Conference on the Integration of Foreign Workers in Croatia

On Tuesday, June 10, 2025, a conference titled "We asked for workers. We got people instead." was held in Zagreb, organized by the Friedrich Ebert Foundation.

More than 50 participants from various sectors – including representatives of state institutions, trade unions, employers, civil society organizations, the academic community, and foreign workers themselves – gathered to collectively reflect on the challenges and opportunities related to the integration of an increasing number of foreign workers into Croatian society.

The conference opened with welcoming remarks from the organizers. Dr. Sonja Schirmbeck, Director of the Friedrich Ebert Foundation in Croatia and Slovenia, and project coordinator Bruno Korica emphasized the importance of connecting different stakeholders involved in integration processes. They highlighted that today's gathering demonstrates the knowledge, experience, and willingness that exist for building a more inclusive society.

Following the introductory session, a panel discussion was led by Iva Tadić from the Institute for Migration Research (IMIN), Sunčica Brnardić from the Union of Autonomous Trade Unions of Croatia (SSSH), Lucija Mulalić from the Centre for Peace Studies (CMS), and Giovanna La Gala from the organization Mladi u EU. The panelists shared insights on the integration of foreign workers from the perspectives of researchers, unions, and civil society organizations.

In the afternoon, participants independently formed thematic discussions focused on key challenges and needs related to integration, drawing on their own experiences and areas of expertise.

In conclusion, the need was emphasized for systematically raising public awareness about the importance of integration as a process that requires solidarity and open dialogue.