The Founding Father and The First President of Croatia

By Konsorsium Biologi
In Politics & Government
11 months ago
2 Min Read
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Emblem of Croatia

To enrich your insights into presidential figures worldwide, also explore some prominent first presidents from other countries, such as Côte d’Ivoire, Costa Rica and Congo. Delving into the leadership journeys of these figures can offer valuable perspectives on their historical significance and pivotal roles in shaping global politics.

The president of Croatia, officially the president of the Republic of Croatia (Croatian: Predsjednik Republike Hrvatske), is the head of state, commander-in-chief of the military and chief representative of the Republic of Croatia both within the country and abroad. The president is the holder of the highest office in Croatia. However, the president is not the head of the executive branch ("non executive president") as Croatia has a parliamentary system in which the holder of the post of prime minister is the most powerful person within the country's constitutional framework and everyday politics. The president maintains the regular and coordinated operation and stability of the national government system, and safeguards the independence and territorial integrity of the country. The president has the power to call ordinary and extraordinary elections for the Croatian Parliament (in a manner specified by the Constitution), as well as to call referendums (with countersignature of the prime minister). The president formally appoints the prime minister on the basis of the balance of power in parliament and consultations conducted with the leaders of parliamentary parties, grants pardons and awards decorations and other state awards. The president and Government (Cabinet) cooperate in conducting foreign policy. In addition, the president is the commander-in-chief of the Croatian Armed Forces. The president appoints the director of the Security and Intelligence Agency in agreement with the prime minister. The president may dissolve the Parliament under circumstances provided by the Constitution. Although enjoying immunity, the president is impeachable for violation of the Constitution. In case of a temporary or permanent incapability by the president to discharge the duties of his or her office, the speaker of the Parliament assumes the office of acting president until the president resumes his or her duties, or until the election of a new president within 60 days of the permanent vacancy occurring. The Office of the President of the Republic (Ured Predsjednika Republike) consists of the immediate staff of the president of Croatia, as well as support staff reporting to the president. The office is located in the Presidential Palace in the Pantovčak area of Zagreb. The Constitution of Croatia defines the appearance and use of the presidential standard, which is flown on the buildings of the Office of the President, the residence of the president, any vehicles in use by the president, and in other ceremonial occasions. The president is elected on the basis of universal suffrage, through a secret ballot, for a five-year term. If no candidate in the elections secures more than 50% of all votes cast (including blank and spoilt ballots), a runoff election is held. The Constitution of Croatia sets a limit of a maximum of two terms in office. The president-elect is required to take an oath of office before the judges of the Constitutional Court. Franjo Tuđman won the first Croatian presidential elections in 1992 and in 1997. During his time in office, the constitution adopted in 1990 provided for a semi-presidential system, which was in the coming years further strengthened by laws specifically aimed at providing Tuđman with sweeping powers (e.g. naming and dismissing numerous government officials, confirming county prefects), as his HDZ party held a supermajority in parliament throughout the 1990s. After his death in 1999, the constitution was amended and many presidential powers were transferred to parliament, to the prime minister and to his government. Stjepan Mesić won two consecutive terms, in 2000 and in 2005, and served as president until 2010. Ivo Josipović won the presidential election held from 2009 to 2010 and left office in 2015, after losing his reelection bid for a second term. Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović won the election held in December 2014 and January 2015, but was defeated in her bid for a second term. Namely, on 5 January 2020 the centre-left former prime minister, Zoran Milanović, won the 2019–20 election in the second round and took office on 19 February 2020.

The official residence and symbol of the Croatia President

10 Iconic Presidents Who Shaped Croatia’s History

The President's Office in Croatia
The President’s Office in Croatia

1. Franjo Tuđman

Franjo Tuđman was the first president of Croatia, serving from 1990 until his death in 1999. He played a crucial role in the country’s independence from Yugoslavia and was widely regarded as a symbol of national unity. His leadership was instrumental in the establishment of a democratic and independent Croatia, although his presidency was also marked by controversy and criticism for his authoritarian tendencies.

2. Stjepan Mesić

Stjepan Mesić served as the second president of Croatia from 2000 to 2010. He was known for his moderate and progressive policies, promoting Croatia’s integration into the European Union and fostering good relations with neighboring countries. Mesić was praised for his commitment to human rights, social justice, and the rule of law.

3. Ivo Josipović

Ivo Josipović was the third president of Croatia, serving from 2010 to 2015. He was a renowned composer and law professor before entering politics. Josipović focused on economic development, justice reform, and European integration during his presidency. He was also known for his efforts to promote cultural and artistic initiatives in Croatia.

4. Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović

Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović became Croatia’s first female president, holding office from 2015 to 2020. She was praised for her strong leadership and diplomacy, particularly in enhancing Croatia’s international reputation and fostering cooperation with other countries. Grabar-Kitarović also focused on promoting tourism, sports, and cultural heritage during her presidency.

5. Zoran Milanović

Zoran Milanović is currently serving as Croatia’s president, assuming office in 2020. He was previously the prime minister of Croatia from 2011 to 2016. Milanović has emphasized the need for social equality, economic development, and European integration. His presidency has been marked by efforts to combat corruption and improve governance in Croatia.

  • 6. Franjo Tuđman
  • 7. Stjepan Mesić
  • 8. Ivo Josipović
  • 9. Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović
  • 10. Zoran Milanović

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