The Ombudswoman of the Republic of Croatia (Pučka pravobraniteljica) (2017), Annual report for the Ombudswoman for 2017 (Izvješće pučke pravobraniteljice za 2017. godinu)
Country
Croatia
Title
Year
Type of publication
Geographical coverage
National
Area/location of interest
Type of Institution
National human rights body
Institution
Main Thematic Focus
Discrimination Hate crime Incitement to hatred or violence Racism & xenophobia
Target Population
General population
Key findings
Ombudswoman Office has received 68 discrimination complaints based on race, ethnicity, skin colour, national origin, and 12 based on religion. In misdemeanour proceedings, Bosniaks or Muslims who are harassed based on their nationality and religion, are oftentimes called “balije” or as “being connected with Islamists”. The report notes that asylum seekers, refugees and migrants are especially exposed to unequal treatment due to their race, ethnicity or colour, or national origin.
In cases of hate crimes, the motive for committing the offence in most cases was hatred on a national basis, or religious affiliation - in 22 cases. While reporting on asylum seekers and refugees, the report notes that although rare, racist attacks do occur, including physical injuries. The report also concludes that despite the growth of Islamophobia in Europe and the world, the position of members of the Islamic religious community in Croatia has remained unchanged, thanks to its long tradition.
Methodology (Qualitative/Quantitative and exact type used, questionnaires etc)
Quantitative and qualitative methods. The report is based on the citizens’ complaints submitted to the Office as well as on the data collected through the regular cooperation with the relevant stakeholders, field visits, media reports and the information
contributed for this purpose by the government institutions and other public bodies, social partners, religious communities, CSOs and many others.
Sample details and representativeness
N/A