Croatia - Profile Updates

Croatia/ 4. Current issues in cultural policy development and debate

4.1 Main cultural policy issues and priorities

One of the key goals of the relected government is greater investment in a decentralisation of the cultural infrastructure.

 Croatia Chapter 41

Croatia/ 4.2 Recent policy issues and debates

4.2.5 Media pluralism and content diversity

The proposed new Law on Electronic Media was due to be passed in December 2009.

 Croatia Chapter 425

Croatia/ 4.2 Recent policy issues and debates

4.2.9 Heritage issues and policies

New university libraries were opened in Split and at the Faculty of Philosophy, University of Zagreb.

 Croatia Chapter 429

Croatia/ 5.1 General legislation

5.1.5 Tax laws

In 2009, the general VAT rate, which applies to all cultural goods and services (apart from books) was changed from 22% to 23%.

 Croatia Chapter 515

Croatia/ 5.3 Sector specific legislation

5.3.3 Cultural heritage

The Museums Law was amended in 2009 to provide special provisions regarding immaterial cultural heritage.

 Croatia Chapter 533

Croatia/ 6. Financing of culture

6.1 Short overview

The budget for culture in 2009 has been cut to below 2007 figures and salaries have been impacted by a 2-4% ‘crisis cut'. Sponsorship has also been hit.

 Croatia Chapter 61

Croatia/ 8.2 Cultural consumption and participation

8.2.1 Trends and figures

Between 2001 and 2008 the number of cultural associations rose from 2 174 to 5 032, partly attributed to changes in tax.

 Croatia Chapter 821

Croatia/ 8.3 Arts and cultural education

8.3.1 Arts education

Ministries cooperate to establish a university programme for ballet and contemporary dance due to start in autumn 2009.

 Croatia Chapter 831