Croatia’s Prime Minister Andrej Plenković recently unveiled the country’s State Budget for the upcoming year to the members of Parliament. This is the eighth budget proposed under significantly altered geopolitical circumstances, and the primary priorities remain safeguarding vulnerable citizens, maintaining public finance security, and investing in Croatia’s growth.

The nation is currently grappling with an energy and food crisis as well as inflationary pressures. To address these challenges, the government has implemented measures to preserve social cohesion, prevent rising prices, and ensure that essential institutions function normally.

During his address, Mr. Plenković emphasized the importance of political stability in achieving strategic objectives and managing crises. He highlighted the government’s efforts in ensuring macroeconomic and financial stability, improving Croatia’s credit rating, and securing 25 billion euros from the European Union.

Key areas of focus for next year’s budget include investments in transport infrastructure, reconstruction, energy, and education. The government also aims to reduce public debt while keeping a budget deficit below three percent and increasing salaries and pensions.

Furthermore, funds have been allocated for various projects such as the Law on Personal Assistance, Law on Inclusive Allowance, child allowance, free textbooks, transportation costs in schools