ON
← Back to feed
Klauški: A new patriotism was seen at the protest.
Croatia🏛️ PoliticsProgressiveOverlooked by conservatives9/7/2026

Klauški: A new patriotism was seen at the protest.

Tomislav Klauški, guest on N1's live show 'Studija', discussed the Saturday protest 'Hodaj za Liku' held in Zagreb. He described the event as showing a new form of patriotism that had not been seen before, which even the HDZ could not label as anti-Croatian. The protest was marked by a large presence of black-clad individuals and right-wing activists, creating an impression that much of Croatia was wrapped in black. Klauški noted that while organizers did not want the protest to be explicitly political, it still conveyed a message against the ruling HDZ and Prime Minister Andrej Plenković. He argued that the situation in certain regions has made citizens more dependent on the HDZ, as they hold the keys to solving problems. He criticized institutional corruption and suggested that the HDZ has created a 'black cloud' over the country. Regarding the absence of athletes at the protest, he sarcastically remarked that they would likely have attended if rapper Thompson had been present, implying that Thompson was under HDZ patronage. He also commented on the Catholic Church's reluctance to oppose the HDZ, noting that Bishop Mate Uzunić recognized this new form of patriotism but others in

The Croatian Democratic Union (HDZ) has accused activists of orchestrating an amateurish campaign to discredit its stance on the upcoming protest against illegal and toxic waste dumping in Gospić, which is scheduled for September 5 in Zagreb. The controversy erupted after screenshots of a message circulated on social media, purportedly originating from the HDZ’s media team, outlining strategies for members to engage with the public regarding the protest. The message urged supporters of the demonstration to attack individuals and groups labeled as extreme leftists, anti-Hrvats, Yugoslavs, and haters of all things Croatian, using specific epithets and tactics. It suggested that participants should identify targeted groups and commenters, continue attacks with different terms if responses were received, and share the message widely among trusted members. The strategy emphasized aggressive engagement across all levels of the party's structure, including grassroots and regional branches, and even encouraged the use of fake Facebook profiles to amplify the message. In response, the HDZ issued a statement on its Facebook page, calling the activity an "amateurish attempt" by individual activists to spread disinformation. The statement claimed that such actions reveal the growing unrest within radical leftist circles, as more citizens recognize these groups attempting to exploit the planned protest for political gain. The HDZ argued that the narrative being promoted, that the protest is a result of their actions, was misleading and aimed to shift attention away from the real issues facing the government. The party reiterated that it does not oppose any lawful protests, emphasizing its commitment to maintaining democratic principles and the rule of law. The controversy has sparked broader discussions about the politicization of environmental issues and the role of social media in shaping public perception. Political analysts have noted that this incident could mark a turning point in how environmental concerns are addressed in Croatia, given the widespread public concern over illegal waste disposal and its impact on health and the environment. Some experts argue that the issue transcends traditional political divides, highlighting a shared national interest in protecting the country’s natural resources and ensuring accountability from both the government and private entities. Meanwhile, figures such as Dalija Orešković, a member of parliament representing the Social Democrats (SDP), have framed the protest as a national cause, describing it as an "anti-HDZ" movement. She criticized the government for its failure to address the crisis, pointing to years of illegal waste dumping and the lack of infrastructure to manage domestic waste. Orešković warned that the situation poses a serious threat to public health and the environment, urging citizens to participate in the protest to demand action from authorities. Political commentators have also drawn comparisons between the current situation and past controversies involving the HDZ, suggesting that the party’s attempts to delegitimize opposition through misinformation reflect a pattern of behavior. Analysts warn that such tactics risk further polarizing society and undermining trust in democratic institutions. They emphasize the need for transparency and independent investigations into the allegations surrounding the waste dumping and the alleged coordination of the protest. As the protest approaches, tensions remain high, with calls for unity among citizens who share concerns about environmental degradation and political corruption. The outcome of the protest could influence future policy decisions and public discourse on environmental protection, potentially reshaping the political landscape in Croatia. The debate continues, with stakeholders advocating for greater accountability, transparency, and collective action to safeguard the nation’s interests.

