President Zoran Milanovic faces tough reelection battle this Sunday

Croatia is navigating a significant political landscape as the presidential election approaches, marked by the current left-leaning president Zoran Milanovic, who is a notable critic of Western support for Ukraine amid its war with Russia. The election has drawn considerable public focus, featuring candidates from diverse political backgrounds and ideologies, highlighting the nation's varied perspectives on foreign policy and national identity. As the incumbent president, Milanovic's campaign faces challenges, including a high-profile corruption scandal affecting the ruling party, the Croatian Democratic Union, which has endorsed his main rival, Dragan Primorac. This rivalry outlines the contrasting visions for Croatia's future, with Milanovic advocating for a more neutral stance in international conflicts, while Primorac promotes closer ties with the West. If no candidate secures over 50% of the vote in the initial round, a runoff is scheduled for January 12, 2025, demonstrating the competitive and divided nature of Croatian politics. Moreover, the election is occurring against a backdrop of significant socio-economic concerns, such as population decline and rising corruption issues, which candidates like conservative Marija Selak Raspudic have prioritized in their campaigns, appealing to the electorate's pressing concerns. The outcome of this election could have lasting implications for Croatia's political and economic direction as it continues to balance its NATO and EU obligations alongside its national interests.