THE COMMON CHALLENGES BRING US CLOSER TOGETHER H.E. WENDY DORMAN-SMITH Ambassador of Ireland to Croatia
TIMO
MUSEUMS ARE OR CAN BE HUBS FOR BRINGING THE COMMUNITY TOGETHER AROUND IMPORTANT TOPICS AND EVENTS
MARKITA FRANULIĆ
KREŠIMIR
Director of the Nikola Tesla Technical Museum
PHOTO: Office of the President
the Republic of Croatia / Tomislav Bušljeta, Filip Glas, Dario Andrišek, Marko Beljan
BOBAN SPASOJEVIĆ, Magazine Director Croatia and Editor in Chief boban@diplomacyandcommerce.hr
VLADIMIR DUDAŠ
C e n t r o b i r o Art Director
GORANKA MILOŠEVIĆ Translation
Representative for the Republic of Croatia ASPEKT obrt za savjetovanje i usluge
Owner of the license/ magazine name Diplomacy&Commerce
ROBERT ČOBAN Director
A YEAR FULL OF CHALLENGES AND OUR ADAPTATION TO THE SAME
FOREWORD
BOBAN SPASOJEVIĆ
Executive Director and Editor-in-Chief
Dear readers,
In a time of major geopolitical shifts and a world that is completely different compared to just six months ago, we have spent a lot of time reflecting on whether, from our perspective and the work we do – which is information dissemination – we should “tackle” all these changes, fearing that we might inadvertently get caught up in daily politics, which is something we absolutely do not want.
CONTENTS
12 NEW EUROPEAN COMMISSION: MEMBERS AND OBJECTIVES
18
NEW PACT ON ASYLUM AND MIGRATION
DR. SC. EMINA BUŽINKIĆ
Migration Justice Expert at the Institute for Development and International Relations
We are giving ourselves enough time to let everything settle and to gain a clear understanding of the situation. We remain true to ourselves, and to you, continuing to cover all the topics as we have in the past, bringing together everything that makes life better and creates a significant difference compared to the average. The Diplomacy&Commerce team has been preparing high-quality content for you for a full 7 years, but we are also open to your suggestions and proposals if you have any, to make us even better. This year, as well as last year, we have planned 4 issues. What you have in front of you is the first one for 2025. Here are some events I recommend for you in the coming days, until our next issue:
• The climbing season is beginning on Mount Everest. For the first time, drones will be used to carry supplies up and waste down in an effort to reduce the amount of waste on the mountain.
• The first Formula 1 race of this year will take place in Australia. The season, which includes 24 races, will end in Abu Dhabi on December 7th
• The 2025 World Expo will begin in April in Osaka, Japan, and will last until October 13th. It will be held on Yumeshima (lit. “Dream Island”), an artificial island in Osaka Bay. The theme is “Designing Future Society for Our Lives.”
• In May, Ryanair, Europe’s largest airline, will eliminate paper boarding passes and check-ins at airports in favour of fully digital travel documents and processes.
• The Biennale of Architecture will open in Venice, running until November 23rd. The curator is Carlo Ratti, and the theme is “Intelligence.”
24
MODERN EDUCATION WITH PRACTICE IS BEST FOR STUDENTS
MORANA ERDELJA International Student Enrollment Coordinator international relations office of Algebra Bernays University
25
THE NEW HIGH SCHOOL IN ZAGREB
Bright Horizons International British School
26
UNDERSTANDING NEGOTIATION STYLES Center for Lifelong Learning at Libertas International University
32
PRESIDENT MILANOVIĆ TOOK THE CEREMONIAL OATH FOR HIS SECOND FIVE-YEAR TERM AS PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF CROATIA
PIONEERS IN NATURAL AND HOLISTIC COSMETICS
The common challenges bring us closer together
With Croatia working towards becoming an OECD member, Ireland having become a strong economic actor, and both of us members of the EU, creates the foundation for an increased bilateral economic relationship
H.E. WENDY
DORMAN-SMITH
Ambassador of Ireland to Croatia
Ireland is in second place in the European Union in terms of GDP per capita, which is 79,300 EUR. As the ambassador of such a successful country, H.E. Wendy Dorman-Smith for Diplomacy&Commerce magazine reveals how much interest Irish companies have in Croatia and in which areas. After more than half a year in Zagreb, she also reveals to us the projects that the Embassy is planning for cultural rapprochement and education.
The world we live in is changing rapidly. Ireland and Croatia have found their way within the EU, and although Ireland is not a member of NATO, they do cooperate. How would you assess the relations between the two countries?
Ireland has been a member of what is now the EU for more than 50 years, having been part of the first enlargement, and Croatia has a little more than a decade of membership behind it after the EU’s 7th enlargement. Ireland’s development and advancement since joining the EU has shown how much a country can benefit from EU membership. We were very pleased to help Croatia during its path to membership, and we continue to have excellent bilateral relations and work together as EU members.
Last month, we marked the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our two countries. Ireland and Croatia are two of the smaller EU countries, one on the western periphery, the other in the east, but the common challenges bring us closer together and we cooperate to ensure that those challenges are best addressed within the EU.
IRISH COMPANIES ARE PRIMARILY INVOLVED IN SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT, HIGHVALUE BUSINESS SERVICES AND PROJECT MANAGEMENT / ENGINEERING OPERATIONS
Ireland is not a NATO member, due to our tradition of military neutrality, However, we are not politically neutral and take security issues very seriously. Ireland joined NATO’s Partnership for Peace programme in 1999 and more recently we have joined a new Individually Tailored Partnership Programme (ITPP) with NATO in order to increase our capabilities at countering potential threats to undersea infrastructure. We all share a need to feel secure and cooperation that strengthens our security is welcome.
already some Irish companies that have established themselves here in Croatia. I have had the pleasure of visiting DCT, Digital Construction Technologies, which is based in Zagreb, and learned about the really interesting work they do as they aim to enhance how projects are designed, built, and managed. And when I travel to Osijek later this year I am looking forward to visiting H&MV Engineering who opened an office there about 18 months ago, and learning more about their work.
Together with our colleagues in Enterprise Ireland, I look forward to making connections and to establishing more relationships between Croatian and Irish businesses. We definitely see potential for development and expansion in our bilateral economic relationship, and I see a willingness and indeed eagerness on both sides to make things happen.
What areas of investment are interesting to Irish investors and is that two-way cooperation? What are the figures when we talk about investments, ventures, trade...?
In Croatia and across this region, Irish companies are primarily involved in software development, high-value business services and project management / engineering operations.
Ireland is in second place in the European Union in terms of GDP per capita, which is 79,300 EUR, which is significantly above the EU average. Ireland’s share in the total EU GDP is 3%. This is also reflected in Irish investments abroad. How would you assess the economic relations between the two countries?
Whilst Ireland and Croatia have not had a particularly strong bilateral economic relationship over the years, that is improving, and I shall be working to ensure it hopefully continues to do so. There are
Ireland’s Central Statistics Office have recently released the trade in goods figures for 2024, and whilst bilateral trade in goods has increased overall, from EUR 114 million in 2023 to EUR 162 million last year, the increase is in Ireland’s favour. I believe the significant bilateral trade in services is also growing, and we are awaiting the 2024 figures. It would be great to see Croatian exports to Ireland increase as well, and hopefully we can continue to increase overall bilateral trade in goods and also in services.
A large number of Croatians have moved to Ireland to live and work, thus contributing to the development of your country. Do you know how many Croatians live and work in Ireland today and what is your opinion on this?
A significant number of Croatians moved to Ireland after Croatia joined the EU, they have established themselves there and become a part of their various communities, and are contributing to
Ireland in many different ways. We don’t have exact current figures but I see many benefits in this free movement of people. On a very practical level, recent reports show that significant remittances come back to family in Croatia from Croatians in Ireland, so Croatia is also benefitting financially. And less tangibly, we all learn from each other, so Croatians who have moved to Ireland spread the word about Croatia, and they may bring novel ways of doing things and new ideas to share in their lives and workplaces in Ireland. And when they return to Croatia, as some are doing, they can bring new ideas back here, and sometimes bring business with them too. They can return with different ways of doing things, knowledge, skills, contacts and sometimes with the financial capability and an entrepreneurial spirit, which is strong in Ireland, to maybe start projects of their own here, which will further benefit Croatians and Croatia.
How well do the Irish know Croatia, which is recognized in the world as a tourist power of the Mediterranean, considering its size and population?
I would say that the Irish know Croatia very well, both as a tourist destination from personal experience and from friends, and also from the Croatians living in Ireland who we have mentioned. The majority of Irish tourists go to the coast, although with the number of family and friends who started making plans to visit me in Zagreb as soon as they heard I was coming here, we may increase the numbers here! Whilst the Croatian coast and the islands are of course stunningly beautiful, and will deservedly always be a popular destination, the country has so much more to offer and I hope Irish people – and not just my family and friends! –explore and discover more of the country.
The numbers of Irish nationals travelling to Croatia is continuing to rebound post pandemic, and last year 124,000 visited, an increase from the previous year. Whilst Ireland is not in the top 20 origin countries for tourists to Croatia, Ireland is a small country so the numbers who come here is a significant number for us.
What are the Embassy’s plans to strengthen relations between the two countries, especially in the areas of culture and education? Can you tell us about some of your plans?
ONE OF THE GREAT THINGS ABOUT BEING IRISH IS THAT THERE ARE MANY PEOPLE WORLDWIDE WHO HAVE AN AMAZING AFFINITY FOR ALL THINGS IRISH
Culture and education are two very important areas for Ireland. I am lucky to have come to an Embassy which was already active in both areas, so I am building on a strong base. One of the great things about being Irish is that there are many people worldwide who have an amazing affinity for all things Irish. That definitely holds true here in Croatia, with the added benefit of many direct connections with Ireland also.
It was a small group of enthusiasts who added Croatia to the list of countries celebrating Bloomsday every year. I was not here when they started their project more than a decade ago, but I am definitely going to Pula this June to celebrate the life and works of James Joyce, who left Ireland and went to this historic port city at the beginning of the 20th century. We also celebrated Joyce in Zagreb last year with readings and Irish dancing.
Croatia has had a number of Irish dance groups over the years that have performed all over the country and I understand have been part of television programmes here.
Ireland’s newest public holiday is St Brigid’s Day, and I was pleased to welcome local Irish dancing and culture group Irski Ples to our first
Edison in Karlovac and show two Irish films. Hopefully, we’ll continue to be partners with the Kino Edison in the years to come. Staying with film, we have not had a film festival over the last few years, but we are always looking for a partner to work with. The Embassy has a good relationship with LADO and have had a joint project in the past. I would love if we can find another opportunity in the coming years to showcase our culture jointly.
On education, we regularly make presentations to local schools in Croatia, sometimes they visit the Embassy and sometimes we travel to visit them. We have a good relationship with some of the Croatian universities and are always looking for opportunities to build links between education institutions in Croatia and Ireland, whether universities or other specialist schools.
St Brigid’s Day celebration in Zagreb earlier this year.
The Embassy helped to establish the Croatian Celts GAA club a few years ago and they play against other GAA clubs in the region. The GAA, short for Gaelic Athletic Association, promotes Gaelic games and culture and is Ireland’s largest sporting organisation, with clubs around the world as well as in every parish at home. The Zagreb club has hosted European GAA clubs, from Maastricht and Eindhoven, Prague and Bratislava, and expect to be hosting more in the near future. In addition, they are no strangers to travel themselves, with participation in several Central Eastern European Championships.
Coming back to Joyce – but also to other Irish authors – we have added to the bookshelves of a number of libraries and schools across the country and we also promote and support events involving Irish authors that come here. I really enjoyed atending the first Lopud Book Bridge event last September where I got to meet some wonderful Irish and Croatian authors and have added to my reading list. I am looking forward to attending the event again later this year.
In March, we are going to continue our cooperation with the Kino
You have been enjoying yourself in Zagreb for some time now, besides work. When your friends ask you about Croatia, what do you tell them? Is there something you particularly like about a region, gastronomy...? I am very much enjoying my time here. The first thing I tell friends is that the people are great. I feel that there are many similarities in personality and outlook between Croatians and Irish, which may be why I am so comfortable here already. I have been remiss in not studying Croatian more, and I love that most people here have excellent English and I can have random interactions and conversations. I love the antiquity of places like Split, Dubrovnik, Pula and Varaždin, to name a few. I am also looking forward to having more visitors and taking them to visit places as I discover them.
I am really enjoying being able to drive around the country, using the excellent road network to explore out of the way places. And of course I have barely started to explore the islands. Being from the island of Ireland myself, and having grown up beside the sea, I love the coast, the sea and visiting islands. I have been lucky to have managed to visit many islands around the world, and I’m really looking forward to exploring some of the Croatian islands. Before I arrived everyone was telling me about all the wonderful meat dishes here, but I don’t eat meat. What people didn’t say is that there is really good vegetarian food, and of course the fish and seafood is amazing. I love shopping at markets for fruit and vegetables and trying to practice my Croatian numbers.
Croatia presents a dynamic market with strong potential
German companies see opportunities here, particularly in sectors such as manufacturing, renewable energy, and digitalization—especially when it comes to diversifying supply chains
TIMO PLEYER
Director of the German-Croatian Chamber of Industry and Commerce
My first 100 days in Croatia were spent visiting numerous companies, institutions, and partners, allowing me to gain valuable insights into the country’s business environment, for Diplomacy&Commerce says Timo Pleyer, Director of the German-Croatian Chamber of Indus-
try and Commerce. Croatia presents a dynamic market with strong potential, particularly due to its EU membership, strategic location, and skilled workforce explains Mr. Pleyer
You are the Head of one of the largest and most important foreign business chambers in Croatia. How would you assess the business climate in our country?
