Biloglav on the migrant camp: 'It is enough to go to Bihać and see what it looks like'
Damir Biloglav voiced concerns about a planned migrant center in Željava, highlighting local opposition in Korenica and the issue of illegal migration in Croatia.
Damir Biloglav, representing the Dom and National Gathering party, addressed the announcement of a migrant center to be established at a former military complex in Željava, near Korenica. He pointed out that the local population has expressed significant concern regarding this development, emphasizing that only a visit to Bihać, a nearby city affected by migration, would illustrate the situation. Biloglav described a recent gathering of hundreds of locals in Korenica who are worried about the implications of having such a facility in their vicinity.
The proposed migrant center is set to begin with approximately 450 containers, aiming to accommodate around 1,500 migrants initially, with further phases remaining unspecified. Biloglav stressed that the establishment of this center reflects a larger issue of illegal migration within Croatia, which has been a growing concern among citizens. Local frustrations stem from fear over the center's potential impact on their community, as many residents feel unprepared for the influx of migrants that may occur.
Protests against the migrant center have already been initiated, indicating a strong local opposition to the project. Biloglav and other politicians underline the necessity for government action and public discourse to address the fears regarding the migrant situation in the country. As discussions continue, the government is urged to consider both humanitarian obligations and the concerns of local residents in their planning efforts.