Just when you thought you’ve seen it all, Marko Perković Thompson’s concert in Zagreb on July 5th proves otherwise! The European Commission has sparked a storm over the Ustaše symbols and the chant “Za dom spremni” (For the Homeland Ready) echoing from the stage and the crowd. Yes, you read that right — in the 21st century, in the heart of Europe, some still sing songs that remind us of the darkest chapters of our history.
An open letter published on Index.hr added fuel to the fire. Written by a man claiming to be Thompson’s fellow countryman, it expresses pain and disappointment that Thompson no longer sings his beloved wartime songs but instead divides the people and stirs up old wounds.
The European Commission made it clear: “We strongly condemn all expressions of fascism.” They reminded that hate speech, including public incitement to violence or hatred based on race, skin color, religion, or national or ethnic origin, is strictly prohibited and punishable in all EU member states.
But what happens when a concert, meant to be a place of entertainment, features symbols and slogans reminiscent of a fascist past? Is it just provocation or a dangerous game with national tensions?
As the public remains divided and politicians try to calm the storm, the question remains — how far is one artist and his audience willing to go? Will Europe and Croatia finally put a stop to such displays, or will history repeat itself?
If you’ve got thoughts on this chaos, or maybe a good joke about concerts that cause more scandals than music, feel free to drop a comment. Let the people’s voice be heard, because this isn’t just a concert — it’s a full-blown drama on stage!
