Croatian opposition parties are proposing a ban on the fascist salute, but the proposal includes controversial loopholes.

12 September 2025

BIRN

SDP proposes amending law to penalize glorification of fascist symbols like the Ustasa salute, while allowing some exceptions.

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[This is an automatically generated summary, for reference only]

Following growing public outcry over the use of fascist symbols, particularly the World War II-era Ustasa salute, the head of Croatia’s main opposition Social Democratic Party (SDP) announced plans to propose amendments to the country’s Misdemeanour and Criminal Codes within a month. The proposed changes aim to penalize the glorification of regimes like the Ustasa and Chetniks, as well as the denial or glorification of post-World War II crimes. The SDP leader stated he does not support a complete ban on fascist symbols, arguing that memorials and graves displaying such symbols should remain. The SDP anticipates two legal exceptions: for official use of the salute by HOS units between 1991 and 1995, and for insignia displayed in public places, including cemeteries, as part of veteran tributes. Former HDZ Prime Minister Jadranka Kosor criticized the proposal, accusing the SDP of hypocrisy and constitutional violations.

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