Large union protest in Zagreb, demanding higher wages and pensions

(Patria) - Organized by the union centers SSSH, NHS, and MHS, as well as SUH, a protest titled "Croatia Together for Higher Wages and Pensions" was held in Zagreb. Several thousand citizens from all over Croatia demanded a fairer distribution of profits, lower food prices, more affordable housing, and a better standard of living.

The gathered participants carried banners such as "Stop the poverty tax" and "If prices have gone up, why hasn't our work?", along with union symbols and whistles. Union representatives stated that workers do not feel the GDP growth in their daily lives, but rather that an increasing portion of profits goes to employers.

It was highlighted that inflation in the last five years is around 28 percent, food prices have increased by 47 percent, and real estate by more than 60 percent, while wage growth significantly lags behind profit growth.

Union demands include a minimum wage of 1100 euros, an average wage of 2200 euros, and an average pension of 1100 euros. Particular concern was raised about the emigration of young people and the difficult situation of pensioners who often have to choose between basic life necessities such as food and medicine.