Croatia: Drivers block roads June 20 to protest high fuel prices

Event

For the second time in a week, Croatian drivers protested rising fuel costs by blocking major highways and roads nationwide on Wednesday, June 20. The demonstrations caused significant traffic disruptions, particularly in the capital, Zagreb. Local sources reported that at some locations police intervened and ticketed drivers responsible for blocking traffic. Additional similar protests and consequent traffic disruptions are likely in the coming weeks.

Context

Organizers of the protest claim that fuel costs in Croatia are among the highest in Europe. The current price of fuel is approximately HRK 10.5 (USD 1.64) per liter, but protesters believe petrol should cost no more than HRK 9 (USD 1.41) per liter. Demonstrators are calling for the government to reduce taxes on fuel, which account for approximately 60 percent of the cost of fuel. Drivers in Bosnia and Serbia have staged similar protests in recent weeks as Western Balkan consumers increasingly feel the rising global price of fuel.

Advice

Individuals in Croatia, particularly in Zagreb, are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all demonstrations as a precaution, and allow for additional time to travel in affected areas.