Pavliček Unites Croatian Towns for Vukovar Stadium Campaign

A nationwide fundraising campaign for a new stadium in Vukovar, named "12 Croatian Policemen," is gaining momentum, aiming to unite Croatian municipalities, cities, and counties regardless of their political affiliations. Vukovar Mayor Marijan Pavliček expressed optimism about the project's broad support, stating that nearly all local leaders he has approached have agreed to contribute.

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I think this will be one of the largest donation campaigns in the history of Croatia, in which municipalities, cities, and counties from all over Croatia will literally participate, which has not been the case so far.

Pavliček anticipates this will be one of Croatia's largest donation drives, with participation expected from across the country. He highlighted that the campaign's acceptance transcends political divides, underscoring Vukovar's recognized significance in the public consciousness. Local and regional governments are expected to allocate funds through budget revisions or new budgets in early 2026, with contributions varying based on financial capacity.

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I am especially pleased that the campaign has been accepted regardless of the political views of their leaders. This once again shows how much Vukovar and its sacrifice are recognized in the wider Croatian public.

The stadium, estimated to cost around 14 million euros, will feature 4,788 covered seats and will be built in Borovo Naselje on the site of the current HNK Vukovar 1991 stadium. The name "12 Croatian Policemen" commemorates the 12 police officers killed by Serb rebels in Borovo Selo in 1991. The initiative, "You are Vukovar too," is also seeing contributions from citizens, with donations ranging from ten to several hundred euros, and efforts are being made to engage the Croatian diaspora worldwide.

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So far, I have spoken with about 500 mayors, chiefs, and prefects, and no one has refused to participate. Of course, everyone will participate as much as they can.

Additionally, municipalities and cities in Bosnia and Herzegovina with Croatian leadership are expected to join the effort. The campaign also anticipates significant private donations, with one major contribution to be announced soon. This broad-based support, from local governments to individual citizens and international communities, aims to bring the stadium project to fruition.

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Primarily, it is about sports, and sports should not divide people according to political directions, but connect them.