How this report was made. Objective News wrote this report from 4 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

Go to the primary sources (1)

The official sources this coverage is built on. Read them directly to bypass framing.

  • Source documentN1

4 reports

Slobodna Dalmacija logoSlobodna DalmacijaIndependentProgressiveFactual 95Objective 609/7/2026
Vučetić: The citizens have to appoint poisoners, Mladić gathers those ready to commit crime again, and Thompson and the bishops...

Marko Vučetić, a philosophy professor and former parliamentary representative, commented on recent protests in Liča and the farewell event for war criminal Ratko Mladić during a live interview on N1. He questioned whether the protests were driven by patriotism or despair, suggesting that if people truly loved their homeland, they would clearly identify who threatens it, such as the Croatian government, prime minister, ministers, mayors, and local officials. Vučetić warned that if the government fails to act decisively against those he claims have harmed Liča, the region could become either a symbol of renewed patriotism or a shameful monument to passivity. He criticized the lack of clear articulation from locals and suggested that many still view conflicts within the HDZ (Croatian Democratic Union) as internal family disputes rather than external threats. He also linked current events to the 'hipodromski koncert' (Hipodrome concert), implying it had social repercussions.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the protests in Liča as a reaction to perceived government failure and corruption, criticizing the Croatian government and HDZ (right-wing party) while advocating for clearer expressions of patriotism and resistance. The tone implies that the government has failed to protect the '

Why factuality (95): The article accurately summarizes Marko Vučetić's comments from the live N1 studio interview with Nine Kljenak. It includes direct quotes and paraphrases his statements about the protest, the political situation in Lika, and the role of the Church. The content aligns closely with the primary source

Why objectivity (60): The article exhibits a clear bias in favor of Vučetić's perspective, presenting his views without counterpoints or alternative interpretations. It uses emotionally charged language such as 'trovače' (poisoners) and frames the protests as a response to 'zlostavljanom i opljačkanom domovinom' (torture

Telegram.hr logoTelegram.hrIndependentProgressiveFactual 85Objective 659/1/2026
The drunken general isn't the only one.

The article reports on multiple traffic incidents involving high-profile members of Croatia's ruling HDZ party, highlighting their repeated alcohol-related offenses and attempts to cover them up. Former HDZ mayor of Andrijaševci, Ivan Dekanić, was involved in several drunk driving incidents, including hitting a bus carrying nuns in 2019 while serving as mayor, and later being falsely accused of drunk driving during Easter 2022. He was unjustly sentenced to four years in prison for lying about the accident. His brother-in-law and others were also implicated in covering up the incident. Another HDZ member, Davor Adžić, fled police after drinking and driving in June 2024. Former Minister Gabrijela Žalac had a history of driving without a license and caused injury to a child in 2019. Her cousin, Marijana Obradović, also drove under influence and fled the scene, leading to a scandal when authorities failed to file a criminal report. The article suggests systemic issues within the HDZ party regarding accountability and transparency.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the actions of HDZ officials as indicative of a broader pattern of corruption and lack of accountability, suggesting a systemic issue within the ruling party. It emphasizes the repeated violations by these figures and the failure of authorities to properly address them, which is a

Why factuality (85): The article reports on multiple instances of HDZ officials involved in traffic accidents, including General Filipović and former mayor Dekanić. It provides specific details such as dates, alcohol levels, and legal consequences. While no primary source is available, the information aligns with the cr

Why objectivity (65): The tone leans towards criticism of HDZ officials, using terms like 'afera' and emphasizing the repeated offenses. The narrative presents the incidents in a way that highlights political corruption, which introduces bias. The article also mentions police attempts to cover up incidents, suggesting a

Index.hr logoIndex.hrIndependentProgressiveFactual 80Objective 709/2/2026
Illegally buried the waste, lost the job arranged for the HDZ sheep.

