Croatian Presidential Election: A Controversial Victory Amidst Allegations of Interference

The Croatian presidential election has been marred by controversy, with allegations of foreign interference and the use of social media bots to sway public opinion. Incumbent President Zoran Milanović has emerged victorious, securing a second term with a significant majority, despite criticisms of his stance on NATO and the EU.

Key Takeaways

• Zoran Milanović won the presidential runoff with over 74% of the vote.
• Allegations of pro-Russian interference and the use of bots to promote anti-NATO sentiments have surfaced.
• The election results reflect a growing divide in Croatian politics regarding EU and NATO relations.

Election Results

In the runoff held on January 12, 2025, Zoran Milanović, representing the opposition, defeated Dragan Primorac of the ruling Croatian Democratic Union (HDZ) with a staggering 74% of the vote. This marks the highest percentage for a presidential candidate since Croatia’s independence in 1991. Primorac garnered nearly 26% of the votes, highlighting a significant gap between the two candidates.

Allegations of Interference

The election has been overshadowed by claims of foreign interference, particularly from pro-Russian entities. Researchers from the Centre for Information Resilience reported that bot networks were actively promoting Milanović while disseminating anti-NATO and anti-EU messages. These bots were observed on various social media platforms, including X, Facebook, and TikTok, amplifying pro-Milanović content and attacking his opponent.

Milanović’s Controversial Stance

Milanović’s presidency has been characterized by his critical views on NATO and the EU. He has openly opposed military aid to Ukraine and criticized Western sanctions against Russia. His populist rhetoric has drawn comparisons to figures like Donald Trump, appealing to a segment of the Croatian population that is skeptical of Western alliances.

Political Implications

The election results signal a potential shift in Croatia’s political landscape. Milanović’s victory may embolden his anti-EU and anti-NATO stance, raising concerns among political analysts about the future of Croatia’s foreign policy. Prime Minister Andrej Plenković, who endorsed Primorac, faces challenges in maintaining support amid corruption allegations against his cabinet members.

Conclusion

As Croatia navigates its relationship with the EU and NATO, the implications of this election will be closely monitored. Milanović’s administration is expected to continue its critical approach towards Western alliances, potentially reshaping Croatia’s role in European politics. The allegations of interference and the influence of social media bots raise important questions about the integrity of democratic processes in the region.

Sources

• In pics: heavy snow in Karlovac, Croatia-Xinhua, Xinhua.
• Bots identified pushing anti-NATO messages in Croatian presidential runoff | The Record from Recorded Future News, The Record from Recorded Future News.
• Alleged pro-Russian interference hangs over Croatian election – Euractiv, Euractiv.
• Russian bots boosted NATO critic ahead of Croatian election, researchers say – POLITICO, POLITICO.eu.
• Croatia’s President Milanovic wins second term in election landslide | South China Morning Post, South China Morning Post.