From 2008 to 2010, the Civil Society Index is being implemented once again by the Centre for Development of Non-Profit Organizations (CERANEO).
Building Identity: Future Challenegs for CSOs as professionals in the societal arena
As shown by the Croatia Civil Society Index diamond, the structure of civil society is fairly stable and moderately developed. The strongest dimension of civil society in Croatia is seen to be its level of organisation. The external environment is also assessed strongly, suggesting that there is a relatively enabling environment for civil society development.
The study shows however that the future development of civil society is endangered by low levels of citizens' participation. This is an important issue which needs to be addressed by greater promotion of civic virtues to the public, including through the education system.
Some of the recommendations made in the report for strengthening civil society in Croatia are to encourage CSOs to develop sustainable programmes for volunteers, and to push regional and local governments to establish transparent funding criteria, based on local development priorities. At the same time, civil society should be more proactive in promoting and advocating core values to the public, by working with the media as a partner. The expected implementation of EU policies and programmes, particularly in the fields of employment, social inclusion and regional development is seen as a significant opportunity to affirm civil society's position as an important stakeholder and to advance its role in society.
Croatia has also compiled their 2010 Policy Action Brief which serves as a guiding document to government, key constituencies and cicil society to take teh actions necessary to strengthen civil society and address weaknesses identified in the 2008-2011 CSI project.
CSI Country Reports in Croatia
- Croatia CSI Report (2008-2010): Full Report
- Croatia CSI Policy Action Brief 2011: PDF
- Croatia CSI Report (2003-2006): Executive Summary
- Croatia CSI Report (2003-2006): Full Report
- Project Evaluation for Croatia (2003-2006): Executive Summary
- Croatia CSI Preliminary Report (2001): Croatian Civil Society: On the Path to Becoming a Legitimate Public Actor.