German companies see opportunities here, particularly in sectors such as manufacturing, renewable energy, and digitalization—especially when it comes to diversifying supply chains, where Croatia plays an important role. At the same time, challenges remain. Many businesses mention administrative complexities and would like to see a more investment-friendly environment. Croatia offers a stable economic framework, but there is still room to enhance competitiveness through regulatory efficiency, a more predictable tax environment, and greater investment in innovation. Overall, I see significant potential for GermanCroatian economic cooperation. Strengthening partnerships, reducing bureaucratic hurdles, and fostering a more innovation-driven economy will help Croatia position itself even more strongly in the region. As the AHK Croatia, the largest bilateral business association, we are committed to supporting this progress and providing our members with the best possible framework for success. We consistently focus on strengthening German-Croatian economic relations.
What do the numbers and statistics show? What were the imports, exports, investments, and in which areas in 2024? Are the investments two-way and to what extent?
CROATIA’S EXPORTS TO GERMANY AMOUNTED TO 2.39 BILLION EUROS, MARKING A SLIGHT INCREASE OF 1.2% COMPARED TO THE SAME PERIOD IN 2023.
Trade between Croatia and Germany continues to play a crucial role in Croatia’s economic landscape. According to the latest data for the period January to October 2024, Croatia’s exports to Germany amounted to 2.39 billion euros, marking a slight increase of 1.2% compared to the same period in 2023. At the same time, imports from Germany reached 5.01 billion euros, reflecting a 6.2% increase. In terms of investments, German companies have been active in various sectors, including manufacturing and infrastructure. While most German investments flow into Croatia, Croatian investments in Germany remain limited but are gradually increasing, especially in the IT and service industries. Strengthening two-way investments will further deepen economic cooperation and create new business opportunities. In order to achieve the targets in the field of renewable energies and to realize the given potential. Croatia offers good climatic and geological conditions for renewable energies, and there is great potential for expansion. Investors can orient themselves very well here.
We also address the topic of renewable energies through various programs, delegation trips and projects. A great project is the Young Energy Europe initiative. The project is funded by the European Climate Initiative (EUKI) of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK) and is carried out together with the foreign chambers of commerce of the partner countries.
Where is there room for improvement when it comes to business and how is your cooperation with decisionmakers?
One of the most frequently mentioned challenges by businesses in Croatia is bureaucratic complexity. Many companies, particularly foreign investors, face lengthy administrative procedures, regulatory uncertainties, and a complex tax system. These issues are consistently highlighted in our annual Economic Survey. As a result, AHK Croatia often supports businesses in navigating company registration processes, legal and tax compliance, and overall market entry. Additionally, we see strong demand for business partner searches and B2B matchmaking, as companies seek reliable connections to expand their operations. When it comes to cooperation with decision-makers, we maintain an open and professional approach, working to represent the interests of our members. Our priority is to ensure that businesses have access to relevant information and that their needs are effectively communicated within the broader economic dialogue.
What are the priorities of the AHK for 2025 and which projects you are working on would you highlight?
The priorities of AHK Croatia for 2025 focus on strengthening economic cooperation, supporting businesses in expanding their market presence, and promoting key industries through targeted initiatives and partnerships. Several strategic projects will shape our activities in 2025. Within the framework of the Export Initiative Energy, we are organizing a business delegation trip focused on building efficiency and renovation. Another key initiative is the delegation trip to Baden-Württemberg, organized on behalf of the IHK Export Academy Stuttgart, which will highlight Smart Cities and E-Mobility. As part of the Bavaria – Fit for Partnership program,
we will focus on medical technology and health tourism. Additionally, we are preparing the 3rd Bavarian-Croatian Hydrogen Forum, bringing together key stakeholders from the energy sector. In the area of hydrogen technologies, we are also planning a delegation trip to the Netherlands and North RhineWestphalia (NRW) to explore new business opportunities and strengthen cooperation. Through these projects, we aim to support companies in their internationalization efforts, drive innovation, and promote sustainable economic growth between Germany and Croatia. We will also expand our chamber even further to become a business-2-business network for our member companies, on different levels and topics.
AHK is also known for taking care of its members and organizing many professional trips for German businessmen. How important is the exchange of experience and personal contact in business and how
about market-specific opportunities and challenges.
There are many German companies in Croatia and they employ a large number of people. In which areas are German investors most interested and to what extent are these investments compatible with the needs of the German economy, and how much attention is paid to the compatibility of both markets?
Germany is one of the largest foreign investors in Croatia, with total German investments in the country amounting to nearly 5 billion euros as of mid2024. While investment flows were particularly strong in the post-COVID period until 2023, new investments in early 2024 were more modest, though several projects are currently in the preparation phase. German investors are primarily interested in sectors that align with both Croatia’s economic potential and Germany’s industrial needs.
AHK CROATIA SUPPORTS BUSINESSES IN NAVIGATING COMPANY REGISTRATION
PROCESSES, LEGAL AND TAX COMPLIANCE, AND OVERALL MARKET ENTRY.
many of them have realized any concrete cooperation?
As a member-based organization and service provider, we offer the ideal platform for networking and collaboration. We cannot specify the exact number of successful cooperations. However, looking at 2023, in that year alone, we organized 17 delegation and study trips to Germany, Croatia, and other EU countries, each with a different thematic focus, attracting more than 230 participants. In addition, we hosted 49 professional and networking events with over 2,420 participants. At AHK Croatia, we strongly believe that the exchange of experience and personal contact are key drivers of successful business relationships. Our role goes beyond facilitating connections— we actively create opportunities for German and Croatian companies to engage in meaningful discussions, explore potential partnerships, and gain firsthand insights into new markets. Through our professional delegation trips, we provide German businesses with the chance to meet local industry experts, visit innovative companies, and learn
of Croatia compared to similar countries in the EU and the region and where do you see a good chance for further progress?
Key investment areas recently included manufacturing, renewable energy, automotive supply chains, and digital infrastructure. Notable projects in 2024 include Siemens Energy's joint venture with Končar and Rheinmetall’s collaboration with DOK-ING. The compatibility of German investments with Croatia’s market needs is an important consideration. Germany relies on stable supply chains and high-quality production facilities, and Croatia offers a skilled workforce, EU integration, and an expanding infrastructure sector. At the same time, Croatia benefits from technology transfer, job creation, and increased competitiveness through German partnerships. Bilateral economic cooperation is well-aligned with the needs of both markets, particularly in green energy, industrial automation, and high-tech manufacturing, ensuring mutual benefits for German investors and the Croatian economy.
What would you highlight as the comparative advantages
Croatia holds several comparative advantages compared to similar EU and regional countries, making it an attractive destination for investment and business development. One of Croatia’s strongest assets is its fast-growing economy, which has been among the fastest-expanding in the EU. In 2024, the country’s GDP is projected by 4.1% year-on-year, outpacing many of its regional competitors. This is supported by strong consumer confidence, rising wages, and strategic public and private investment. Another key advantage is Croatia’s successful use of EU funds. The country has been a leader in utilizing EU Recovery and Resilience Funds, with approximately 4.5 billion euros already allocated and an additional 5.5 billion euros to be spent by 2026. These funds contribute significantly to infrastructure development, digitalization, and green energy projects. Croatia is also experiencing growth in high-value industries, including medical products, pharmaceuticals, and metal processing, with exports in these sectors increasing notably. For instance, exports of medical devices and pharmaceuticals rose by 16.6% in the first eight months of 2024. Further progress can be achieved by addressing key challenges such as improving rail transport, strengthening legal certainty, and enhancing transparency in public procurement. Additionally, labor shortages in key sectors like construction and tourism could slow down longterm growth if not properly managed. By continuing to leverage its EU membership, increasing investments in high-tech industries, infrastructure and energy sector, Croatia is well-positioned to strengthen its role as a competitive logistics and energy hub in the region. As we look ahead to 2025, our focus is on promoting Croatia stronger in the following areas; renewable energies, digital transformation, infrastructure and construction, health, financial services and education and skills development. It is crucial to know which investments are investments in which values are created and anchored. This is how real resilience in economic relations is created. In these particularly turbulent times, this is of even higher importance.
Commission’s priorities
1 A NEW PLAN FOR EUROPE’S SUSTAINABLE PROSPERITY AND COMPETITIVENESS
Make business easier and faster
• introduce a Competitiveness Compass to close the innovation gap, decarbonise and increase security
• complete the Single Market in key sectors to allow companies to scale up
• implement a new approach to competition policy
• reduce administrative burden and reduce reporting obligations by at least 25% and at least 35% for SMEs
• stress-test the EU acquis and make proposals to simplify and codify legislation to eliminate overlaps and contradictions, while maintaining high standards
• propose a new EU-wide legal status to help innovative companies grow
• have a new SME and competitiveness check to help avoid unnecessary administrative burden
• propose to renew the Interinstitutional agreement on simplification and better law-making
Build a new Clean Industrial Deal
• present a Clean Industrial Deal to make our industry competitive and create quality jobs
• propose to set out a 90% emission-reduction target for 2040 in the European Climate Law
• support industries and companies through the transition by launching an Industrial Decarbonisation Accelerator Act, helping to speed up related planning, tendering and permitting
• reduce energy costs for households and businesses by completing the Energy Union
• invest in clean energy infrastructure and technologies
• activate and extend our aggregate demand mechanism to go beyond gas and include hydrogen and critical raw materials
• secure supplies of raw materials, clean energy and clean tech with the development of clean trade and investment partnerships
• continue to be a leader in international climate negotiations
• encourage rail travel and propose a Single Digital Booking and Ticketing Regulation, to ensure that Europeans can buy one single ticket on one single platform and get passengers’ rights for their whole trip
• continue to step up our enforcement of the EU digital laws
• tackle challenges with e-commerce platforms
• step up investment in supercomputing, semiconductors, the Internet of Things, genomics, quantum computing, and space tech
• ensure access to supercomputing capacity for AI startups and industry via an AI Factories initiative
• boost new industrial uses of AI and improve public services with an Apply AI Strategy
• pool all our resources through a new European AI Research Council
• ensure seamless and at-scale data sharing with a European Data Union Strategy
Turbo charge investment
• put forward risk-absorbing measures to make it easier for commercial banks, investors and venture capital to finance fast-growing companies
• review our rules to address barriers that restrict the amount of European capital available to finance innovation
Work towards a more circular and resilient economy
• help to create market demand for secondary materials and a single market for waste through a new Circular Economy Act
• put forward a new chemicals industry package, providing clarity on ‘forever chemicals’, or PFAS
• work to complete the European Health Union, diversifying supply chains, fostering access to most advanced treatments, making the health and pharmaceutical sector more resilient
• work on reducing dependencies on critical medicines and ingredients by putting forward a Critical Medicines Act
• step up our work on preventive health, in particular for mental health, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, as well on treatments for degenerative illnesses and research on autism
• safeguard the security of our healthcare systems by proposing a European action plan on the cybersecurity of hospitals and healthcare providers
Boost productivity with digital tech diffusion
• encourage investments in digital infrastructures to improve access to secure, fast and reliable connectivity
• leverage private savings to invest in innovation and the clean and digital transitions with the establishment of a European Savings and Investments Union
• revise public procurement rules to enable preference to be given to European products for certain strategic sectors
• develop strategic technologies and manufacture them in Europe by establishing a European Competitiveness Fund that will also support Important Projects of Common Interest
Tackle the skills and labour gapsestablish a Union of Skills which will focus on investment, lifelong learning and skill retention
• work to improve basic skills
• propose a STEM Education Strategic Plan to address decline in performance, the lack of qualified teachers in areas linked to science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) and bring more girls into STEM education and careers
• promote vocational education and training (VET) with a European Strategy for VET
• boost and refocus skills funding in the EU budget
• ensure cross-country skill recognition by putting forward a Skills Portability Initiative and continue to work towards a European Degree
2
A NEW ERA FOR EUROPEAN DEFENCE AND SECURITY
Build a European Defence Union
• help Member States rebuild, replenish, and transform national armed forces by building upon the existing defence industrial programmes, to invest in highend capabilities in critical areas such as naval, ground, air combat, space-based early warning and cyber
• help pool resources and counter common threats through flagship European Defence projects to be ultimately decided by Member States
• develop a Single Market for Defence products and services, enhancing defence research and development, production capacity and fostering joint procurement
Central to this work will be further strengthening EU-NATO cooperation.
