The town of Dugi Rat in Croatia has raised concerns over the unresolved issue of slag left behind at the former Ferolegura factory site, which remains unsanitized more than two decades after production ceased. The local community, through a Facebook group, highlighted this ongoing environmental problem and expressed support for residents fighting against illegal waste disposal. The area was reportedly exploited by a private entity without proper authorization, who claimed the material was not hazardous. According to the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Green Transition, approximately 1.67 million cubic meters of industrial waste, including slag, were generated over the years. The municipality estimates around 257,000 tons of illegally dumped waste from the 2011 exploitation of the site. While a settlement between the state and the company has been reached, and sanitation efforts are planned to begin in 2025, recent analyses contradict earlier findings regarding the safety of the slag, causing uncertainty among residents about future cleanup efforts.

Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about an environmental issue involving government agencies, local authorities, and private entities. It does not exhibit clear ideological bias, loaded language, or one-sided sourcing. The content focuses on the unresolved environmental impact of industrial遗留

Why factuality (90): This article provides detailed information about the troska issue, including the amount of waste (257,000 tons), the legal disputes, and the ongoing cleanup efforts. It references the primary source document and aligns closely with the facts presented there. The only minor discrepancy is the lack of

Why objectivity (85): The article presents the situation in a balanced manner, avoiding overtly emotional language while still acknowledging the concerns of the local community. It frames the issue objectively by discussing both the environmental impact and the legal aspects without taking sides.

Net.hr logoNet.hrIndependentCenterFactual 75Objective 609 days ago
Residents of Poznan live with 13 thousand tons of waste: 'I look at garbage, there are rats, snakes and everything'

Residents of Poznanovac in Croatia report living amidst over 13 tons of waste, leading to health concerns and environmental hazards. Božica Mrkoci describes daily exposure to garbage, wildlife like rats and snakes, and unpleasant odors. Darinka Gorup highlights the emotional distress caused by the situation, especially during rainy seasons. Local authorities, including Mayor Željko Odak of Bedekovčina, warn of increased fire risks due to dry conditions and emphasize the need for protective equipment. The Krapinsko-Zagorska County issued a permit for handling 1500 tons of non-hazardous waste, but Željko Kolar claims illegal waste disposal was noticed six years ago and reported to authorities. Residents express concern over potential health impacts, particularly cancer rates, though county data does not show higher incidence compared to other areas. Water quality near waste sites is under review, and a sanitation project has been proposed, with work potentially starting in autumn.

Bias read (Center): The article presents multiple perspectives without overtly favoring any political side. It includes quotes from residents expressing frustration, local officials raising safety concerns, and administrative responses regarding permits and regulations. While there is some emphasis on the negative side

Why factuality (75): Article provides detailed accounts from local residents describing the negative effects of waste accumulation, including health concerns and environmental hazards. It references statements from officials like Željko Odak and mentions the legal actions taken by the župan Željko Kolar. However, there

Why objectivity (60): The article presents personal experiences and quotes from residents, which can be seen as emotionally charged. While it highlights the issue objectively, it also includes subjective descriptions of the situation, such as 'smrdi i to je užas za podnijeti,' which may influence reader perception.

Net.hr logoNet.hrIndependentProgressiveFactual 75Objective 6012 days ago
Milinović called on the government and DORH to declare pollution in Lika a terrorist act

Gospodin Darko Milinović, gradonačelnik Gospića, pozvao je hrvatsku Vladi i Državnu odvetnicu (DORH) da razmotre mogućnost proglašenja ekološkog incidenta u Gospiću terorističkim činom. On tvrdi da je u regiji došlo do 'ekocida' koji može ugroziti zdravlje lokalnih stanovnika i šire regije. Milinović je takođe tražio hitnu sanaciju otpada i predložio da premijer Andrej Plenković bude na čelu povjerenstva za provođenje sanacije. Uskok, državna odvetnička služba, već je objavila nalaze o vještačenju koje pokazuju prisutnost opasnog otpada u industrijskom kompleksu u Gospiću.

Bias read (Progressive): The article presents a call by a local official for the government to take urgent action against environmental damage, using strong terms like 'ecocide' and 'terrorist act,' which frame the issue as a serious threat requiring immediate intervention. The emphasis on holding responsible parties to acc

Why factuality (75): The article reports on Gradonačelnik Milinović's call for authorities to classify an ecological incident as a terrorist act, citing concerns over public health. It references his open letter and specific demands for action, including the involvement of Prime Minister Plenković. While there is no pri

Why objectivity (60): The tone is strongly advocacy-oriented, emphasizing Milinović’s urgency and moral stance. The language carries emotional weight, particularly around terms like 'ekocid' and calls for collective action. The article frames the issue as a crisis requiring immediate government intervention, which leans

N1 Hrvatska logoN1 HrvatskaIndependentCenterFactual 70Objective 6011 days ago
In Gospić there is no emergency, everything else is swept under the carpet.

Danko Fundurulja, ekspert za sanitaciju otpada, analizira situaciju sa otpadom u Gospiću, naglašavajući složenost problema. Naglašava da se radi o miješanom otpadu koji sadrži opasan, inertan i komunalan otpad u količini preko 40.000 kubika. Preporučuje prekrivanje otpada vodonepropusnim materijalom kao prvu mjeru, a zatim početak sa sanitacijom. Pominje da Hrvata nema odlagališta opasnog otpada, spalionicu ili građevine za obradu opasnog otpada, i da plan za upravljanje opasnim otpadom postoji od 1994. godine, ali nije implementiran. Naglašava da će se vjerojatno krenuti s predobradom otpada, odvojivši opasan od neopasnog, a da će cijena sanitacije biti iznad 80 milijuna eura. Ističe da je najveći problem 'crna hrpa' s 5.000 tona otpada, a da se mora poštovati zakonska procedura.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a technical expert's analysis of a complex environmental issue without overt ideological slant. While the topic involves governmental infrastructure and policy, the framing remains objective, focusing on expert opinion and factual challenges rather than partisan critique. The le

Why factuality (70): This article discusses an expert’s opinion on the complexity of the situation in Gospić but does not directly address the Varaždin case. While it provides general background on waste management challenges in Croatia, it lacks specific alignment with the Varaždin event being discussed in other articl

Why objectivity (60): The article has a somewhat academic tone but still frames the issue as complex and problematic, indirectly criticizing the lack of infrastructure for hazardous waste management in Croatia. This introduces a subtle bias toward highlighting systemic failures.

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