Initiatives, public advocacy, and promising demographic data highlight a successful month for Croatia’s large-family community.
Over the past several weeks, the Association Obitelji 3plus, the Croatian branch of ELFAC, has undertaken a series of initiatives aimed at promoting the value and dignity of large families. Through public communication efforts, national campaigns, and support for community engagement, the Association continues to highlight the essential role of families in strengthening the well-being of Croatian society.
Launch of Croatia’s Nomination for “European Large Family of the Year 2025”
A key milestone in November was the launch of the Croatian nomination process for ELFAC’s European Large Family of the Year 2025 Award. Families across the country were invited to share their stories, values, and experiences — many of which were deeply moving and inspiring. These submissions reflect the richness, diversity, and resilience of Croatian large families. A national jury will soon select the family that will represent Croatia in the competition for this prestigious European award.
Public Communication Regarding Conscientious Objection in Healthcare
In the field of public communication, Obitelji 3plus issued a statement supporting the medical staff at Petrova Maternity Hospital who exercised their right to conscientious objection. The Association emphasized that freedom of conscience is a fundamental human right and reminded the public of the immeasurable value that children offer to society. The message resonated strongly, gaining wide coverage from national media outlets and generating a generally positive public response.
Public Communication Regarding Conscientious Objection in Healthcare
In the field of public communication, Obitelji 3plus issued a statement supporting the medical staff at Petrova Maternity Hospital who exercised their right to conscientious objection. The Association emphasized that freedom of conscience is a fundamental human right and reminded the public of the immeasurable value that children offer to society. The message resonated strongly, gaining wide coverage from national media outlets and generating a generally positive public response.
Management Board Gathering at GLS Dinner Event
The month also provided an opportunity for the Association’s Management Board members to meet in an informal setting during the GLS Dinner Event. The gathering fostered meaningful discussions, allowed members to exchange ideas, and helped shape the direction of future advocacy efforts and family-policy initiatives in Croatia.
Positive Trends in National Demographic Data
Encouraging demographic results published in early November further fueled optimism. For the fourth consecutive month (June–September), Croatia recorded an increase in births—656 more newborns than in the same period last year, the equivalent of approximately 33 new kindergarten classes.
The Minister of Demography and Immigration, Mr. Ivan Šipić, noted that these trends confirm the effectiveness of family-oriented policies and the importance of ongoing investment in families, motherhood, and fatherhood.
Key measures contributing to this positive shift include:
- A parental allowance of up to €3,000 net
- Extended parental leave until a child’s eighth birthday
- Paternity leave of up to 20 days (or 30 days for twins)
- A one-time newborn allowance of €618
Notably, the number of fathers taking paternity leave has risen by 65% compared with the previous year—an encouraging sign of growing awareness of shared parenting and the vital role of fathers in family life.