European military forces participating in military exercises
Enhance the EU’s preparedness and crisis management
• better preparing the whole of society for possible crises, including the citizens and the private sector
• strengthening our foresight and anticipation capabilities
• addressing new threats, in particular those linked to chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) and cybersecurity
• supporting medical countermeasures against public health threats, including joint procurement and stockpiling
View of the Emergency Response Coordination Centre (ERCC)
Ensure a safer and more secure Europe
• a new European Internal Security Strategy to help ensure that security is integrated into EU legislation
• a new European action plan against drug trafficking, which will see us work with partners to close routes and business models of drug traffickers
• a new counter-terrorism agenda to address new and emerging threats and to take a stronger approach to terrorist financing and anti-radicalisation
Members of the Garda Siochana (Irish Police) patrolling in Dublin city
Strengthen common borders
• put in place a fully functional digital border management system
• implement an integrated border management approach
• develop and EU Visa Policy Strategy
• ensure a complete and fully functioning Schengen area
Stand fair and firm on migration
• implement the Pact on Migration and Asylum and frame our forward-looking vision in the first five-year European Migration and Asylum Strategy
• put forward a new common approach on returns to speed up and simplify the process
• continue developing strategic relations with non-EU countries
• work with Member States to open up legal pathways to migration, based on the skills needs of our economies and our regions
3
SUPPORTING PEOPLE, STRENGTHENING OUR SOCIETIES AND OUR SOCIAL MODEL
Promoting social fairness in the modern economy
• set out a new action plan on the implementation of the European Pillar of Social Rights to reach our 2030 social headline targets
• support fair wages, good working conditions, training and fair job-to-job transitions through a new Quality Jobs Roadmap
• strengthen European social dialogue through a new Pact for European Social Dialogue
• address the root causes of poverty through the first-ever EU Anti-Poverty Strategy
• prevent and combat social exclusion of children through edu-
cation, healthcare and essential public services by strengthening the Child Guarantee
• tackle the housing crisis by putting forward the first-ever European Affordable Housing Plan and creating a pan-European investment platform for affordable and sustainable housing
• rolling out the Social Climate Fund to support renovations and energy-efficient housing
• tackle the root causes of demographic change
• reduce regional disparities so Europeans can live and work in the place they call home
Reuniting our societies and supporting young people
• work on safeguarding the rights of minorities
• strengthen Erasmus+ to allow more Europeans to gain new skills and develop a better mutual understanding
• organise annual Youth Policy Dialogues to ensure young people can use their voice to shape the future of the EU
• set up a Youth Advisory Board with young people from all Member States to advise the President of the Commission on youth issues
• conduct an EU-wide inquiry on the broader impacts of social media on people’s well-being
• address the addictive design of online services
• create an action plan against cyberbullying
• make it easier for people to benefit from Europe’s rich and diverse cultural heritage
Building a true Union of equality
• update the strategy for LGBTIQ equality and develop a new antiracism strategy, so that everyone can thrive and lead, regardless of who they are
• develop a roadmap for women’s rights and a new strategy for gender equality
4
SUSTAINING OUR QUALITY OF LIFE: FOOD SECURITY, WATER AND NATURE
Build a competitive and resilient agriculture and food system, safeguarding biodiversity
• present a Vision for Agriculture and Food to ensure the long-term competitiveness and sustainability of our farming sector
• ensure that the EU budget and the EU common agricultural policy are targeted, with the right balance between incentives, investments and regulation
• support family farms and enable farmers to work their land without excessive bureaucracy
• reward farmers who work with nature, preserve biodiversity and natural ecosystems and help to decarbonise our economy
• support the competitiveness of our entire food value chain through investment and innovation on farms, in cooperatives, agri-food businesses and SMEs
• protect Europe’s food sovereignty, including fisheries in our coastal communities
• propose a European Oceans Pact that will boost the blue economy and ensure the sustainability of our oceans
• strengthen Europe’s water security and promote competitiveness of EU’s water industry by presenting a European Water Resilience Strategy
• work on incentives for nature positive actions and private investments in nature, in particular by developing nature credits
• work towards meeting our international biodiversity commitments, such as those taken in the Kunming Montreal Agreement
Boost climate adaptation, preparedness and solidarity
• aim to develop a European Civil Defence Mechanism, looking at all facets of crisis and disaster management, along community resilience building
• step up work on climate resilience and preparedness
• develop a European Climate Adaptation Plan, to support Member States with preparedness and planning and ensure regular science-based risk assessments
5
PROTECTING OUR DEMOCRACY, UPHOLDING OUR VALUES
Protecting our democracy
• propose a new European Democracy Shield to counter foreign information manipulation and interference online, by detecting, analysing and proactively countering disinformation and information manipulation as well as hybrid threats
• work to increase digital and media literacy to improve societal resilience and preparedness
• create a European network of fact-checkers which will be available in all EU languages
• continue to step up digital enforcement, including of the Digital Services Act and AI Act, to ensure a fair and open online platform environment, prevent dissemination of misinformation and deepfakes and protect civic discourse and electoral processes
• address emerging threats to the integrity of elections across Europe, including by ensuring that transparency requirements in the AI Act, the Digital Services Act and the transparency of political advertising regulation are implemented and strengthening our approach to AI-produced content
Strengthening the rule of law
• consolidate the Rule of Law Report and ensure it looks at all issues across Europe, including by adding the Single Market dimension to the report
• continue to improve our monitoring and reporting on the rule of law, and to strengthen checks and balances, notably by tracking the implementation of recommendations
• invest in upholding the rule of law through EU funding for national measures, for example on fighting corruption
• ensure that respect for the rule of law is a must for EU funds, by building a closer link between the recommendations in the Rule of Law Report and financial support
• make sure that the general regime of conditionality is applied to all EU funds in the future long-term budget
• support free media across the Union by implementing the European Media Freedom Act and increasing our support for and protection of independent media and journalists
Putting citizens at the heart of our democracy
• regularly choose policy areas where recommendations from a European Citizens’ Panel would have the greatest value, and follow up on the citizens’ recommendations
• step up our engagement with civil society organisations that have expertise and an important role to play in defending specific societal issues and upholding human rights
• strengthen the network of more than 3,000 local councillors to get a better understanding of how the EU impacts everyday life
6
A GLOBAL EUROPE: LEVERAGING OUR POWER AND PARTNERSHIP
• ensure that each country looking to join the EU is assessed on its own progress towards meeting all accession criteria, including those on rule of law and fundamental values, which will
continue to be the cornerstones of the EU’s enlargement policy
• step up support to prepare candidate countries, notably using the investment and reforms in the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans and the Ukraine Facility
A more strategic approach to our neighbourhood
• strengthening our relations with the Mediterranean with a new Pact for the Mediterranean. This will focus on investment and partnerships, economic stability, job creation, energy, and security in the region.
• working for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the release of all hostages, and an increase in the flow of humanitarian assistance to Gaza
• delivering an EU-Middle East Strategy that will seek to bring a just resolution to the ongoing conflict in Gaza and pave the way for a two-state solution to ensure security for both Israelis and Palestinians
A new economic foreign policy
• boost our competitiveness at home and invest in research into strategic technologies
• protect our economy from technology leakage and security concerns
• complete the review of foreign direct investment screening, build a coordinated approach to export controls, and address risks from outbound investments
• deepen our free and fair-trade links with growth centres and partners around the world
• develop new clean trade and investment partnerships and deepen our relationships on critical minerals and raw materials
• improve rules-based trade, including through a reformed and strengthened World Trade Organization
• enforce our trade agreements and use all of our trade defence instruments where and when needed
• take Global Gateway, our initiative to invest in infrastructure projects worldwide, to the next level through a Team Europe approach
• propose a new Strategic EU-India Agenda and strengthen our cooperation with ASEAN
• work with Japan, Korea, New Zealand and Australia
• drive investments in infrastructure, renewable energy generation, and raw material value chains in Africa
• deepen the cooperation between the EU and Latin America and the Caribbean through Global Gateway investment
Reshaping multilateralism for today’s world
• actively participating in international summits, like the UN Summit for the Future, that call, among others, for equitable representation for all regions and tackle development and debt
• responding better to the concerns of our partners impacted by European legislation
• finding a more systematic approach to assessing the impact of our laws on non-EU countries and providing more targeted support to help them adjust to and benefit from those laws
7 DELIVERING TOGETHER AND PREPARING OUR UNION FOR THE FUTURE
A new budget fit for our ambitions
• propose a new long-term budget in 2025 that is more focused on our priorities, simpler in the way it works, and more impactful through increased leverage of national, private and institutional financing
• provide EU funds only where the rule of law is respected
• strengthen and modernise revenues for the EU budget with new own resources to ensure sufficient financing for our common priorities
• revamp our external action financing, to make it more impactful and targeted for our partners and more aligned with our strategic interests
Source: European Commission Office in Croatia
New Pact on Asylum and Migration
The European Commission has obliged the Member States to adopt national plans
DR. SC. EMINA BUŽINKIĆ
Migration Justice Expert at the Institute for Development and International Relations
After eight years of discussion and preparation, the European Parliament adopted the New Pact on Migration and Asylum and it is now up to the member states to adopt it and start implementation. What is new about the pact and how will it affect the lives of those it applies to, as well as all Europeans, for Diplomacy&Commerce magazine explains dr. sc. Emina Bužinkić, Migration Justice Expert at the Institute for Development and International Relations.
What does the plan entail that is new compared to previous policies in this area and when is its full implementation expected in the Member States?
System (CEAS), it tightens control over migration and asylum processes, focusing more on preventing migration than ensuring protection.
MIGRATION CANNOT BE CONTROLLED—IT SHOULD NOT BE
The New Pact on Migration and Asylum, adopted after years of discussion, is a troubling extension of the EU’s long-standing, restrictive, security-first approach to migration governance. Building on the Dublin Regulation and the Common European Asylum
By tying cooperation on migration to things like EU accession, it formally outsources border control to non-EU states, pushing the deterrence agenda even further; and
• Heightened Internal Control Measures: The Pact intensifies internal surveillance, border procedures, and restrictions on asylum seekers, reinforcing a trend of criminalizing migration. While presented as a way to improve efficiency, these measures further marginalize and violate the rights of people, particularly those from the Global South.
Regarding implementation, the new rules entered into force on 11 June 2024, with full implementation expected by mid-2026. Member States were required to submit their national implementation plans by December 2024 (Poveznice: home-affairs.ec.europa.eu, emn.ie).
What does the New Pact on Asylum and Migration bring? Can we highlight the key points? Certainly! There are 8 components: The Pact includes eight main components:
• Solidarity and Responsibility: A mandatory yet flexible mechanism for Member States to share responsibility for asylum seekers. States can relocate migrants, offer financial contributions, or provide other forms of support.
• Response to Crisis Situations: Member States can deviate from standard EU legal norms in crisis scenarios, enabling more flexible responses to sudden migration pressures.
• Screening at EU Borders: All individuals arriving at the EU’s external borders must undergo screening within five days to assess identity, health, and security risks.
• Accelerated Asylum Procedures: Asylum seekers from countries with low recognition rates will be subjected to accelerated procedures, aiming for decisions within 12 weeks.
What is new in this Pact compared to previous policies is the explicit institutionalization of two complementary strategies:
• The Externalization of EU Borders: The EU deepens its reliance on third countries to manage migration on its behalf.
• EURODAC System for Identification: A strengthened system to track asylum applications and irregular migration, facilitating the identification and monitoring of migrants.
• Standards for Qualification: Efforts to harmonize criteria across Member States for granting international protection, ensuring consistent recognition of those in need.
Choose Algebra Bernays University if you don’t want average.
• Reception Conditions: The Pact aims to standardize reception conditions to ensure humane and dignified treatment for asylum seekers.
• Safe and Legal Pathways: It emphasizes the importance of creating safe and legal routes for migrants, aiming to reduce reliance on smugglers and dangerous journeys.
What will be the biggest challenges in implementing the new document?
In the coated language that the EU officially uses, these reforms aim to create a more balanced and efficient approach to migration and asylum within the EU, emphasizing shared responsibility, streamlined procedures, and adaptability in crisis situations. In a grim reality, the Pact will most certainly lead to increased human rights violations at Europe’s borders and won’t sufficiently ease the pressure on states of first entry such as Greece.
Some of these challenges, from a justice perspective, include a severely restricted access to the asylum system, easier dismissal of claims without assessing their merits, and an expanded definition of “safe third countries” and “misleading authorities.” These changes could lead to prolonged detention of asylum seekers, including vulnerable groups such as children.
Additionally, the Pact fails to prevent illegal pushbacks, increases the risk of people being returned to unsafe countries, and provides no clear or effective mechanism for independent border monitoring. The solidarity mechanism allows Member States to avoid relocation and resettlement obligations through financial contributions, which is particularly concerning in a context where migrants and refugees are increasingly criminalized.
What is Croatia’s position in relation to the rest of the EU when it comes to migration and asylum, bearing in mind that we border non-member states, but also bearing in mind the cooperation with these states on jointly guarding the external border of the Union?
As a frontline state, Croatia has fully embraced the EU’s harsh migration agenda. Officially, it adheres to European asylum standards, but in practice, it is at the forefront of violent pushbacks and systematic human rights violations. Instead of pushing for hu-
THE PACT WILL MOST CERTAINLY LEAD TO INCREASED HUMAN RIGHTS VIOLATIONS AT EUROPE’S BORDERS AND WON’T SUFFICIENTLY EASE THE PRESSURE ON STATES OF FIRST ENTRY SUCH AS GREECE
mane policies, Croatian politicians across the spectrum contribute to the racialization and criminalization of migrants. Calls for vigilante groups to “deal with” migrants are not uncommon, while public officials promote detention centers as solutions to “the problem.”
Croatia’s collaboration with non-EU states like Bosnia and Herzegovina and Serbia extends the EU’s border control efforts, pushing the violence and abuses further beyond EU territory. This strategy allows both Croatia and the EU to sidestep responsibility for the suffering that occurs at these borders—violence, theft, and the denial of asylum.
Ultimately, migration justice is not a priority for Croatia’s political
leaders. The country is increasingly committed to policies of surveillance, detention, and repression—further dehumanizing people on the move while normalizing violence.
Despite the fact that the process of drafting the New Pact on Asylum and Migration lasted for years, concerns are being expressed in many aspects regarding respect for the human rights of refugees and migrants. The solidarity mechanism allows Member States to avoid the obligation to relocate and resettle through financial contributions, which is particularly sensitive in the context of the criminalization of
migrants and refugees. Do you think that the new solutions will be useful and could this issue have been resolved differently? The New Pact extends control, surveillance, detention, and deportation with little accountability. It legitimizes arbitrary decision-making, allowing states to criminalize migrants without consequence. The so-called solidarity mechanism, which allows Member States to opt out of relocation by paying for it, exemplifies how the EU treats human lives as commodities.
This framework exacerbates the criminalization of migration, with even children subjected to detention and interrogation. I recently visited graveyards in the Balkans, where countless migrants who perished trying to cross borders lie in unmarked graves. The Pact, by bolstering border regimes and externalizing control, guarantees more deaths. These individuals, even in death, remain nameless and forgotten—denied dignity both in life and in remembrance.
The issue of migration and asylum is at the top of the new EC’s priorities. How do you see Europe and the EU in this regard in 20 years and to what extent is this process realistically solvable, and to what extent will it still not be possible to control these processes?
Migration cannot be controlled—it should not be. Europe’s colonial past and its ongoing imperial practices must be confronted if justice is ever to be achieved. True migration justice means dismantling racialization, bridging the divides between the Global North and South, and confronting the systems of racial capitalism and exploitation that fuel migration. It requires recognizing that migration justice is inseparable from climate justice, and that all justice is fundamentally epistemic.
