Experts raise concerns over Croatia’s migrant approach

Zagreb

Seven years after conservative members of the European Parliament demanded the closure of the so-called Balkan migrant route, migration remains a pressing issue — particularly in Croatia.

Speaking on HRT’s Studio 4, demographer and political scientist Tado Jurić and political analyst Dejan Kovač offered insights into the current state of migration in Croatia and the EU.

Jurić highlighted a growing imbalance between legal and illegal migration in Croatia.

While illegal border crossings are reportedly decreasing — from 65,000 two years ago to fewer today — Jurić argued this is largely due to the ease of entering Croatia legally.

“There’s no longer a need to cross illegally. People come through agencies, with work permits, and without any real criteria, unlike in other EU countries,” he warned, suggesting Croatia is inadvertently facilitating access to the wider EU.

Jurić criticised the notion that there is a shortage of workers in Croatia, claiming many locals are willing to work but under fairer conditions.

He also raised concerns about alleged algorithmic discrimination against Croatian workers in food delivery and ride-sharing apps.

Kovač addressed recent comments by German Chancellor Merz regarding stricter migration controls. He suggested such rhetoric is largely pre-election posturing, noting that Germany is in urgent need of labour.

“With an annual requirement of 400,000 workers, deportations are unrealistic. Migrants sustain key sectors — from elderly care to logistics,” Kovač explained.

Food delivery worker

He also emphasised Germany’s structured integration efforts, such as mandatory language learning, and encouraged Croatia to view migrants as future citizens, not just temporary labour.

Jurić concluded by contrasting Croatia’s strategy with Western Europe’s, noting that countries like Germany attract highly educated talent, while Croatia mainly imports low-wage workers.

“Croatia risks repeating mistakes already seen across the EU. We have no integration policy and no strategic migration plan,” Jurić warned.

As migration continues to shape Europe’s social and economic landscape, experts agree Croatia must urgently reassess its approach.