Croatia launches commission to strengthen national security

(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)

ZAGREB, 6 May 2025 – The Government of the Republic of Croatia has today established an Interdepartmental Commission dedicated to the development and strengthening of national defence capabilities and the domestic defence industry.

The Ministry of Defence has said that the newly-formed Commission will play a central role in proposing, coordinating and monitoring activities and plans in the defence sector.

It will also assess the financial impact of increased budget allocations to defence.

Chaired by Prime Minister Andrej Plenković, the Commission includes Deputy Chair Ivan Anušić, who also serves as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence.

Other members represent various government ministries, reflecting the cross-sectoral nature of the initiative.

According to the government’s decision, the Commission will be responsible for overseeing the use of multiple funding sources for strategically important defence projects.

This includes analysing and coordinating investments aimed at boosting Croatia’s defence capabilities and industrial capacities.

A significant part of the Commission’s work will focus on bridging the defence sector with the scientific and research community, with the goal of advancing technological development and encouraging innovation in defence products and technologies.

Additionally, the Commission will evaluate the financial implications of increased defence spending, including the potential activation of the national escape clause within the EU’s Stability and Growth Pact.

This move represents a strategic effort to enhance Croatia’s long-term defence readiness while fostering industrial growth and technological innovation within the sector.