Croatians rally against mega poultry farms as over 50,000 sign petition 

(Photo: Prijatelji životinja)

A growing public campaign against the construction of large-scale poultry farms and slaughterhouses in central Croatia has gained significant momentum, with more than 50,000 citizens signing a petition calling for the projects to be halted.

The proposed developments involve 19 large poultry farms and slaughterhouses in Sisak-Moslavina County, along with an additional farm planned in Ivanić-Grad.

Opponents argue that the issue goes far beyond a local planning dispute and instead represents a national decision about the future direction of Croatia’s development.

Following a protest in Zagreb that drew more than 5,000 participants and received support from around 160 civil society organisations, campaign organisers said the message from the public is clear.

“This is not just a local struggle for one county. It is a national issue and a decision about the direction Croatia wants to take,” organisers said, adding that citizens are calling for a complete ban on such large-scale facilities.

(Photo: Prijatelji životinja)

Concerns Over Economic and Social Impact

Supporters of the petition question whether the planned investments would truly benefit local communities. While investors claim the projects could create thousands of jobs, campaigners say experiences in other countries with similar industrial farming complexes suggest a different outcome.

According to activists, large-scale facilities can disrupt local agricultural markets and push smaller producers out of business. They argue that production often becomes concentrated in the hands of a few investors, increasing dependency on large companies.

(Photo: Prijatelji životinja)

Campaign group Prijatelji životinja (Friends of Animals) also raised concerns about potential social effects, including falling property values, depopulation in affected areas and the reliance on low-paid labour.

They claim that jobs created by such facilities are often highly automated, physically demanding and involve exposure to harmful substances.

“Not every investment represents real development,” the group stated, warning that industrial farming complexes could damage the region’s environment, economy and quality of life.

Opponents of the projects say intensive poultry farming poses serious environmental risks regardless of production technology or scale.

They argue that large facilities produce significant emissions and waste, including manure, ammonia, methane and other pollutants that can affect soil, water and air quality.

(Photo: Prijatelji životinja)

Animal welfare groups also highlight concerns about the conditions associated with intensive poultry production systems.

Critics of the proposed projects say the developments are incompatible with the existing development potential of Sisak-Moslavina County.

Information published by the Ministry of Economy highlights the region’s preserved natural environment and rich cultural heritage as key assets for tourism development. The county is known for its diverse landscapes and natural attractions, including Lonjsko Polje Nature Park, one of Croatia’s largest protected wetland areas.

The region is also home to hyperthermal medicinal water springs known since Roman times, which have been identified as a strong foundation for health and wellness tourism.

(Photo: Prijatelji životinja)

Campaigners argue that industrial farming complexes located close to rivers, nature parks, schools and residential areas could undermine these long-term opportunities.

Organisers of the petition say the issue now represents a broader national debate about Croatia’s future development model.

They warn that allowing such large-scale facilities in Sisak-Moslavina County could set a precedent for similar projects across the country.

“If these projects are allowed today, tomorrow no part of Croatia will be safe from the same scenario,” organisers said.

(Photo: Prijatelji životinja)

The campaign is continuing to gather support, with activists calling on citizens to sign the petition and take part in a planned protest in Sisak on 25 April 2026.

Campaigners say the decision will ultimately determine whether Croatia prioritises industrial-scale agricultural investment or alternative models of sustainable regional development.

(Photo: Prijatelji životinja)