Croatia’s Parliament kicked off its first session of the week earlier than usual due to a heated debate over the 2024 budget proposal. The session began with presentations from various parties, including Most’s Marin Miletić, who spoke about the importance of family-focused policies and promoting pro-natal measures while criticizing others for promoting gender ideology. He also emphasized the need for a safe Croatia and for the nation to be a part of the EU on certain terms.

Meanwhile, Sovereignist leader Marijan Pavliček took aim at Minister of Agriculture Marija Vučković for her handling of the African swine fever outbreak. On the other hand, SDP’s Branko Grcic discussed the budget, expressing concerns about the deficit and increased expenditures. Jelena Miloš of the We Can Club criticized the government for lacking necessary reforms in housing, education, healthcare, and employment policies. She highlighted the housing crisis and emigration due to low wages.

Marijana Puljak, representing the Center Club, GLAS, and First Name Party, expressed deep concern about the state of Croatia’s education system. She questioned the values promoted by Prime Minister Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović and her ruling party on issues like doctorate plagiarism, academic honesty, and education’s importance. She emphasized that rebuilding Croatia’s education system as a foundation for social and economic growth was essential. This marked just a preview of