POLITICAL FRAMEWORK

Croatia fought for and achieved its political independence in the early nineties, at a time of major changes in Eastern Europe. The process evolving in Croatia has since its beginning been democratically oriented and was triggered by democratic elections. Two principles formed the basis of our national credo: market economy and high democratic social standards.

However, the Yugoslav leadership of that period, under dominating Serbian influence, decided to wage a war against Croatia – exploiting all resources of the former state, especially the military. Croatia found itself in the position of facing radical sociopolitical structural changes while at the same time being exposed to the brutal aggression triggered by Serbian ambitions.

With the exception of a few individuals and states, the world did not understand our situation, so that Croatia faced dramatic moments for its existence. We were exposed to international pressure after being unjustly labeled as a state that does not respect human rights and freedom of the press. At that time, however, Croatia experienced the massive political support of its population in forming the state and implementing a program for independence and international affirmation of state interest.

In spite of adverse circumstances, Croatia continues to abide by the ideals of a democratic society, a state of law, and a market economy. Even in the most critical moments of the war, Croatia persevered in the implementation of its privatization and reconstruction program.