Anti-fascist protesters say police failed to protect them

Reactions continued Monday following protest marches organized by the United Against Fascism initiative in Zagreb, Rijeka, Zadar, and Pula. 

Organizers said the marches were a response to what they called the hallmarks of fascism: widespread violence, fear, threats, and bans.

However, minor incidents involving counter-protesters led to five arrests in Rijeka and Zadar.

In Rijeka, activist Ana Jurčić criticized police for failing to protect demonstrators.

“The police allowed an unreported, organized and violent gathering of a fascist gang of men who threw firecrackers at the participants, injuring a child,” said Jurčić.

Police said video footage is being reviewed, and charges will follow against anyone who broke the law.

Interior Minister Davor Božinović defended the authorities, saying officers acted “quickly and professionally.”

"We protect the safety of citizens equally, even when they are protesting against state institutions and against the police themselves," Božinović wrote on Facebook, adding that Croatia is “a democratic, open, and stable country” and that “there must be no room for violence, not even verbal violence,” said Božinović.

Tourism Minister Tonči Glavina criticized banners suggesting tourists are unsafe, while Labor Minister Marin Piletić said the marches risk widening social divisions.

“We must work together to ensure that the Croatian economy continues to be among the best in Europe, and that everyone, regardless of ideology, comes together to help make Croatia a country from which people will not emigrate,” he stressed.

The government reiterated that public debate should remain peaceful, while organizers say they will continue protesting against what they see as rising extremist rhetoric.