Bagić: 'HDZ Has Similarities to the Former Party'. Ivković: That Model Isn't Exclusive to One Party

Večernji List's new Večernji TV format, 'Sve u 16,' hosted a robust discussion among its columnists on the complex question of who truly governs Croatia. The panel, featuring journalist Mirko Galić, historian Neven Budak, editor Žarko Ivković, and sociologist Dragan Bagić, delved into the interplay between politics, interest groups, and institutional autonomy.

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HDZ ima sličnosti s nekadašnjom Partijom

Sociologist Dragan Bagić offered a nuanced defense of lobbying as a democratic mechanism, provided it operates within established rules. However, he raised concerns about the increasing trend of political loyalty superseding merit in appointments to various institutions, a point echoed by Ivković, who noted that this practice is not confined to one party, citing examples across the political spectrum.

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Taj model nije rezerviran samo za jednu stranku

The conversation grew sharper when Bagić drew parallels between the ruling HDZ party and the former Communist Party ('Partija') in terms of their operational principles. This comparison, along with Budak's skeptical outlook on the possibility of depoliticizing Croatian institutions given the current political culture, underscores a deep-seated concern about the health and independence of the country's governance. The discussion highlights a critical local perspective on power structures and political patronage, suggesting that while external observers might focus on policy outcomes, the internal dynamics of party influence and institutional capture are central to understanding Croatian politics.

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Niti u Tuđmanovo vrijeme jedan pojedinac nije imao veću vlast nego što je danas ima Andrej Plenković.