Croatia Country Report

Croatia is an economically and politically stable country, located on the Adriatic coast of the Balkans region of southeastern Europe. The country has three distinct regions: Lowland Croatia, Littoral Croatia, and Mountainish Croatia. The country is a popular tourist destination, and citizens have enjoyed steady economic growth and rising living standards as the country has transitioned into a market economy. However, a culture of corruption and excessive bureaucracy has been a hindrance to foreign investment in the country. Petty crime poses the greatest threat to visitors. Infrastructure is generally well developed and tourist facilities are available in the main cities and resorts.

Petty crime is the most prominent threat to travelers. Pickpockets and scammers operate frequently in the capital Zagreb, the coastal city Dubrovnik and other busy tourist locations, primarily along the Adriatic coastline. Violent crime is rare. Civil unrest in Croatia is relatively rare. Socio-economic issues are typical drivers of unrest; these are often small-scale and peaceful.

There are no significant concerns over air travel to and from Croatia.

Road travel is generally safe, particularly on the well-developed highway network. Coastal roads tend to be narrow and windy.

The ports are considered reliable in Croatia, with the ferries being safe.

The utilities' infrastructure is generally considered dependable, and there are no major issues with electricity, gas and water services.

Croatia has increasingly focussed on the growing threat from cyber attacks amid a heightened number of security incidents.

Unexploded landmines left over from the Yugoslav Wars still pose a danger in some of the more isolated places in Croatia, especially in mountainous and rural areas. Most minefields are clearly marked. Croatia lies in a seismically active zone and is susceptible to minor earthquakes. Frequent heavy rain between May and August occasionally results in localized flooding throughout the country. Forest fires may occur during hot and dry periods.

The most common travel-related ailment is travelers' diarrhea. Insect-borne diseases are present, including Tick-borne Encephalitis. Most medical facilities are well-maintained and well-equipped. Healthcare services are accessible and efficient; however, these services are limited in rural areas. Pharmacies ("ljekarna") are generally well-stocked. Tap water is considered safe for drinking unless otherwise specified.

Croatia is a unitary multi-party parliamentary republic. The Prime Minister is the head of government and the president is the head of state. The Prime Minister and his ministers form the government and exercise executive power. The unicameral parliament (Sabor) exercises legislative power. Presidential elections take place once every five years while parliamentary elections take place once every four years. The judiciary is independent of the executive and the legislature.

Coalitions featuring a cross-section of political parties are typically required to form the government. Government collapses are rare. State institutions are competent and effective and provide reliable services across most of the country.