Croatian Parliament debates Regulation on the Transparency and Targeting of Political Advertising

Justice Minister Damir Habijan presented a new EU-backed regulation to lawmakers today that would require political parties to disclose the sponsors and costs of all political advertisements.

The regulation is intended to increase transparency, combat disinformation, and prevent foreign interference, particularly ahead of elections. All parliamentary parties, except Most, have expressed support.

Most MP Nikola Grmoja criticized the proposal, saying, “This isn’t a regulation on transparency, it’s a ban on political advertising. Meanwhile, the big parties will always find ways to advertise: HDZ controls the media, and Možemo! uses affiliated NGOs. It’s clear the two factions are in this together.”

Minister Habijan responded, emphasizing that all parties, regardless of size, have the same obligations under the regulation. “Citizens have the right to know who paid for an advertisement and who ordered it, no matter the political affiliation. Perhaps opposition stems from a desire to hide the source of advertising funds,” he added.

Fines for violating the regulation will range from €13,000 to €133,000 once it is implemented.