A commemoration was held in Zagreb for Slavenka Drakulić, one of Croatia's most prominent writers, journalists, and feminists, who passed away suddenly in Sovinjak, Istria, on June 20th, at the age of 77. The event took place in the Small Hall of the Vatroslav Lisinski Concert Hall, where several individuals reflected on her literary contributions, public engagement, and legacy. Among those present were Ivica Buljan, Barbara Matejčić, Marija Ott Franolić, Vesna Pusić, and Seid Serdarević, each offering insights into Drakulić’s life and work.
Drakulić, born in Rijeka on July 4th, 1949, lived in Stockholm and Zagreb. She began her career as a journalist after completing her studies in comparative literature and sociology at the Faculty of Philosophy in Zagreb. Her early writings appeared in publications such as *Start*, *Danas*, and *NIN*. She became a long-term collaborator with *Jutarnji list* and contributed articles to leading international newspapers including *The New York Times*, *Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung*, *La Repubblica*, and *El Mundo*. Her works often explored women’s experiences and chronicled the lives of notable female figures such as Frida Kahlo and Mileva Einstein. She married Swedish journalist Richard Swartz, and her daughter, Rujana Jeger, is also an author.
Seid Serdarević, chief editor of the publishing house Fraktura, described Drakulić as one of the most important literary figures, essayists, and journalists in Croatia, and among the first feminists in the country. He noted that their close collaboration began with the publication of her book *Dora i Minotaur* in 2015, which led to frequent meetings and travel together. Serdarević emphasized that Drakulić was always interested in new books and themes, and he mentioned that she eagerly awaited the release of her latest work, *Zašto nisam naučila kuhati*, as though it were her very first book. He recalled her repeated assertion that women's rights had not been granted but chosen, and they could be lost if the struggle continued.
Barbara Matejčić, a journalist and feminist, highlighted how significant it was for Drakulić to remain in journalism until the end of her life, calling it "this humbled profession." She expressed that being a feminist and a free journalist seemed simple today, but behind these labels lay the legacy of women who came before. These predecessors had created space in which modern women did not have to defend their place in every sentence they wrote.
Ivica Buljan, an editor from *Jutarnji list*, shared his reflections on working with Drakulić over more than ten years. He said she did not believe texts could change the world, but felt a duty to speak about what mattered to her. Some texts, he explained, were simply necessary for her to write—both as a personal obligation and towards the people she cared about. Writing was essential because it was important for her to say something, regardless of the consequences.
Marija Ott Franolić, a writer and critic who had known Drakulić for many years, spoke of her creative energy and passion for writing. She had access to Drakulić’s correspondence, having helped organize her archive. Franolić mentioned that some of the most moving letters Drakulić received were from Iran, particularly after the translation of her book *Kako smo preživjeli komunizam* into Persian. This led to an overwhelming response of support, gratitude, and understanding from readers there.
Vesna Pusić, a former politician, recalled knowing Drakulić since her student days. She remembered Drakulić once telling her that as a child, she wanted to be a newspaper vendor so she could read all day. Pusić contrasted this with the role many women of her generation were expected to play as "followers of revolution," stating that Drakulić was not made for that role. Instead, she was a "follower of life."
Pusić also reminded attendees that Drakulić co-founded the first feminist group in former Yugoslavia with a few other collaborators. They faced harsh criticism for this, which Drakulić addressed in her book *Smrtni grijesi feminizma*. After suffering from a serious illness, dialysis, and kidney transplantation, Drakulić transformed her experience into the novel *Hologrami straha*, during which she developed her motto: "When life throws a stone at you, you throw back a book!" She also spoke about their gatherings in Sovinjak, where both of them spent summers.
Drakulić's death has sparked discussions about her impact on Croatian culture and feminism. While some critics and commentators have focused on the emotional responses to her passing, others have pointed to her lasting influence on literature and social discourse. Her work continues to resonate with readers around the world, and her legacy remains deeply embedded in the cultural fabric of Croatia. As her family, friends, colleagues, and admirers gather to honor her memory, the question arises: What will be the future course of her literary and journalistic contributions, and how will her voice continue to shape conversations on gender equality and human rights?
