HDZ and DP Hold Constructive Talks on Forming Stable Majority Government in Croatia

The ruling Croatian Democratic Union (HDZ) party and the Homeland Movement (DP) held their first round of negotiations on Wednesday to discuss forming a new parliamentary majority and government in Croatia. The talks were characterized as progressing positively by HDZ's Ivan Anušić, with the next meeting anticipated by the end of this week or early next week.

In Croatia's recent parliamentary election, the HDZ won the most seats but fell short of an outright majority. Prime Minister Andrej Plenković, who leads the HDZ, said the party has already begun discussions with potential coalition partners to establish a stable majority government. The main opposition Social Democratic Party (SDP) finished second, while the far-right DP emerged as a potential kingmaker after securing 14 seats.

The DP stated they would adhere to their campaign promises and not betray voters' trust, including refusing to be part of a majority that includes the SDSS and Možemo parties. Meanwhile, the SDP-led 'Rivers of Justice' coalition remains hopeful they can form a new parliamentary majority. SDP leaders expressed optimism that a solution can be reached if all parties stand firm on their campaign commitments.

President Zoran Milanović, who backed the SDP, said the election results demonstrated a rejection of corruption and inequality. The election was viewed as a test of the conservatives' popularity ahead of the European Parliament election in June. If the HDZ remains in power, Croatia would maintain its pro-Western, pro-EU stance, contrasting with President Milanović's more Russia-friendly views.

Why this matters: The outcome of Croatia's government formation talks will shape the country's political direction and its stance on key issues like support for Ukraine. It also highlights the challenges of coalition building in a fragmented political landscape.

Negotiations are now focused on finding the best possible solutions among the interested parties. "The talks were progressing positively," said HDZ's Ivan Anušić, adding that the next meeting would take place by the end of the week or early next week. The HDZ has largely held power since Croatia gained independence, and its continued rule would mean Croatia stays on a pro-Western course in supporting Ukraine against Russia.

Key Takeaways

• HDZ and DP held first talks on forming new majority government in Croatia.
• HDZ won most seats but fell short of majority, seeks coalition partners.
• DP emerged as potential kingmaker, rejects coalition with SDSS and Možemo.
• SDP-led 'Rivers of Justice' coalition hopes to form new majority.
• HDZ's continued rule would keep Croatia on pro-Western, pro-EU course.