In twenty years, we must reject the security-driven approach and confront the root causes of migration. Only then can we begin dismantling these destructive systems and create a world where justice—not control—shapes migration policy. We must also cultivate a culture of true hospitality, one that stops viewing migrants as unwelcome intruders or temporary guests, and instead recognizes them as rightful members of our shared humanity. Such responsibility lies with academics, economists, journalists, and neighbors alike.
Crisis Communication – Take the Initiative and Lead the Story
The media today are not the only creators of public opinion, but they still have enough influence to both create and resolve a crisis
KREŠIMIR MACAN
Communication and political advisor, lecturer specializing in crisis communication, strategic communication in politics, digital social media, author of the Špica s Macanom podcast on current affairs, bit.ly/spicamacan
In times of fake news, social media, political turmoil, and an unstable environment, Croatia is a successful democracy that is overcoming most challenges, says Krešimir Macan, a communication and political advisor, lecturer special ized in crisis communication, strate gic communication in politics, and digital social media, and author of the podcast Špica s Macanom where he talks about current affairs (bit.ly/spi camacan). In an interview with Diplomacy&Commerce magazine, he explains the political situation from his professional perspective, discuss es the media, and talks about crisis communication, which is a frequent need for many in the public and political scene in the country.
As an expert in strategic communication in politics and a consultant in this field, how would you assess the general political situation in Croatia?
Overall, it seems quite stable, with excellent indicators like the highest GDP growth in the EU zone and the highest employment ever, but also the highest inflation, which, although high, still remains within acceptable limits compared to the double-digit numbers of 2022/23. We are witnessing an internal political dynamic since the parliamentary elections in April 2024. I like to say that every election is a story in itself, which has been confirmed in the three cycles so far in this super-election year that started in April 2024 with parliamentary elections, followed by EU elections, presidential elections, and ending with local elections on May 18. President Milanović, by getting in-
WITH THE RECENT REMOVAL OF FACTCHECKERS ON META PLATFORMS, WE RISK NOT HAVING ANYONE TO VERIFY THE TRUTHFULNESS OF CLAIMS MADE IN POSTS ON SOCIAL MEDIA
volved in the parliamentary campaign (although the Constitutional Court stopped this as unconstitutional with their warnings since he didn’t resign), managed to further push the SDP, which convincingly returned to second place in the polls, reducing the gap with HDZ. We are now witnessing a red wave of optimism, which can be seen in the polls and results. This is especially evident in the presidential elections, where Croatia became quite red in both rounds. However, HDZ responded equally well in the parliamentary elections, and with one of the highest turnouts at 62%, they convincingly won and entered their record third mandate with Andrej Plenković as Prime Minister and party
president. This result is due to both the campaign and the significant pay increases in the public sector that preceded the elections, which today caused a slightly higher inflation compared to the rest of the EU. The convincing re-election of President Milanović and Plenković’s awkward response on election night somewhat shifted public sentiment to the left, which could affect the local elections more than we initially thought. At the same time, we are witnessing significant dynamics on the far-right, where the Homeland Movement, as a key coalition partner of HDZ, has split and fallen to minimal ratings. Although they still have enough seats in the Parliament to maintain the
coalition, the stabilization of the new DOMiNO party and the emergence of Tomislav Jonjić in the presidential elections suggests that there will be a significant reshuffling of voters on the far-right. This means that, at the moment, nobody wants potential early parliamentary elections, and the ruling coalition with just 76 seats (one more than needed) is more than stable.
How does this situation look from a communication perspective? What kind of messages are being sent and in what way? Do they have an effect, and what kind of effect is it?
Oh, this could be discussed at length. It has been shown that the sovereignist and populist approach à la Trump by President Milanović is acceptable to the majority of citizens, and that such discourse today fares better than any traditional one. I hope he will continue with the conciliatory tone from the election night, and that over the next five years we won’t witness another “hard cohabitation” between President Milanović and Prime Minister Plenković. Unfortunately, in both the world and Croatia, elements of conspiracy theories and even fake news are entering the mainstream, and this is a trend we will clearly struggle to deal with, especially after the changes in the US.
The goal of all political campaigns is to win over the undecided while maintaining a steady base of supporters. Are there any problems in communication and message delivery, and if so, what are they? Where is the biggest communication problem, and is it with those sending the messages or with the public’s perception of these?
You’d be surprised how many politicians don’t know this, so they try to appeal to everyone. I think the biggest misconception for most politicians, an excellent example being Tomislav
Jonjić in the last presidential elections, is that they believe the media should do the campaigning for them and be more open to their appearances. They blame the very media that are allegedly closed off to them for their somewhat weaker results. With digital transformation, everything has changed, and today, if you’re serious, you have to be your own media by using social platforms from Facebook to TikTok. This requires a systematic and planned effort over time, yet our politicians prefer working only during official campaigns, even though we all know that a campaign starts the first day they take office. Those who have used digital platforms well have done better in several recent electoral cycles. Just think of Nina Skočak, the TikToker, and her excellent result in the EU elections – she showed that with a good social media campaign, you can reach young people and achieve great results.
In situations where ministers either resign or are replaced frequently, scandals involving high-ranking officials are exposed, and illegal actions come to light, crisis communication plays a crucial role in managing the public’s perception and protecting the integrity of the government. We’ve had enough of these situations to see some progress, both in terms of communication and political responsibility. Ministers have resigned in cases where they were implicated in scandals, such as providing exam questions for state tests or behaving inappropriately in public, like the most recent case of a minister who was involved in a gun incident before assuming office. This is a significant leap forward in political culture. In the past, there was often a tendency to maintain the presumption of innocence until the final court ruling, and to delay the resignation of such ministers (for example, in Milanović’s government, Deputy Prime Minister Čačić). Now, it is clear that ministers should step down as soon as there are reasonable doubts about their inappropriate actions, and we are nearing the point where political responsibility leads to their departure, which would mark a major step forward in Croatian politics. Prime Minister Plenković has learned that it’s better to replace a controversial person as soon as possible to prevent further damage to the government, especially since he is usually not directly involved in the problematic decisions. In crisis communication, it’s important to take the initiative and control the narrative, because if you don’t, someone else will take charge of it, and they may not be your ally. Creat-
HDZ IS FACING A LOT OF CHALLENGES, ESPECIALLY AT THE COUNTY LEVEL, AS THEY COULD LOSE SOME FOR THE FIRST TIME
ing an impression of transparency is vital; you need to provide enough information and present it truthfully to satisfy the public, then you control the story. If there is bad news, it’s often best to deliver it yourself, because then you control the communication framework. This can be harder to achieve when individuals are under investigation or in custody.
The role of the media in shaping public opinion is significant and crucial, but how much do the media influence the creation of crises and what is your view of their relationship with a specific conflicting party? How would you rate the neutrality and professionalism of the media?
In today’s era of hyper-fast news flow via social media, I would say that the traditional media will make a mistake if they try to compete with them, rather than positioning themselves as a place for verified news. This news don’t necessarily have to be objective, because objectivity is difficult to expect today, except for public radio and TV services in Europe, which should remain a bulwark against the tide of “suspicious” news flooding us from all sides. The media today are not the only creators of public opinion, but they still have enough influence to both create and resolve crises. The media in Croatia are free, more often leaning left on average, and are very critical of almost everything in the country. This can sometimes give the impression that the situation
Hamas conflict in Gaza. Somewhere along the way, we’ve lost the rule of relying on at least two sources before publishing news, as today it’s more important to be the first rather than to be right. This is a long-term trap for all traditional media.
In addition to traditional media, social networks are taking the lead in providing information, especially among the younger population. How and in what way can we influence content and reduce the spread of fake news and similar content, which is often unverified and inauthentic?
The million-dollar question. With the recent removal of fact-checkers on Meta platforms, we risk not having anyone to verify the truthfulness of claims made in posts on social media. I believe it’s an illusion that the community will be able to handle this on its own, as one side is always louder, and that’s usually the far-right. That’s why the role of traditional media is crucial; they must be a barrier to unverified and false news. This is a major challenge that we all must work on.
is dramatic or critical, even though many indicators suggest progress –strong economic growth, increased employment, the Euro, Schengen, and excellent tourist seasons despite COVID-19. Even these small steps toward political responsibility are often overly criticized as insufficient, even though it’s unrealistic to expect overnight changes or large reforms. In such instances, they could be more constructive and support changes (not only political ones) for the betterment of the country. We are witnessing that, due to declining revenues, media outlets are reducing the number of employees and journalists, which is starting to affect the quality of some content and editorial standards. There are significant challenges regarding where to draw the line between public and private information in cases of investigations or other situations that can be sensationalized without thinking about the longterm consequences for the people involved. This is something we often encounter in practice, because once something gets to Google, it’s hard to remove it, even though Google offers the “right to be forgotten” option. We need to find ways to help traditional media maintain a higher level of professionalism compared to others. Consider the alleged “acid” scandal with Romerquelle mineral water and its media coverage – in the end, there was no scandal. Coca Cola, the parent company, also responded slowly to the crisis that emerged on WhatsApp. Or take the coverage of the Israel-
We are approaching local elections in the spring. How do you think the campaign will look and what will be the key topics of the local elections (really local issues or national ones like corruption, America, the EU...)? What type of communication do you expect in the campaign?
In general, the level of professionalism in campaigns here has fallen, so I don’t expect much creativity. Voters are increasingly making their decisions on election day – even one in every six voters in the last parliamentary elections – so it’s important to bring them to the polling stations, and that’s what election campaigns are for. I mentioned a kind of red wave that is being felt in Croatia, and that could affect the results of the second rounds in many places where the entire opposition could unite against HDZ candidates. HDZ is facing a lot of challenges, especially at the county level, as they could lose some for the first time. In some areas, candidates have not yet been announced, and we are less than three months away from the elections. I recommend that your readers watch Špica s Macanom on this topic, where we have thoroughly analysed the situation in all counties and major cities. We are somehow of the opinion that there won’t be major upheavals in the first four cities (Zagreb, Split, Rijeka, and Osijek), but there are enough open positions across Croatia where May 18th could surprise us.
Modern education with practical approach is best for students
We focus on practical, real-world applications and close collaboration with industry leaders
MORANA ERDELJA
International student enrollment coordinator at the international relations office of Algebra Bernays University
At Algebra Bernays University, we take a modern and interdisciplinary approach to education, combining technology, creativity, entrepreneurship, and communication, for Diplomacy&Commerce says Morana Erdelja, International student enrollment coordinator at the international relations office of Algebra Bernays University. Unlike traditional universities, we focus on practical, realworld applications and close collaboration with industry leaders.
You describe yourself as not being a typical University. How does Algebra Bernays University differ from other similar higher education institutions and what sets you apart?
Our programs are designed to equip students with the skills needed for today’s dynamic job market, ensuring that they are not only academically prepared but also highly employable. The strong emphasis on innovation, digital transformation, and international partnerships truly sets us apart.
You are known, among other things, for combining creativity, entrepreneurship, communications and technology. One of your target groups is foreign students. What programs do you offer for them?
We offer a range of undergraduate and graduate programs tailored to international students, including digital marketing, data science, software engineering, and business management. Our programs are taught in English and provide a hands-on learning experience, ensuring students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical expertise. Additionally, we offer exchange programs through Erasmus+ and other international cooperation initiatives,
WE OFFER EXCHANGE PROGRAMS THROUGH ERASMUS+ AND OTHER INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION INITIATIVES, ALLOWING STUDENTS TO EXPERIENCE A TRULY GLOBAL EDUCATION
allowing students to experience a truly global education. Apart from that, some of our undergraduate study programs are offered with an option to receive a dual degree both from Algebra Bernays University and Goldsmiths, University of London.
Can you explain the procedures and process for foreign students to come to you and where do they all come from?
International students can apply through our online application system, where they submit their academic records, proof of English proficiency, and other necessary documents. Once accepted, we assist them with visa and temporary residence permit applications, accommodation, and integration into student life and life in Croatia overall. Our students come from various parts of Europe, Canada, USA, Latin America, Africa, Asia, and beyond, creating a diverse and vibrant aca-
demic community. Our dedicated International Office supports them throughout the process, ensuring a smooth transition to studying and living in Croatia.
By coming to study, they have certain rights but also obligations. Can you tell us what benefits you, as Algebra Bernays, offer to students?
We offer a range of benefits to our students, including personalized mentorship, career counseling, access to cutting-edge technology, and networking opportunities with leading companies. Additionally, students can participate in internships, international exchange programs, and various extracurricular activities that enhance their learning experience. We also emphasize student well-being, providing psychological support and academic advising to ensure their success both in and out of the classroom.
In addition to students, the quality and credibility of education are also provided by the teaching staff, professors. How important is the selection of qualified staff, and how would you rate their work, especially in imparting knowledge and life stories? How important do you think the professor-student relationship is?
Our faculty consists of highly qualified professionals with both academic expertise and industry experience. We believe that professors should not only teach theoretical concepts but also share real-world insights, inspiring students with their own career journeys. The professor-student relationship is essential in fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment. At Algebra Bernays, we encourage open communication, mentorship, and collaboration between faculty and students, ensuring that learning goes beyond textbooks and into reallife applications.
How would you rate the level of higher education in Croatia in general, and is there anything you would change or praise? What do you see as the biggest challenges in education that await us in the future?
Higher education in Croatia has made significant progress in aligning with European and global standards, particularly through initiatives like the Bologna Process. However, there is still room for improvement, especially in integrating more practical, industry-oriented learning experiences and fostering stronger international cooperation. One of the biggest challenges we face in education is keeping up with the rapid pace of technological advancements and ensuring that students develop skills that are relevant for future job markets. At Algebra Bernays, we aim to address these challenges by continuously updating our curricula, our equipment, embracing digital transformation, and preparing students for the careers of tomorrow.
The new high school in Zagreb
The new high school is centrally located in Zagreb at Ulica Augusta Harambašića 19
n 2024, Bright Horizons International British School expanded its offerings by introducing a high school program. This expansion aims to provide high-quality international education at the secondary level, continuing the school’s commitment to academic excellence.