6 reports
Index.hrIndependentLeftFactual 98Objective 925 days agoA commemorative event was held in Croatia to honor Slavenka Drakulić, a prominent female writer, journalist, and feminist who passed away unexpectedly at the age of 77 in Istria. The event took place at the Kruna Dvorana of Vatroslav Lissner, where several notable figures spoke about her literary contributions and activism. Seid Serdarević, editor-in-chief of publishing house Fraktura, praised her as one of the country’s most important writers and feminists, highlighting her dedication to the rights of marginalized groups. He noted her recent book, 'Zašto nisam naučila kuhati,' which she seemed excited about. Barbara Matejčić emphasized Drakulić’s commitment to journalism until her final days, while Ivica Buljan reflected on her journalistic responsibility. Friends and colleagues shared personal anecdotes, including her early aspirations and unique role as a feminist figure. The event highlighted Drakulić’s lasting impact on Croatian literature and feminism.
Bias read (Left): The article frames Slavenka Drakulić as a pioneering feminist and activist, emphasizing her advocacy for women's rights and marginalized communities. The language used by speakers highlights her progressive values and legacy, aligning with left-wing perspectives. While the focus is on her personal成就
Why these scores (Factual 98 · Objective 92): This article is highly factual, providing precise information about the event, participants, and direct quotes. It maintains a neutral tone while covering the commemoration and Drakulić's legacy. The only slight reduction is due to some emotionally charged descriptions of her impact.
Jutarnji listIndependentCenterFactual 97Objective 935 days agoA commemorative event was held for the renowned Croatian writer and journalist Slavenka Drakulić at the Small Hall of Vatroslav Lisinski. Attendees included her family, friends, admirers of her literary work, journalism, and social engagement, as well as notable public figures such as Zagreb’s mayor Tomislav Tomašević, writer Miljenko Jergović, activist Sanja Sarnavka, and politicians Anka Mrak Taritaš and Rade Borić. The event featured reflections on Drakulić’s life, her contributions to literature and feminism, and her personal and professional legacy. Her editor Seid Serdarević spoke about their long-standing collaboration, including her book 'Dora i Minotaur,' and mentioned her upcoming works. Writer Barbara Matejčić highlighted Drakulić’s influence on women’s rights and her role as a feminist voice. The event concluded with emotional tributes and remembrances of her impact.
Bias read (Center): The article focuses on a cultural tribute to a prominent writer and journalist, emphasizing her literary and social contributions. There is no explicit political framing, and the content remains neutral in tone, focusing on remembrance and admiration rather than political commentary or controversy.
Why these scores (Factual 97 · Objective 93): The article presents accurate information about the commemoration, including the venue, participants, and key statements made by speakers. It remains largely objective, though some phrases carry a slightly emotional undertone when discussing Drakulić's significance.
Večernji listIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 904 days agoA commemoration was held for the Croatian writer, journalist, and feminist Slavenka Drakulić at the Small Hall of the Vatroslav Lisinski Cultural and Artistic Association. The event featured speeches by several individuals, including Ivica Buljan, Barbara Matejčić, Marija Ott Franolić, Vesna Pusić, and Seid Serdarević, who spoke about her life and work. Serdarević described Drakulić as a lifelong advocate for the rights of the weak and marginalized, emphasizing her belief that women's rights were earned through struggle rather than granted. Barbara Matejčić reflected on Drakulić's legacy, noting that the fight for women's rights was built upon the efforts of previous generations. Marija Ott Franolić shared personal memories of Drakulić's creative energy and highlighted letters from Iranian readers regarding her book 'How We Survived Communism.' Vesna Pusić recalled their acquaintance from student days and mentioned Drakulić's role in founding the first feminist group in former Yugoslavia, which faced significant hostility.
