Two women killed in Rijeka and Međimurje as femicide cases rise to 18 this year

Police are still working to determine the motive behind the murder of a young woman in downtown Rijeka on Saturday, a case that has further intensified public concern over rising violence against women in Croatia.

According to investigators, the victim was stabbed by a 24-year-old man who then attempted to take his own life. The suspect, who was in a relationship with the woman, is currently being treated in the psychiatric ward of Rijeka Hospital. Once doctors complete his medical assessment, he will be transferred to police custody and brought before an investigating judge.

Rijeka Mayor Iva Rinčić condemned the killing and warned that broader social trends are contributing to an increase in violence.

“This was not a random occurrence, given the signs we've been seeing in our society recently — including in our own city, which we are determined to keep safe. There has been an increase in hate speech, which can trigger other forms of violence like this. It is clear that the system has failed, and our city must take additional steps, beginning with prevention,” Rinčić said.

This case, along with the murder of another woman earlier this week, brings the number of femicides in Croatia to 18 so far this year. The Women’s Network Croatia, an umbrella organization of women's rights groups, is calling for comprehensive legal reform and a single law regulating all forms of violence against women. Advocates warn that institutions often fail to protect victims — and sometimes even work against them.

“We need to overhaul the entire system. This includes the police, the state attorney’s office, social welfare institutions, and the courts. Victims are repeatedly revictimized by the system, and that must change,” said attorney Morena Lekan.

Psychology professor Dean Ajduković echoed the call for systemic improvements, saying many victims lose hope after reporting abuse.

“Victims are often discouraged by what happens after they report abuse, because the response is not what they expected or needed. When I say we must strengthen the local community and every part of the system that deals with these cases, I mean adopting zero tolerance for violence,” Ajduković told HRT.

Parliament Speaker Gordan Jandroković also called for stronger penalties for violent offenders.

“The state must do everything it can to prevent this. Courts should probably impose harsher penalties on those who already show a tendency toward violence, and I hope we will see fewer such cases next year,” Jandroković said.