I
IBSZ Bright Horizons as a member of COBIS, also became Cambridge recognised school and is offering one of the most recognised curriculum in the world.
Additionally, Bright Horizons was a finalist in the “Wellbeing” category organized by TES, highlighting its focus on student well-being. This school year, high school students had the fantastic opportunity to attend Plismun, COBIS schools debate competition, where they learnt the art of diplomacy, negotiation, and conflict resolution as well as practising their debate and public speaking skills. Model Unated Nations is more than just a competition: it allows young people to enhance their academic record and develop confidence, critical thinking, and global awareness.
THE QUALIFICATIONS ARE PARTICULARLY BENEFICIAL FOR STUDENTS WISHING TO APPLY TO UNIVERSITIES IN THE UK AND ABROAD, AS THEY ARE RECOGNIZED BY MAJOR GLOBAL UNIVERSITIES
During the schooling at Bright Horizons International British School students have a chance to pass IGCSEs and A Levels. Both examinations have a long history of
academic excellence and are recognized as some of the most rigorous and comprehensive qualifications available. Many prestigious universities, especially in the UK,
the US, and other countries, value these qualifications highly.
A Levels are considered an advanced form of secondary education and are designed to prepare students for higher education or employment. A-Levels are subjectbased qualifications, allowing students to specialise in specific academic areas. A Levels are designed to prepare students for university-level education. The exam system, which focuses on in-depth understanding and analysis, aligns well with the academic demands of higher education.
Both exams are known for their thorough assessment, which includes not only final exams but also coursework and practical work in some subjects. This ensures a well-rounded evaluation of students’ abilities. The grading system and examination processes are considered reliable and fair, which enhances the credibility of the qualifications.
The IGCSE and A Level programs have been adapted for international schools and are taught in many countries worldwide. The curriculum is designed to be relevant and accessible in a wide range of cultural and educational settings, making it appealing to international student
British education has a longstanding tradition of excellence, and both IGCSEs and A Levels are part of this legacy. The UK’s educational system has historically influenced other nations, and its qualifications are respected globally. Many of the world’s leading schools and universities follow or recognize the British curriculum, further contributing to its prestige.
Employers around the world recognize the value of IGCSEs and A Levels because they are seen as a strong foundation for higher education and careers. Students with these qualifications often have an advantage in competitive job markets.
These factors combine to make the British IGCSE and A Level system a popular and highly regarded educational route for students seeking strong academic foundations and international opportunities. British schools tend to emphasize independent learning, critical thinking, and problemsolving skills, which are valuable in both higher education and the workforce. These schools typically attract an international mindset student body, which provides students with a diverse and enriching cultural experience which prepares the for the future.
CENTER FOR LIFELONG LEARNING AT LIBERTAS INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY
Understanding Negotiation Styles
This article explores four negotiation styles based on three critical dimensions: goal orientation, communication style, and flexibility
By understanding these elements, negotiators can refine their approach to secure favorable outcomes consistentlyensuring successful deals while maintaining integrity, strengthening relationships, and enhancing their reputation.
DEFINING NEGOTIATION STYLES: THE THREE DIMENSIONS
Rather than rigidly classifying negotiators into fixed categories, a more effective approach is to assess their negotiation tendencies through three fundamental dimensions:
1. Goal Orientation – The degree to which a negotiator is focused on achieving a concrete result. A strong goal orientation signifies a results-driven approach, while a lower orientation suggests a greater willingness to compromise or adapt.
2. Communication Style – Some negotiators rely on logic and data-driven arguments, while others prioritize emotional and intuitive persuasion.
3. Flexibility – The extent to which a negotiator can adapt their approach based on circumstances and the behavior of their counterpart.
These dimensions help identify four primary negotiation profiles. Importantly, no negotiator is confined to just one category - every individual exhibits a blend of these traits in varying degrees.
1THE STRATEGIST
Goal Orientation: High
Communication Style: Rational Flexibility: High
Strategists meticulously plan negotiations, carefully analyzing potential outcomes and structuring their approach to achieve long-term success. Their strength lies in their ability to adapt while maintaining a clear vision of the bigger picture. They rely on data, structured reasoning, and logical arguments rather than emotions to drive negotiations forward.
How to Negotiate with a Strategist:
4. Prepare well-structured, fact-based arguments to align with their analytical approach.
5. Expect a methodical and thorough negotiation process
6. Clearly outline objectives while remaining open to rational compromises that align with shared interests.
2
THE TACTICAL
Goal Orientation: Moderate Communication Style: Emotional Flexibility: High
Tacticians view negotiation as a means of fostering strong interpersonal relationships. Their belief is that a successful negotiation not only secures an immediate deal but also strengthens long-term cooperation. They thrive on empathy, adaptability, and open dialogue, using communication as their primary tool for persuasion.
How to Negotiate with a Tactician: 7. Invest time in relationship-building before discussing substantive terms.
8. Use open-ended questions to create an engaging and cooperative dialogue.
9. Be mindful of their tendency to overpromise.
3
THE COMPETITOR
Goal Orientation: High Communication Style: Emotional Flexibility: Low
Competitors view negotiations as a contest where their primary objective is to win. Their approach is often assertive - sometimes bordering on aggressive - as they employ pressure and dominance tactics to secure an advantage. While effective in high-stakes, fast-paced negotiations, this style can strain relationships and diminish trust over time.
How to Negotiate with a Competitor: 10. Maintain professionalism and avoid being drawn into emotional confrontations.
11. Establish clear boundaries and resist undue pressure.
12. Stay composed and use logical arguments to neutralize aggressive tactics.
4THE ANALYST
Goal Orientation: Moderate Communication Style: Rational Flexibility: Moderate Analysts approach negotiations with a methodical and fact-based mindset. They focus on meticulous preparation, evaluating data, and minimizing risks before committing to a decision. Their structured approach ensures objectivity, though it may slow down the negotiation process. Analysts are often perceived as reserved or detached, but this is typically a reflection of their preference for careful deliberation rather than emotional engagement.
How to Negotiate with an Analyst:
13. Present clear, well-documented facts and figures to support your position.
14.Allow them sufficient time to analyze information—do not rush decisions.
15. Avoid ambiguous or overly emotional arguments; stick to structured, logic-based communication.
Recognizing different negotiation styles allows professionals to adjust their approach effectively, increasing the likelihood of a favorable outcome. However, beyond understanding others, successful negotiators must also recognize their own natural tendencies and develop the ability to switch between styles when necessary.
At its highest level, negotiation is not just about securing favorable deals - it is about mastering the interplay between logic, psychology, and strategy. The most accomplished negotiators can take what seems like a hopeless situation and completely turn it around through skillful maneuvering, demonstrating not only expertise but a deep understanding of human behavior and decision-making.
This topic is related to the professional education programs offered by the Center for Lifelong Learning at Libertas International University. As part of a special collaboration with Diplomacy & Commerce magazine, readers can access an exclusive registration fee for these programs using the promo code #D&C2025.
Goran Milaković, univ.mag.rel.int.
THE PRESIDENT MILANOVIĆ RECEIVED THE CREDENTIALS OF THE AMBASSADOR OF THE REPUBLIC OF KAZAKHSTAN
H. E. Daulet Batrashev, Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Republic of Croatia, with residence in Zagreb, presented his credentials to the President of the Republic of Croatia Zoran Milanović. Accompanying the Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Republic of Croatia was the Consul in the Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan Alibi Zhenzakov.Alongside President Milanović were the Adviser to the President of the Republic for Foreign and European Policy Neven Pelicarić, the Director-General of the Directorate-General for Economic Affairs and Development Cooperation Irena Alajbeg and the Adviser in the Cabinet for Foreign and European Policy in the Office of the President of the Republic Božana Kelić.
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Protocol in Practice
In business, diplomatic, and international settings, understanding protocol rules is essential for successful communication, presentations, event management, and the execution of protocol-related events. This program offers concrete tools and skills for effectively managing protocol regulations in various situations - from business events to formal state, political, and international gatherings.
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Office of the President of the Republic of Croatia / Marko Beljan
Museums are or can be hubs for
bringing the community together around important topics and events
It is essential for society to recognize culture as significant, and this should also be reflected in funding. Otherwise, it remains merely declarative and unconvincing for anyone within the system
MARKITA FRANULIĆ
Director of the Nikola Tesla Technical Museum
The Nikola Tesla Technical Museum is the most visited museum in Zagreb and at the very top in Croatia regarding the number of visits. It is also unique due to its location, as the complex is listed in the Register of Cultural Property. In an interview with Diplomacy & Commerce, Markita Franulić, Director of the Nikola Tesla Technical Museum, discusses the museum’s plans, its facility and maintenance, new trends, and the programs they are developing for visitors.
The Nikola Tesla Technical Museum celebrated its 70th anniversary last year. Where
does the mMuseum stand today compared to your vision when you took over as director? What are you most proud of?
I believe we have made significant progress in our program activities, which are now more numerous and diverse than before, covering a
technology within the museum’s exhibitions. We have established collaborations with companies, NGOs, DIY culture associations, and artists. I am particularly proud of the exhibitions and programs that connect science, technology, and art through high-quality artis-
WE ALSO SHOWCASED CROATIA’S FIRST SATELLITE, CROCUBE
range of topics related to technical cultural heritage as well as current issues. We place the themes we present in a broader social and even political context, and we have addressed gender equality in the presentation of science and
tic interpretations. We have renovated parts of our permanent exhibition, and this process continues. Some areas of the museum have also been restored, but we still lack the financial resources needed for a comprehensive renovation,
modernization, and the ability to present a broader scope of our collection and important topics that we currently cannot showcase due to infrastructural and funding limitations.
During my tenure, the Museum was officially named after Nikola Tesla, opening up a wide range of new programmatic and communication opportunities. A new visual identity has been developed and is gradually being implemented across all areas of our operations.
We have also focused on increasing our presence and visibility within the community. We became more active on social media and strengthened our public relations efforts. As a result, we have seen a significant increase in visitor numbers.
For years, you have been the most visited museum in Zagreb and among the top in Croatia. What would you highlight from your permanent exhibition, and what can visitors expect this year?
The museum has traditionally had a high number of visitors, but it was necessary to work on audience development, expand themes, and introduce new approaches. In recent years, we have attracted a new audience and increased visitor numbers, with a noticeable rise in international visitors. This year as well, we will continue to offer various educational programs for children, including workshops on electricity and inventors, animation workshops, and engaging programs related to our museum’s beehives. We will also have activities on meteorology and climate, the Science Festival focusing on “Networks,” Space Week, lectures on transportation, etc. In terms of exhibitions, we will feature displays on NFTs, household appliances from the domestic Rade Končar industry, and a retrospective on Tomislav Mikulić, a pioneer of digital art and media in Croatia.
From our permanent exhibition, the always fascinating Nikola Tesla Cabinet, featuring demonstrations of Tesla’s inventions, and the 300-meter-long underground mine remain major attractions. We are also opening a new exhibition on communications, a renewed steam engine display, and updates in our transportation section, starting with ship models. Since last year, visitors can see some of our machines in motion, and we are continuing to expand this feature.
In addition to the permanent exhibition, your museum is known for high-quality exhibitions, special collections, and educational programs. How important is it for a museum to focus on all these aspects, and how do you track audience reactions?
We closely monitor visitor interests, which is why last year we hosted an exhibition on AI, and this year we will present one dedicated to NFTs. We are open to various collaborations because our museum covers a wide range of topics. We also showcased Croatia’s first satellite, CroCube. I believe that, for a museum like ours, which caters to all visitor profiles and generations, it is essential to have a diverse program that meets different interests. At the same time, some of our programs tackle important topics and raise critical questions, even controversial ones. These programs may not always attract a broad audience, but it is important to conduct them. Visitor numbers, comments on social media, and feedback in our guestbook provide insights into audience reactions. However, we don’t shape our entire program solely based on these responses—they serve as a corrective to some of our ideas.
Another interesting thing is the very building of the Nikola Tesla Technical Museum. Namely, the complex was built in 1949 as a temporary solution, after the tram terminal was demolished on that site. In 2005, the complex was listed in the Register of Cultural Property. How do you comment on the fact that these buildings, originally intended as temporary, became a protected cultural monument?
The Technical Museum complex was built in 1949 according to the design of architect Marijan Haberle. It was constructed in just three months as a temporary structure
WE PLACE THE THEMES WE PRESENT IN A BROADER SOCIAL AND EVEN POLITICAL CONTEXT, AND WE HAVE ADDRESSED GENDER EQUALITY IN THE PRESENTATION OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY WITHIN THE MUSEUM’S EXHIBITIONS
after the demolition of a tram terminal with the administrative building of Zagreb Electric Tram, warehouse and workshops. The covert was moved to another part of the city, where it stands today. The Technical Museum was established in 1954, and already next year the city government granted the Museum’s request for land and buildings of the Zagreb Fair in the Savska area, and the surrounding plots. According to the 1955 design by Marijan Haberle, a City of Technology was supposed to be built on that site, in which the Museum would be part of a large complex with buildings for education, research institutes, workshops, museum exhibition halls, depots, administration, etc.
The Fair moved to a new location in 1956, and in 1959, the Museum gained ownership of the western Fair complex, where it is still located today, as well as the parcel stretching north to the railway tracks, with the buildings located on it. Even 70 years ago, the existing
While housing a facility that is a cultural heritage and an important monument of wooden architecture is a certain privilege, it significantly complicates our work because many interventions in the space are impossible, and we must seek approval from conservators for everything. The buildings also do not meet today’s comfort standards for visitors and employees, nor do they meet energy efficiency criteria, and it is not possible to adapt them to the extent required by modern times.