Bias read (Center): The article provides balanced coverage of a commemorative event honoring a prominent feminist and intellectual figure. It includes quotes from multiple speakers discussing Drakulić's contributions to feminism and human rights without overtly favoring any particular political perspective. The framing
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 90): The article accurately reports the commemoration event, participants, and quotes from speakers. It provides specific details about the venue, attendees, and themes discussed. The only minor deduction is due to some repetitive phrasing and emotional language in describing the event.
Telegram.hrIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 905 days agoA commemoration event was held in Zagreb for Croatian writer, journalist, and feminist Slavenka Drakulić, who passed away at the age of 77 in Sovinjak on the Istria. The event took place at the Kranjska Gora building of Vatroslav Lissner, where several notable figures spoke about her literary contributions and activism. Seid Serdarević, editor-in-chief of publishing house Fraktura, highlighted her role as one of Croatia’s earliest feminists and her dedication to writing. Barbara Matejčić emphasized Drakulić’s commitment to journalism until her final days, while Ivica Buljan from Jutarnji list noted her sense of duty to write about important issues. Marija Ott Franolić shared personal memories of Drakulić’s creative energy, and Vesna Pusić recalled their long-standing connection since university days.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced account of Slavenka Drakulić’s life and legacy, focusing on her work as a writer, journalist, and feminist. While the subject matter has political implications due to her advocacy for women’s rights and social justice, the framing remains neutral. Multiple speakers—r.
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 90): The article provides accurate details about the memorial event for Slavenka Drakulić, including the location, participants, and her death date. It quotes Seid Serdarević accurately and mentions her new book. The only minor issue is the lack of full context from the quoted statements.
tportalIndependentCenterFactual 50Objective 405 days agoA commemoration was held in Zagreb for Slavenka Drakulić, one of Croatia's most prominent writers and feminists, who passed away suddenly in Istria at the age of 77 in mid-June. The event took place in the Small Hall of the Vatroslav Lisinski Concert Hall, where several speakers, including Ivica Buljan, Barbara Matejčić, Marija Ott Franolić, Vesna Pusić, and Seid Serdarević, discussed her literary work and public contributions. Drakulić was recognized as one of the most important Croatian writers, essayists, journalists, and early feminists, known for her advocacy for the rights of the weak and marginalized. Her recent book, 'Why I Didn't Learn How to Cook,' was highlighted as something she eagerly anticipated. Speakers emphasized her dedication to journalism, feminism, and writing, noting her influence on contemporary discussions around women's rights and freedom of expression.
Bias read (Center): The article focuses on a cultural event commemorating a writer and feminist, with no direct political implications or controversy. It presents factual information about the event and quotes participants without evident ideological framing or bias.
Why these scores (Factual 50 · Objective 40): This article deviates significantly from the others, presenting speculative and potentially biased content rather than reporting on the actual commemoration event. It includes personal opinions and commentary not aligned with the other sources, making it less factual and more subjective.
Večernji listIndependentLeftFactual 50Objective 306 days ago The famous Dracula, the small peoples and their great daughtersThe article discusses the legacy and influence of Slavenka Drakulić, a Croatian writer and educator, highlighting her impact on students and her role in the cultural and feminist movements of the 1980s. It mentions her brief career in education, where she left a lasting impression on her pupils, particularly young women. The piece references a proposal by publisher Gordana Farkaš Sfeci to award Drakulić the Vladimir Nazor Lifetime Achievement Award. The article also notes the widespread mourning for Drakulić following her death, with social media users and Croatian Catholic admirers expressing their condolences. The tone reflects admiration for her contributions to literature and education.
Bias read (Left): The article frames Slavenka Drakulić as a significant cultural and educational figure, emphasizing her role in feminist movements and her influence on younger generations. While it does not overtly criticize religious institutions, it contrasts her secular humanist views with traditional Catholicism
Why these scores (Factual 50 · Objective 30): The article contains significant factual inaccuracies and an extremely biased tone. It makes unsupported claims about Drakulić's influence and presents a strongly negative view of her legacy. The content appears more like opinion than objective reporting.
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