Feb 10 • 08:30 UTC 🇭🇷 Croatia Narod.hr

Vukelić: Moves by Možemo lead to segregation and discrimination

Historian Vlatka Vukelić criticized the ruling Možemo party in Zagreb for labeling dissenters as 'Ustaše,' suggesting this could pave the way for discrimination by local authorities.

Vlatka Vukelić, a historian, addressed the ruling Možemo party's practice of labeling citizens who do not share their views as 'Ustaše' on her social media. This particularly referred to a statement made by Ivana Kekin, a member of Možemo, signaling the need to counter 'Ustašism' in Zagreb. Vukelić raised concerns that such rhetoric could fuel discrimination against residents by local governance based on their beliefs and expressions of patriotism, such as singing national songs.

Vukelić queried whether this branding of citizens could lead to sanctions from city authorities. She posed critical questions about potential consequences for individuals found to sing patriotic songs in public—specifically, whether these individuals might be denied access to city services like enrolling their children in daycare or receiving municipal waste collection and potable water. Her commentary highlighted the dangers of equating national pride with extremism, warning that the lack of clear actions only allows for more ambiguity in what constitutes acceptable behavior.

Additionally, Vukelić's remarks shed light on the broader implications of such discriminatory practices in political discourse. The Možemo party is a parliamentary party, yet Vukelić's critique suggests a growing division within society and a potential erosion of civil liberties through labeling and shaming tactics. This situation raises significant questions about freedom of expression and the balance of power in democratic governance within Zagreb.

📡 Similar Coverage