How important do you think museums are as institutions in today’s age of social media, superficiality, and misinformation, and how do you see the future of museums? Do you think there is an advantage in focusing on technical topics compared to other themes (such as virtual museums)?
complex did not have enough space to house museum objects, and over the years, several expansions or even a move to other locations have been planned and designed. However, due to insufficient financial support, the plans remained unrealized. This has remained the case until today. The complex was listed in the Register of Cultural Property in 2005. Thus, the buildings originally intended as temporary became a protected cultural monument, something we now preserve, which poses a significant challenge because the materials they were constructed with have deteriorated and are sensitive, and they lack appropriate infrastructure. Haberle himself had planned to demolish these halls in 1975 and build new ones using durable materials.
How difficult is it to maintain such a complex in today’s times, and what is the responsibility, given its significance for the whole Croatian society?
In addition to preserving heritage for the future and for generations to come, and organizing numerous expert and popular programs, museums play an important role in the community or city they operate in through their publishing activities and many other functions. Museums are or can be hubs for gathering the community around important topics and events. Citizens see museums as reliable sources of information and knowledge. In an uncertain world, museums are still safe places, physically speaking. I believe that direct contact with objects, as well as the experience of our museum space, is important for our visitors, and this cannot be replaced by virtual experiences. In our workshops, people work with their hands, which is crucial for children’s development and for overall personal growth. Undoubtedly, museums are important, and examples in Croatia and worldwide show that more and more of them are being opened.
CROATIAN CHAMBER OF ECONOMY
Sljeme Motel To Become Rivia Arts & Culture Hotel
The reconstruction and renovation project of the former Sljeme Motel, an architectural cultural heritage site designed by one of Croatia’s most renowned architects, Ivan Vitić, has begun. The motel is located in the Preluka area near Rijeka
The new hotel, scheduled to open by the end of 2026, will have a four-star rating and will be named the Rivia Arts & Culture Hotel. The total investment amounts to 18 million euros, with the investor being HGK Hoteli, a company founded by the Croatian Chamber of Economy.
The revitalization of Vitić’s building, constructed in 1965 and now classified as an immovable cultural asset by the Ministry of Culture and Media, will be carried out according to the highest professional standards. The conceptual design for the future Rivia Arts & Culture Hotel has been entrusted to the architectural firm Mataija x Sipina x Turato, led by Rijekabased architect Idis Turato and architect Maroje Mrduljaš, who emphasize their commitment to honouring Vitić’s vision and modernist legacy in the construction of this building.
“One of our key goals is to position the Rivia Arts & Culture Hotel as a model example of how the revitalization of cultural heritage can create long-term economic value and an authentic product. By investing in the renovation of the old Sljeme motel, we are also creating a platform that will bring together local expertise and products. From architecture and design to program solutions and food and beverage offerings, we aim to prioritize the products and services of our members, as well as all Croatian companies and entrepreneurs. It was precisely the Croatian Chamber of Economy (HGK) that laid the foundations for the systematic promotion and appreciation of domestic production more than
THE PROJECT RECEIVED THE 2024 ZAGREB SALON OF ARCHITECTURE AND URBANISM GRAND PRIX DURING ITS DEVELOPMENT PHASE.
25 years ago, with the “Buy Croatian” initiative while simultaneously educating new generations of consumers. We have continuously encouraged and highlighted the importance of local production and the strength of Croatian brands. With the Rivia Arts & Culture Hotel project, we are taking this effort a step further by creating a model example—a kind of showroom where visitors can experience the very best of Croatia,” emphasizes Luka Burilović, President of the Croatian Chamber of Economy. At the beginning of last year, HGK launched the Stories - Experience Premium Croatia platform to promote and develop premium tourism in Croatia, which now includes over 100 members. “Authentic experiences and high-quality, diverse offerings will be embedded in the core of the Rivia Arts & Culture Hotel’s operations. Therefore, I believe that once our hotel opens, it will meet the membership criteria for the Stories platform,” Burilović concludes.
“At full capacity, the Rivia Arts & Culture Hotel will employ approximately 40 people. We have already initiated communication with educational institutions in Rijeka and the surrounding area, including both high schools and universities, to develop collaborations aimed at training and employing tourism professionals. Our goal is to establish a strong connection with the local community while ensuring the highest level of service quality at the hotel. Moreover, this commercial project is of strategic importance for the Croatian Chamber of Economy (HGK) as it represents a key step in activating previously unused assets. The project enables the optimal use of resources while laying the foundation for long-term profitability and sustainable revenue growth. In doing so, HGK further reaffirms its commitment to strengthening financial stability and self-sustainability,” emphasized Tomislav Radoš, Director of HGK Hoteli.
“In addition to improving accommodation capacity, we plan to introduce modern amenities that meet the high standards of the hospitality industry while preserving the aesthetic and historical elements of the original design,” architect Idis Turato noted.
The project presentation was also supported by Tomislav Petrinc, Director of the Directorate for the Protection of Cultural Heritage at the Ministry of Culture and Media, who stated that this type of cultural heritage, created during the modernist era, presents a professional challenge in terms of its functional adaptation and future use.
The Rivia Arts & Culture Hotel will feature 57 accommodation units, including six standalone units designed as apartments. A unique aspect of the hotel’s offering is its conceptual division into a “retro” section, where guests can experience the ambiance and room design of the 1960s and 1970s, and “contemporary” rooms that bring a fresh modernist experience into the present day, with advanced technology as a central element. The hotel will also introduce a unique immersive wellness concept, offering unforgettable sensory experiences by blending the scenic beauty of Croatia with high-tech multimedia solutions and virtual reality.
DEFENDER OCTA
The most powerful Defender OCTA ever arrived in Croatia
The toughest, most capable and most luxurious model in the history of the British adventure brand Defender – the magnificent Defender OCTA, created by Land Rover
The inspiration for the model came from the most valued, most desirable and toughest mineral on earth – a diamond octahedral in shape. Just like the diamond, the Defender OCTA embodies indestructibility, precision, and top-tier performance. Every design line, every detail in this vehicle reflects the same philosophy—durability and elegance that transcend time.
• The OCTA model is the most extreme and the toughest Defender ever, inspired by the hardness of a diamond
• Each model features a new rounded diamond graphic.
• With 635 HP and up to 750 Nm of torque, the Defender OCTA accelerates from 0-100 km/h in just 4.0 seconds.
• The new 6D Dynamics air suspension intelligently adapts to driving style, with hydraulically interconnected dampers and height-adjustable air springs.
• The all-new OCTA mode—the first performancefocused off-road mode in a Defender—unleashes full off-road power.
• Innovative Body and Soul Seat audio technology, allowing drivers to feel the music, debuts in this model.
• In addition to increased height and width, the toughest Defender ever built also boasts the largest tires ever fitted to this model, measuring 838 mm in diameter.
With over seven decades of history, this automotive icon has remained deeply embedded in the collective consciousness of car enthusiasts and pop culture fans worldwide. Thanks to its distinctive silhouette and reputation for durability, the iconic off-roader has frequently appeared on both the big and small screens—from shows like Top Gear and mega-popular series such as The Crown to spectacular chase scenes in several James Bond films. It was even driven by adventurer Lara Croft, further emphasizing its explorative spirit. The Defender has also graced numerous music videos by global stars such as Beyoncé and Jay-Z, Drake, and The Weeknd. Its allure is further validated by the fact that icons like Prince William, Paul McCartney, and the Beckham family have Defender models parked in their garages, reinforcing its status as a symbol of luxury and prestige. The model even inspired renowned local chef Damir Tomljanović to prepare delicacies inspired by the power of the Defender OCTA. A spectacular live cooking show by the campfire in front of Peti Kupe thrilled attendees, as one of the most famous domestic chefs masterfully combined premium local ingredients with authentic
preparation techniques. The culinary experience was completed by Bisou Bisou desserts—masterpieces by the talented Marina Levak—whose colours and flavours reflected the main star of the evening. It was a sweet tale of luxury, precision, and ultimate enjoyment, much like the Defender OCTA itself.
As a symbol of freedom since its first appearance in 1948, Defender supports humanitarian work in collaboration with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. Ultimately, Defender ranks among the most enduring and influential automotive series in history. Today, it enters a new era, preserving its authenticity and adaptability while pushing boundaries with cutting-edge design.
DEFENDER OCTA – THE ART OF PERFECTION FOR THOSE WHO LOVE TO EXPLORE FREELY
Powered by a 4.4-liter Twin Turbo mild-hybrid V8 engine with 635 HP, the OCTA model is the most extreme and powerful Defender ever, delivering top-tier performance on any terrain. From rugged mountains to calm city streets, this vehicle stays ahead of the game—even when navigating water depths of up to one meter. Having undergone the most extreme durability tests, along with an additional 13,960 specially designed experiments, the new Defender OCTA has officially become the most dynamically complete Defender ever created.
Both on and off the road, this automotive giant makes a statement in every detail, inside and out. Defender’s strong connection to music is further emphasized by the innovative Body and Soul Seat audio technology, making its debut in this model. Developed in collaboration with music experts from SUBPAC and Coventry University, this technology allows both the driver and passenger not just to hear but to feel the music.
With the official arrival of the Defender OCTA in Croatia, it’s time to take your adventures to the next level. It’s time for the Defender OCTA—a symbol of innovation, power, luxury, and limitless possibilities. Discover the full story and technical details of this exciting model on the official Defender website.
PRESIDENT MILANOVIĆ TOOK THE CEREMONIAL OATH FOR HIS SECOND FIVE-YEAR TERM AS PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF CROATIA
February 18, 2025
The President of the Republic of Croatia, Zoran Milanović, took the oath of office today for his second five-year term as President of the Republic of Croatia. At the inauguration ceremony held in the Office of the President of the Republic, President Milanović took the oath before the President and the judges of the Constitutional Court.
“I swear on my honor that I will perform the duty of President of the Republic of Croatia conscientiously and responsibly, for the benefit of the Croatian people and all Croatian citizens. As the Croatian head of state, I will adhere to the Constitution and the law, ensure respect for the constitutional and legal order of the Republic of Croatia, watch over the orderly and just operation of all state authorities, and safeguard the independence, survival and unity of the state of Croatia. So help me God,” said President Milanović and then signed the Oath of Office.
At the beginning of the ceremony, President Milanović inspected the ceremonial procession of the Honorary and Protective Colors, and then, together with his wife Sanja Musić Milanović, he entered the Ceremonial Hall, which was attended by 112 guests. Among the guests were former Presidents of the Republic Stjepan Mesić, Ivo Josipović and Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović, four Vice Presidents of the Croatian Parliament, the Commanders of the Croatian Armed Forces led by the Chief of the General Staff of the Croatian Armed Forces General Tihomir Kundida, heads of security and intelligence agencies, representatives of religious communities, the Apostolic Nuncio to the Republic of Croatia, the President of the Croatian Academy of Sciences and Arts, the President of the Croatian Chamber of Commerce, the President of the Croatian National Council, the President of the Croatian National Federation, the presidents of the parties that supported President Milanović in the campaign, members of the team that led the election campaign, officials of the Office of the President of the Republic, generals from the Homeland War, and members of the President’s family and friends.
During the inauguration ceremony, the Sinjska Klapa performed the song “Cetina”, the Trogir Klapa performed the “Bodulska Balada”, Chriztel Renae Aceveda performed the song “Dej mi, Bože, oči sokolove”, and the LADO Ensemble performed fragments from “Slavonska kraljica” and the song “Cviće moje”.
PHOTO Office of the President of the Republic of Croatia, Tomislav
Bušljeta, Filip Glas, Dario Andrišek, Marko Beljan
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I am proud of Montenegrin film
Acting has always been my first love
MOMČILO OTAŠEVIĆ
Actor
One of the most well-known Montenegrin and regional actors, Momčilo Otašević, has built his career on talent, dedication, and a love for acting. His journey takes him from Rome to Cetinje, navigating through political science, architecture, law, and tourism, before ultimately dedicating himself to his first love – acting. Currently living and working between Zagreb and Cetinje, he balances film and theater engagements across the region. In this interview with our magazine, Momčilo reveals details about his professional journey, the challenges in Montenegro’s film industry, the importance of culture in social life, and his latest project, the film “Black Trumpet”, which has brought him particular fulfillment. He proudly speaks of Montenegrin cinema, the need for greater investment in culture, and the regional co-productions that truly connect people from the former Yugoslavia. Through his work, talent, and commitment, Momčilo has become an essential figure on the regional scene and a genuine advocate for the importance of culture and the arts in society.
Momčilo, before becoming a professional actor, you had very broad and amusing interests when it came to choosing a profession. At 18, you went to Rome to study political science and architecture. You also enrolled in Faculty of Law in Podgorica and tourism at a private university in Corfu. What influenced acting to ultimately prevail?
That’s right! Acting has always been my first love! However, the year I finished high school, there was no open call for new students at the Faculty of Dramatic Arts in Cetinje. So, at 18, I went to Rome with my friend Jovana Jovićević. She enrolled in political science and diplomacy at Sapienza University. I didn’t manage to do the same, even though, as a kid, diplomacy sounded interesting to me. I thought being an ambassador would be cool! However, I didn’t even get to the entrance exam for that faculty because I failed the Italian language test! My parents couldn’t believe it when I told them that. At the same time, I was accepted to the Faculty of Law in Podgorica and a private university in Corfu, where I en-
I KNOW THAT CULTURE IS AN AREA WHERE EVERY CENT IS WORTH INVESTING. WISE NATIONS AND PEOPLE HAVE BEEN DOING THAT FOR CENTURIES
rolled in tourism. Still, I told my parents that I didn’t want to pursue any of those options. I told them I wanted to stay in Rome until the next admission period and think about my future. Meanwhile, many of my friends from Montenegro enrolled in architecture, and since that field had always interested me, I started attending lectures with them, even though I wasn’t officially a student! During this time, I delivered newspapers, worked as a bartender or a dog walker... Naturally, I became the main organizer of parties for students from the former Yugoslavia! In the next admission cycle, I applied for architecture and passed the Italian language test! Since I had two months before the next round of exams,
I returned home to Cetinje. Upon returning, I ran into Ana Vučković, a longtime friend and now a colleague. When I told her I was going to study architecture, she simply said, “Come on, stop kidding!” She went into her house and came back with the book “Audition – Everything about the Entrance Exam” by Bora Stjepanović. She said, “Prepare two monologues and a song! The entrance exam for the Faculty of Dramatic Arts is in seven days!” I shared this news with my parents and decided to take the entrance exam. The day I stepped onto the stage, the feeling I had when I used to act in amateur plays came rushing back – I forgot about the world, time, place, air... For those 15 minutes, I just acted, enjoying every second, and felt
on top of the world! I’m not exaggerating when I say that feeling was similar to seeing your child for the first time. On that stage, I realized I had been avoiding something I shouldn’t have. And I passed the preliminary round at the Faculty of Dramatic Arts! Afterward, in August, I returned to Rome to take the final part of the entrance exam for architecture. The exam lasted five hours. After three hours, I left, packed my bags quickly, and headed back. The final selection for the Faculty of Dramatic Arts was already underway. Even though I was exhausted from the trip, the moment I stepped onto the stage, that beautiful feeling I had longed for returned. I still remember that Monday when the late professor Sanja Garić read my name from the list of accepted students. My happiness knew no bounds, even though I had also been accepted into architecture just a few days earlier. My parents were thrilled as well, despite the fact that I had chosen Cetinje over Rome! So, in the end, acting won out over all the other choices. Simply put, it was the path meant for me, and I’m still happy I chose it to this day!