The article discusses the selection of the company Kostak for the cleanup of an illegal waste dump in Gospić, Croatia. Kostak, based in Zagreb and linked to a Slovenian firm, was chosen for this task despite having previously competed for a major environmental project, the cleanup of the Sovjak pit near Rijeka. In that case, Kostak did not win the contract, which went to a consortium including GK Group, Ekoma, and Ivicom Consulting. This decision later became part of an investigation by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO), which found evidence of corruption involving Miroslav Šaravanja, owner of Sokol Vinkovci, and Robert Gotić, a prominent member of the Croatian Democratic Union (HDZ) and former mayor of Varazdin. Šaravanja admitted to paying approximately €130,000 in bribes to Gotić between December 2020 and February 2022 to influence decisions related to the Sovjak project and other business matters. Gotić denied any wrongdoing. While Kostak was not directly implicated in criminal charges, they were mentioned in the indictment as one of the competitors in the Sovjak tender process.

Bias read (Progressive): The article highlights allegations of corruption involving a prominent HDZ member and a businessperson, suggesting systemic issues within the political establishment. The framing emphasizes the involvement of HDZ figures in corrupt practices, which aligns with a left-leaning critique of conservative

Why factuality (80): The article discusses an environmental case involving an HDZ-linked company and legal actions taken by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO). It cites specific names, amounts, and legal outcomes. While there is no primary source, the information appears consistent with public records and le

Why objectivity (70): The article has a slightly biased tone, particularly when discussing the involvement of HDZ officials and the alleged misuse of connections. Phrases like 'illegal dumping' and 'using connections' imply judgment, though not overtly partisan. The focus on the legal consequences suggests a critical per

N1 Hrvatska logoN1 HrvatskaIndependentProgressiveFactual 70Objective 589/7/2026
Klauški: A new patriotism was seen at the protest.

Tomislav Klauški, guest on N1's live show 'Studija', discussed the Saturday protest 'Hodaj za Liku' held in Zagreb. He described the event as showing a new form of patriotism that had not been seen before, which even the HDZ could not label as anti-Croatian. The protest was marked by a large presence of black-clad individuals and right-wing activists, creating an impression that much of Croatia was wrapped in black. Klauški noted that while organizers did not want the protest to be explicitly political, it still conveyed a message against the ruling HDZ and Prime Minister Andrej Plenković. He argued that the situation in certain regions has made citizens more dependent on the HDZ, as they hold the keys to solving problems. He criticized institutional corruption and suggested that the HDZ has created a 'black cloud' over the country. Regarding the absence of athletes at the protest, he sarcastically remarked that they would likely have attended if rapper Thompson had been present, implying that Thompson was under HDZ patronage. He also commented on the Catholic Church's reluctance to oppose the HDZ, noting that Bishop Mate Uzunić recognized this new form of patriotism but others in

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the protest as a new form of patriotism that challenges the HDZ, criticizes institutional corruption linked to the HDZ, and highlights the HDZ's dominance over Croatian institutions. The tone is critical of the ruling party and emphasizes the need for change, suggesting a leftward

Why factuality (70): This article provides more detailed quotes from Tomislav Klauški regarding the protest, including his assessment of the demonstration as representing 'new patriotism' and his critique of the HDZ's inability to label the protest as 'anti-Heritage.' While there is no primary source, the information al

Why objectivity (58): The article maintains a similar critical stance toward the HDZ and presents Klauški’s views as an authoritative opinion. There is a clear bias in favor of portraying the protest as a positive force against the ruling party, with limited acknowledgment of alternative perspectives.

How each side covered it

The same event, grouped by the political lean of the outlets covering it.

How each side covered it

Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and every other Supporter feature.

Become a Supporter

Covered around the world

The same event as reported in other countries.

Covered around the world

Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and every other Supporter feature.

Become a Supporter

Claims check

Key factual claims, and how many sources assert vs dispute each.

Claims check

Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and every other Supporter feature.

Become a Supporter

Keep the news honest.

ObjectiveNews is reader-funded and ad-free — we show you the bias instead of hiding it. Support independent journalism for €4/month.

Become a Supporter

Related stories