Croatia Prepares New Demographics Law: What Could It Mean for Emigrants and Families?

Croatia is preparing a new Demographics Act aimed at addressing population decline, encouraging the return of Croatian emigrants and creating better conditions for families. However, experts warn that reversing decades of emigration and demographic decline will require more than legislation alone.

Josip Faričić, rector of the University of Zadar, says the proposed law should establish clear objectives and a coordinated approach to one of Croatia’s most pressing social challenges.

He discussed demographic revitalisation, the return of Croatian emigrants, the future of young families and the survival of vulnerable communities during an appearance on Croatian public broadcaster HRT’s program *Globalna Hrvatska*.

Descendants of Croatian emigrants could help revitalise the country

Growing interest among descendants of Croatian emigrants in obtaining Croatian citizenship has raised questions about their potential contribution to the country’s demographic recovery.

Faričić believes anyone who chooses Croatia as a place to live, work or study should be welcomed, particularly people with Croatian roots.

“To strengthen our population base, this group of potential immigrants is certainly extremely important,” he said.

He added that descendants of Croatian emigrants may find it easier to integrate into Croatian society because of their existing connection to the country’s identity and heritage. Their arrival could also support the development of local communities.

Encouraging returns and stemming emigration

While stories about second-, third- and fourth-generation Croatians returning from overseas often attract attention, a significant proportion of Croatian citizens moving back to the country come from Germany.

Faričić noted that migration patterns are influenced by wider European and global developments. Croatia must therefore focus not only on attracting people back but also on creating conditions that encourage residents to stay.

Economic stability, legal certainty and a social environment in which people can pursue their personal and professional ambitions are essential, he said.

What could the new Demographics Act introduce?

The legislation is still being drafted, and Faričić hopes it will go beyond broad statements of intent to establish clear goals and define institutional responsibilities.

“What we expect is that this will not be merely a declaratory law, but one that clearly sets out policy objectives and regulates the relevant responsibilities,” he said.

He also believes demographic considerations should be incorporated into major policy decisions, particularly those concerning regional development.

Reviving rural areas, islands and depopulated regions

Some of Croatia’s greatest demographic challenges are concentrated in areas affected by decades of emigration and an ageing population. These include Lika, the Dalmatian hinterland, parts of Slavonia and the Croatian islands.

Despite these challenges, Faričić believes such areas have significant development potential, thanks to their preserved natural environments and quality of life.

Better transport connections, improved access to healthcare and social services, and the expansion of digital technologies could help persuade young families to settle in these communities and encourage existing residents to stay.

Can one law reverse Croatia’s demographic decline?

Although there have been some encouraging developments in birth figures, Croatia continues to face a long-term natural population decline, with deaths outnumbering births.

Faričić cautioned against expecting immediate results from the proposed legislation.

“We cannot expect miracles from a single law,” he said.

He stressed that demographic policy must address the needs of all generations, from improving conditions for young families to ensuring a dignified quality of life for older people.

Ultimately, Croatia’s demographic recovery will require a sustained, long-term strategy that encourages emigrants to return, gives residents reasons to stay and secures the future of communities across the country.