Today, you are one of the most popular Montenegrin and regional actors. Across the former Yugoslav territories, you are equally engaged in films, TV series, and theater. How would you comment on the theater and film scene in Montenegro? And how do you assess regional cooperation?
First of all, I’ve always been proud to have studied in my hometown, in Cetinje. I’m equally proud of the numerous projects I’ve worked on in my country, considering the size of Montenegro, its population, and the scale of its productions. Speaking of the theater and film scene in Montenegro, I believe that, on an individual level, we are operating at a very high artistic level. There’s no lack of talent, intelligence, or willpower to succeed here! That said, in my opinion, there are never enough plays and never enough films! Montenegro is not lagging behind anyone, and we don’t need to bow to anyone. However, we need to value ourselves a little more than we currently do. Fortunately, considering the recent history of the former Yugoslav states, things are changing, and regional cooperation is quite strong. In recent years, there have been wonderful co-productions in
the region, and I think that’s fantastic! Even better things are yet to come, as we all share the same language, which will lead to even more co-productions. The blending of cultures and peoples in this way is an excellent path to bring our nations closer again. That’s why I see artists from this region as peacemakers. Here, I’ll step back a bit, because I don’t consider myself an artist, at least not until I die. For now, I’m just a craftsman. I don’t like to preach or criticize too much, as I still consider myself too young for that. However, in Montenegro, we’ve had the same systemic issue for decades. I’m not involved in politics, nor do I follow it closely, but it’s a fact that the budget allocated for culture is shockingly low! I appeal for this to change if the decisionmakers in Montenegro want us to have any presence on the artistic map! For comparison, an average film in Croatia, through the Croatian Audiovisual Centre (HAVC), gets around 500,000 euros. Meanwhile, in Montenegro, the average budget for a film is 100,000 euros. Given that, I almost feel like saying we’re better than everyone else because we make competitive films with incredibly low budgets! Even though that sounds terrifying in a way, I’ll still, as we say, “go all out” for Montenegrin cinema whenever necessary, and to the end! It’s high time we face the truth and restore culture to its rightful place at the top.
Artists also have their diplomatic mission. How do you see Montenegro’s current position in the world through the lens of culture and the arts? Do you think that your work and the work of your colleagues can contribute to greater recognition of Montenegro’s cultural and artistic heritage on a global level? Our work is already contributing significantly to the recognition of Montenegro’s cultural and artistic heritage. Many generations of Montenegrin artists have contributed to this in the past, and that must continue in the future! I’m confident that, through the lens of culture and the arts, Montenegro has the quality to offer Europe and the world. I wouldn’t be doing this job if I didn’t believe that. I will do my best to help with all my knowledge and skill! Even though we are a small system, we are rich in content. Unfortunately, we must again return to the financial resources allocated for culture. As I mentioned, we create quite decent projects with much smaller funds compared to other countries in the region. With more resources, our work would be even better. Everything costs! In the end, the least expensive part is the actors’ work. Despite this, I firmly claim that everyone will “go all out” to create the best and highest quality Montenegrin film possible! I know that culture is an area where every cent is worth investing. Wise nations and people have been doing
AN AVERAGE FILM IN CROATIA, THROUGH THE HAVC, GETS AROUND 500,000 EUROS. IN MONTENEGRO, THE AVERAGE BUDGET FOR A FILM IS 100,000 EUROS
that for centuries! It’s our job, as actors, to work. There’s nothing controversial about that. The job of decision-makers is to create an environment where our work will have an even greater impact on a larger scale. Believe me, it will pay off for everyone many times over.
It’s clear that culture is a focal point of your interest, and you place it in a “sacred category.” Why does culture impress you so much? Can we bring more culture into the general social environment?
Culture is incredibly important! And I’m not just talking about my profession. I mean the basics: not throwing a can out of your car window, helping an elderly lady cross the street at a pedestrian crossing, not overtaking another vehicle on a solid line, and many other everyday things. These are the basic elements we need to start with before we can even talk about theater or film. As a boy, I remember the biennale that took place in Cetinje, at a time when I was just discovering my love for art. I remember my mother taking me from one palace or park to another whenever there was a cultural or artistic event. The world was in Cetinje! Even more than 100 years ago! We had an ice rink here, tennis courts, and the first woman in the Balkans to drive a car. After all, the first books in the South Slavic region were printed here. I’ll also mention the series “Budva on the
the nature of this place deserves to have! When we think about how few of us there are, yet how successful we are in various fields, it’s almost a shame that we aren’t legends in Europe! I believe we can be!
The latest project you worked on is the feature film “Black Trumpet”, in which you play the lead role. The film was produced by the company “CutUp” Ltd. from Podgorica and was filmed over 20 days in locations in Grahovo and the surrounding area. Can you share some impressions from the set?
Foam of the Sea”, no matter what people think of it. I believe that series was a phenomenal postcard of Montenegro, which hadn’t been seen since the brilliant works of Živko Nikolić. Even I, watching those extraordinary shots from all over Montenegro in the series, thought, “Man… do we really have all of this?” I’ll also remind you of the project to turn the former “Obod” printing house into a film city. It’s sad that the project wasn’t realized. Imagine being able to tell any internationally renowned production that we have four seasons clearly defined. As a result, you have various colours, important for a cinematographer, that occur during those four seasons. Then there’s the capital, Cetinje, just 15 to 30 minutes away from the sea, mountains, lakes, rivers, plains, Lovćen and Skadar Lake National Parks. Snow, heat, fog, and countless other weather conditions! In our profession, these are incredible resources! Time is everything in this business! For filming, it’s a huge advantage when you have a visually important location nearby. That costs! Unfortunately, the battle for positions in power and “chairs” often blocks culture and its workers. I know that what I’m talking about may sound unrealistic and impossible to an ordinary bureaucrat. But it can be done! For all these reasons, I cannot accept that there is no room for culture in Montenegro. On some subconscious level, I also act out of a desire to restore the lost splendor that
I dare say that, for the first time in my life, as far as filming is concerned, I am completely satisfied with my work and my role in this film! We filmed the movie in June of this year. It’s the debut feature of director Bojan Stijović, based on a script by Stefan Bošković, and produced by Veliša Popović and his production company “Cut-Up”. The director of photography was Dušan Grubin. I should mention that Marko Janketić and I play brothers. Alongside us, the cast includes Milica Janevski, Srđan Grahovac, Gorana Dragašević, Strahinja Bubanja, and others. A sad detail from this project is that our dear colleague and great actress Ratka Mugoša passed away just a few days after filming wrapped. Whether it was fate or not, I’ll share a detail from shooting an important scene that involved Ratka and me: while I was off-camera, acting as Ratka’s partner, I literally cried for the entire two hours the shoot lasted, without any particular reason! The director even had to warn me to stop crying when it was my turn. I had the opportunity to perform with her in the play “The Fisherman’s Quarrels”... Overall, I was thrilled with this project even when I first read the script, and I realized it offered a beautiful space for me, as an actor, to be fulfilled and give everything I had, to my very limits. The story is extremely heavy and intriguing. We filmed the entire movie in just 20 days! We filmed both at night and during the day, with many extremely demanding scenes. I surprised myself positively on several occasions! There were no compromises; we worked to the limit of endurance! Despite that, I believe the result will be really, really good! The entire crew, small but carefully chosen, was wonderful! This is Stika’s first film, and finally, after four or five years, I got to make a film in my own country. Because of all this, I was deeply motivated to give my best effort. I have such beautiful emotions connected to this project! I’m proud of the entire team and Montenegrin cinema in general! I can say – I can’t wait for the premiere, which I expect next summer. I’m sure the audience will enjoy it!
*This interview was taken and adapted from Diplomacy&Commerce magazine Montenegro
Art Too Dangerous to Be Seen
Inside Barcelona’s Museu de l’Art Prohibit, Where Censorship Meets Its Match
Ihave visited Barcelona multiple times, so this last trip had nothing to do with tourism. Instead, it was about spending time with local friends, wandering through the streets of the Gothic Quarter, and enjoying morning coffee at a beachfront bar. Rather than revisiting the city’s prominent landmarks, which I had already seen, I explored bookshops and galleries, searched for Lorca’s poetry in Spanish, and discovered lesser-known museums.
That’s how I stumbled upon the unusual Museu de l’Art Prohibit. Located in the heart of Barcelona, in the trendy Eixample district, this unique museum showcases artworks that have been subjected to censorship. And, as only life can orchestrate, even my visit to the museum was censored.
In fact, I was almost cancelled. After posting about the museum and several striking photos of the exhibited works, I immediately received a threatening message from Facebook.
“Your post has been removed for violating Facebook’s policies,” the message read, followed by an unexpectedly personal remark: “We don’t understand how someone with such an impeccable reputation as yours (thanks for the compliment!)—and an administrator of several highly influential Facebook pages— could even think of posting something like this
(SIC!).” They didn’t stop there. Like a mother scolding a five-year-old for sticking fingers into an electrical socket, they warned me that I would be permanently banned if I continued sharing such content.
THE CENSORSHIP REVEALED A FUNDAMENTAL FLAW IN ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE— IT CAN BE EASILY DECEIVED
I removed the controversial photos. One depicted a giant penis (Mapplethorpe, obviously), which was deemed unacceptable, while Trump’s micro-penis, on the other hand, was perfectly aligned with neoliberal privacy policies. Even a Picasso sketch of a sexual act was banned—even though dozens of similar drawings by the artist have adorned the walls of Barcelona’s oldest tavern, Els 4 Gats, for nearly two centuries without offending anyone’s morals.
Putting aside the amusing (and disturbing) notion that a large penis is unwelcome in the 21st century, this censorship revealed a fundamental flaw in artificial intelligence—it can be easily deceived. Social media’s moral policing is executed by AI algorithms that can only detect the obvious. At the same time, the subtle and hidden remain visible only to those openminded enough to perceive them. A prime example is the work of Andrés Serrano, a Spanish artist known for religious imagery (such as depictions of Christ) but who added his own urine to the paint, giving the crucified Jesus a striking glow. This technique provoked extreme outrage among religious fanatics, who repeatedly attacked his works in the late 1980s. However, Facebook’s AI algorithm couldn’t detect the artist’s urine in the photograph, allowing it to bypass censorship.
McJesus, Jani Leinonen (2015)
All photos: Dragan Nikolić
The Museum of Forbidden Art in Barcelona preserves and exhibits many such works. It was founded following the ARCO Contemporary Art Fair in Madrid in 2018, and during the event, collector, entrepreneur, and journalist Tatxo Benet acquired Santiago Sierra’s controversial artwork Political Prisoners in Contemporary Spain (Presos Políticos en la España Contemporánea), which led the gallery to immediately remove the piece from display, effectively preventing visitors from seeing it. In artistic circles, this was widely regarded as censorship, prompting Benet to lay the foundations for what is now the Museu de l’Art Prohibit in Barcelona. He has since amassed over 200 censored artworks, including pieces by Francisco de Goya, Gustav Klimt, Pablo Picasso, Zoulikha Bouabdellah, Amina Benouchta, Charo Corrales, Andy Warhol, Mapplethorpe, and Banksy, and placed them on public display in the heart of Barcelona to restore their visibility.
The 2,000-square-metre museum takes visitors on a journey through the scandalous, ironic, thought-provoking, incisive, liberating, critical, and empowering nature of its collection. Digital tools enhance the experience, extending the exhibition beyond the gallery walls and allowing visitors to navigate instances of censorship as if exploring a virtual museum.
IF WE DON’T BELIEVE IN FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION FOR PEOPLE WE DESPISE, WE DON’T BELIEVE IN IT AT ALL - NOAM CHOMSKY
MUSEUM ABOUT CENSORSHIP IN ART
In the 21st century, censorship, bans, and cancellations of culture proliferate. In this context, Noam Chomsky’s assertion, “If we don’t believe in freedom of expression for people we despise, we don’t believe in it at all,” remains all too pertinent.
Indeed, the history of art is plagued with instances of censorship. Michelangelo grappled with it while painting the Sistine Chapel, as did Francisco de Goya, with some of his engravings from the Los Caprichos series exhibited in the Museu de l’Art Prohibit. Gustav Klimt and Pablo Picasso, whose work can be seen at the Museu de l’Art Prohibit, also encountered proscriptions.
While studies on censorship and cancel culture are scarce, notable exercises include journalist and writer Gareth Harris’ book Censored Art Today. The volume, published by Lund Humphries and Sotheby’s Institute of Art in 2022, identifies and scrutinises the myriad di-
mensions of censorship that obstruct the principle of free artistic expression.
