The Croatian Ministry of Culture has allocated €5,500 to the LGBT association Domino for events related to queer art and activism in 2026, amid controversy surrounding the association's ties to the political party Možemo and investigations into financial misconduct.
The Croatian Ministry of Culture, led by Minister Nina Obuljen Koržinek, has decided to allocate a total of €5,500 to the LGBT association Domino under a funding decision for interdisciplinary and new artistic and cultural practices in 2026. This funding includes €3,500 for the 'Queer Zagreb Season 2026' and an additional €2,000 for the 'Perforations 2026' festival, which focuses on queer art and LGBTQ+ visibility. The association has garnered attention and criticism due to its affiliation with the political party Možemo and an ongoing investigation into alleged financial misconduct by its president, Zvonimir Dobrović.
The controversy surrounding this funding has ignited discussions regarding national pride and perceptions of patriotism within Croatian society. As the 'Queer Zagreb Season' festival is known for its provocative themes, including an incident in 2024 involving the destruction of the Croatian flag, opponents argue that such events undermine traditional values and national identity. Supporters, however, contend that this initiative fosters visibility for LGBTQ+ issues and promotes a more inclusive cultural landscape in Croatia.
As Croatia navigates through these cultural tensions, the government's funding decision reflects broader societal debates regarding the acceptance of LGBTQ+ identities and the role of art in challenging prevailing norms. The clash between progressive artistic endeavors and conservative political values underscores the complexity of contemporary Croatian society and the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ+ rights and recognition in the region.
