Croatia is holding its presidential elections today, with polling stations across the country opening early Sunday morning. Voters will choose among eight candidates, including three women representing various political ideologies. Approximately 3.8 million Croatians are eligible to vote.
Incumbent President Zoran Milanović, backed by the opposition Social Democrats, is seeking a second term. His main challenger is Dragan Primorac, a former Minister of Science and the candidate for the ruling Croatian Democratic Union (HDZ).
According to analysts, the election campaign has been described as “dull and uninspiring,” though Milanović has consistently led in opinion polls. A recent survey published Friday by Nova TV Daily News put Milanović ahead with 37.2% support, followed by Primorac at 20.4%. Independent candidate Marija Selak Raspudić and Ivana Kekin from the leftist green party “We Can!” (Mozemo) each hold around 10% support.
If no candidate secures a majority, a second-round runoff will be held. Polling stations close at 7:00 PM local time, with exit poll results expected shortly after and preliminary results by 8:00 PM.
While the president’s role in Croatia is largely ceremonial, the head of state influences foreign policy, defense, and security. Milanović’s tenure has been marked by frequent clashes with Prime Minister Andrej Plenković over domestic and international policy issues.
The election results are anticipated to shape the country’s political landscape for the coming years.