Gareth Harris emphasises that “restricting what people see and absorb ultimately revolves around controlling a narrative for a mass audience, both in the physical and virtual realms, from determining why historical monuments should be removed from public view to suspending artists’ social media accounts.” An indispensable evaluation, Censored Art Today strives to elucidate why censorship is on the rise, who enforces it and who bears its brunt.
Indeed, Svetlana Mintcheva, the director and founder of the National Coalition Against Censorship (NCAC), an organisation dedicated to defending the arts against censorship, is one of the leading figures who has written about the boundaries between freedom of expression and creativity. Her article “Caravaggio killed a man. Should we therefore censor his art? “, published in The Guardian in February 2018, continues to provoke reflection.
Just as the NCAC champions freedom of thought, inquiry and expression and opposes censorship in all forms, the Museu de l’Art Prohibit emerges with the aspiration of serving as a realm of creative freedom and a laboratory for addressing acts of censorship in the arts.
Source: Museu de l’Art Prohibit
McJesus, Jani Leinonen (2015) La Revolucion, Fabian Chairez (2014) Mao, Andy Warhol (1972)
Caprichos, Francisco d Goya (XVIII century)
British Music That Changed the World
The Sounds of Rebellion, Reinvention, and Global Influence
The British are unmatched in popular culture, which has a touch of high culture and refined taste. Their films, iconic TV series, and pop music have permanently changed the world and all of us in it, leaving an indelible mark on people far beyond Britain’s shores.
HOW ELVIS BECAME PROMETHEUS, AND HAMBURG SAVED BRITAIN
It all began in the southern United States, where African Americans played the blues and, in the early 20th century, created new forms of guitar music that later evolved into rock and roll. Just as Prometheus stole fire from the gods and gave it to humanity, Elvis Presley took “black” music, adapted it to a white audience and his own sensibility, and – rock and roll became a global phenomenon!
THE BEATLES REMAINED THE GREATEST BAND OF ALL TIME, SPAWNING AN ENTIRE PANTHEON OF BRITISH STARS UNLIKE ANYTHING THE WORLD HAD SEEN BEFORE
Enthralled by the wealth of an unscathed America and a language they already spoke, Britain immediately embraced rock and roll. However, much of it was merely derivative, largely consisting of covers of American melodies. This wasn’t enough to conquer Europe, let alone the world. Europe was singing French chansons and Italian canzoni at the time, and listening to Sanremo was a major cultural event across the continent. Europe was much smaller in an artistic sense than today – Turkey, Greece, Spain, and Portugal were under military juntas or rigid, closed regimes,
while the Eastern Bloc lived in its own world.
Then, an obscure five-piece band from Liverpool travelled to Hamburg and returned as a four-piece, transformed by their experience and reshaping global music under the influence of German existentialists.
Of course, that band was The Beatles. When they first arrived in Hamburg, they wore glittery jackets, styled their hair like Elvis, and performed covers of American hits. But their fifth member, Stuart Sutcliffe, met the German beauty and photographer Astrid Kirchherr, who moved in existentialist circles.
They dressed in blazers, black turtlenecks, or white shirts and swept their hair over their foreheads. A new aesthetic was born – the defining look of 1960s Britain – and a new sound. Sutcliffe devoted himself to painting, and The Beatles remained the greatest band of all time, spawning an entire pantheon of British stars unlike anything the world had seen before.
They conquered America, triggering what the American press called the First British Invasion –infectious melodies, sharp suits, the image of sophisticated charmers… The counterculture was born, and the world moved away from chansons and canzoni as everyone began imitating Britain and the British. The Rolling Stones, Gerry and the Pacemakers, The Who, The Kinks, The Animals… The world went mad. Teenagers, unwilling to live in the same world as their parents after the horrors of World War
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II, changed everything. Even the USSR and Yugoslavia, where records were smuggled or pressed onto Xray scans, weren’t immune to the revolution.
THE ENCHANTING BOWIE AND THE WILD SEVENTIES
When the director of A Knight’s Tale was asked why he used 1970s music in a film set just before the discovery of America in 1470, he replied: “The ‘70s are the ‘70s in every century!” After the decline of the hippie movement in the early ‘70s and its descent into drugs (the near-simultaneous deaths of Jimi Hendrix, Jim Morrison, and Janis Joplin marked its tragic end), the post-hippie generation turned to flamboyant hedonism and experimentation. Suddenly, another taboo was shattered – flirting with bisexuality became fashionable, as did a feminised image: long hair, makeup, and high heels.
David Bowie, the greatest figure in popular music history (not for the number of No. 1 hits or records sold, but for his sheer innovation), created personas that he fully embodied – Ziggy Stardust, Aladdin Sane, the Thin White Duke… Queen won hearts with their melodies, while T. Rex did the same with their music androgynous style – feather boas, eyeliner, and glitter. Elton John dazzled with ever-changing glasses and flamboyant suits at the piano.
The sexual revolution was in full swing – AIDS was not even on the horizon – and once again, the world danced to Britain’s rhythm, now more colourful than ever. Everyone imitated them – look at Bijelo Dugme in that era! Prog rock introduced epic, 25-minute-long songs and intellectual depth, while hard rock took off, with bands like Led Zeppelin filling stadiums with intricate ballads and electrifying guitar riffs.
And then came punk. Almost out of nowhere, in 1976, a group of angry, working-class youth emerged from Sex, a boutique run by Malcolm McLaren and designer Vivienne Westwood. They wanted nothing to do with flamboyance and glamour – they were raw, rebellious, and broke. Their songs were furious, unpolished, and barely lasted two minutes. None of them pretended to be skilled musicians, nor did they care.
Ironically, while the British press—already accustomed to Bowie’s makeup but allergic to workingclass rebellion—dismissed punk as “filthy lucre,” punk conquered the world. It burned fast, but in its ashes, it gave birth to a new movement still considered one of the greatest in music history. And that was…
PERHAPS THE BIGGEST ‘BRITISH-SOUNDING’ HITS ARE NO LONGER MADE BY BRITISH ARTISTS, BUT THEY STILL SOUND UNMISTAKABLY BRITISH
THE SECOND BRITISH INVASION
New Wave! Punk lived by the mantra “live fast, die young”; true to its word, it burned out quickly, destroying everything in its path but lacking a clear vision for what came next—like all revolutions. However, its more polished successor, soon known as New Wave, retained punk’s raw energy in a more refined, intellectual, and accessible form, making it more appealing to a broader audience.
This was the dawn of the Second British Invasion, a movement with surprisingly fascinating origins. It coincided with two significant historical and technological shifts. The first was the rise of cable television in the United States at the beginning of the decade, and the second was that by 1979, most households had colour televisions. But what’s the point of having a colour TV if the programmes remain dull and muted? Viewers craved something vibrant and flashy, while cable networks struggled to fill their airtime.
Enter MTV, launched on 1 August 1981, a channel dedicated to Music Television. The problem? The American music industry had ignored music videos mainly. Old-school rockers saw them as unnecessary,
offs: The Beatles vs. The Rolling Stones, The Stone Roses vs. The Happy Mondays, and Oasis vs. Blur. So, again, Britain led the world in music, fashion, and culture—as it always had.
BRITPOP:
THE NEW NEW WAVE
Just as Americans were recovering from the shock of the Second British Invasion, they struck back in the late ‘80s with bands like Guns N’ Roses, Bon Jovi, and Nirvana. But Britain had its own counterattack brewing quietly, with the rise of shoegaze, then with bands like The House of Love, The Stone Roses, and The Happy Mondays.
and most US hits had no accompanying videos—those that did were often just concert footage. As a result, when MTV launched, it had no choice but to air a huge number of British New Wave music videos.
The first video ever broadcast on MTV in the US was the 1979 Buggles hit Video Killed the Radio Star. To the music industry’s surprise, record sales for artists featured on MTV skyrocketed as listeners started calling up radio stations demanding to hear those same songs. And the videos? They were vivid, extravagant, and dripping with style. Duran Duran led the charge with their exotic, cinematic videos for Rio, Save a Prayer, and Hungry Like the Wolf, filmed in Sri Lanka and Antigua. They became both style and music icons, influencing an entire generation. At the same time, darker, more alternative movements emerged from unexpected corners of Britain. The Smiths, Joy Division, The Jesus and Mary Chain, The Cure, and the entire goth subculture created some of the most influential cult bands in history—shaping entire new musical genres, almost by accident.
Meanwhile, the British press masterfully fuelled rivalries with its signature dichotomy approach, setting up dramatic musical face-
And then, in 1993, the madness called Britpop began. A catch-all term for a fresh wave of British music, Britpop was led by Suede, Oasis, Blur, and Pulp—each unique yet unmistakably British, but the times had changed. The world now had its own favourite genres. In 1984, Duran Duran was the biggest band simultaneously in Germany, Yugoslavia, Italy, and Britain. But by 1994, British music didn’t travel quite as far. Americans were deep into R&B and hip-hop, Europe was dancing to Eurodance, and East Asia was quietly building what would soon become the world’s biggest cultural phenomenon—J-Pop and K-Pop. Yet, the influence of Britpop was still enormous.
From 2003 to 2013, the biggest musical trend was the indie revival, led by British acts like Franz Ferdinand, The Ting Tings, and Editors. But something strange happened— the biggest bands of this era weren’t British, but American bands that sounded British.
When The Killers, The Strokes, and Interpol emerged, many were surprised to learn they were American. And this, in itself, is proof of Britain’s musical dominance—by then, the seeds sown by British music had taken root worldwide, perhaps even surpassing the original source. That’s the highest compliment possible.
Even today, when you hear The Weeknd (Canada) or Rosé (New Zealand/Australia/Korea), whose duet with Bruno Mars (Apt.) is one of the catchiest hits in years, it’s clear they grew up on ’80s British music and the indie revival.
Perhaps the biggest “Britishsounding” hits are no longer made by British artists. But they still sound unmistakably British. And that is the greatest testament to the influence of this small island nation—an undisputed musical superpower.
Photo: Tyler Nottley / Shutterstock
Top 15 Cuisines in the World
Of course, e verything is a matter of taste, but if we go by the numbers collected by Taste Atlas, which evaluated 15,478 food items and dishes and gathered 477,287 valid ratings worldwide, here is the ranking from 15th to 1st place!
• 15th place is Serbia The “Must Try” list includes the following (with average ratings in brackets, the maximum being 5.0): Pazarske mantije (4.7), Leskovac homemade ajvar (4.7), Arilje raspberry (4.7), Komplet lepinja (4.6), and, of course, Leskovac barbecue (4.6).
• Peruvian cuisine takes 14th place, with recommended specialities including Anticuchos de corazón (4.6), Aji criollo (4.6), Salsa de rocoto (4.6), Ají limo (4.6), and Pollo a la brasa (4.5).
• The United States ranks 13th, with its toprated dishes being American lobster (4.8), Pacific smoked salmon (4.7), Wild Alaska salmon (4.6), South Texas-style barbecue (4.6), and Boiled Maine lobster (4.5) – mostly salmon and lobster!
• A bit of a surprise comes at number 12, where Indian cuisine unexpectedly placed lower than expected. Many assumed it would be in the Top 5—but alas, statistics show no mercy! The highest-rated dishes include Amritsari kulcha (4.7), Butter garlic naan (4.6), Garam masala (4.6), Murgh makhani (4.5), and Hyderabadi biryani (4.5).
• Another Slavic entry is Polish cuisine, which secured 11th place. Must-try dishes include
Truskawka Kaszubska (4.7), Miód Wrzosowy z Borów Dolnośląskich (4.6), Pierogi (4.5), Sernik (4.5), and Pączki (4.5).
• Chinese cuisine did not fare well either, ranking only 10th. The top-rated dishes were Guotie (4.7), Biang Biang noodles (4.6), Dou ban Jiang (4.6), Yúxiāng (4.6), and Jinxiang da suan (4.6).
• Their eastern neighbours, Japan, placed one spot higher, with must-try dishes including Hamamatsu gyoza (4.8), Wagyu (4.7), Kaisendon (4.6), Chutoro nigiri sushi (4.6), and Kushiyaki (4.6).
• Is French cuisine the best? No, according to the ratings – it only comes in eighth! The recommended dishes are Miel de Provence (4.7), Châteaubriand (4.6), Saint-Félicien (4.6), Crottin de Chavignol (4.6), and Croûte aux morilles (4.6).
• Indonesian cuisine ranks slightly higher, with the best-rated dishes being Bawang goreng (4.8), Siomay (4.7), Nasi padang (4.7), Rawon (4.6), and Batagor (4.6).
• Turkish cuisine, which is well-loved in the Balkans, takes sixth place. The best-rated dishes are Kahvaltı (4.9), Samsun Pidesi (4.7), Tire köftesi (4.7), Antep fıstığı (4.6), and Çökertme kebabı (4.6)—meatballs and kebabs we know all too well.
• Spain comes in fourth place, with its best dishes being Jamón 100% ibérico de bellota (4.8), Pimentón de la Vera (4.7), Vieiras en su concha (4.7), Azafrán de la Mancha (4.7), and Cordero asado (4.6).
NOW, WE HAVE REACHED THE MEDAL WINNERS!
• Mexico takes bronze, with dishes that would make Patak Dača freeze in awe: Quesabirria (4.7), Chiltomate (4.7), Camarones enchipotlados (4.7), Chinantla Vanilla (4.6), and Chilorio (4.6). Unsurprisingly, they rank so high, as much of what makes global cuisine today originated from Mexico after the 15th century!
• Italy claims silver, and we are all familiar with its top-rated dishes – Pizza Napoletana (4.8), Parmigiano Reggiano (4.7), Gianduja (4.7), Pomodoro S. Marzano dell’Agro Sarnese-Nocerino (4.7), and Pomodoro di Pachino (4.7).
• And the champions are – the Greeks! The Mediterranean reigns supreme, with four of the top four cuisines. When in Greece, they say you must try Fystiki Aeginas (4.8), Finiki Lakonias (4.8), Kalamata (4.7), Fava Santorinis (4.7), and Portokalia Maleme Chanion Kritis (4.7). Bon appétit!
Source: Taste Atlas
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