Swastika in the Heart of Zagreb: Spectacular Scandal or Dangerous Normalization of Hate?
Right in the heart of Zagreb, just a few meters from the statue of King Tomislav, a shocking scene unfolded – a swastika, the infamous symbol of fascism and hate, was drawn on gravel. The footage was published by the Antifascist Gazette, which sharply condemned the act and stated that the swastika is an integral part of an ideology some promote even from parliamentary podiums.
What exactly happened?
Last night, young men at Tomislavac drew a swastika, a symbol synonymous worldwide with fascism, hatred, and genocide. The Antifascist Gazette clearly stated in the video that this act sends a message to parliamentary deputies who promote an ideology linked to this symbol from the podium. Reactions from authorities, especially Interior Minister Davor Božinović, are awaited. Božinović has already been the target of sarcastic comments suggesting he might also admit the swastika is “spectacular.”
Reactions from authorities and society
Minister Božinović previously commented on similar incidents related to Marko Perković Thompson’s concert, where police isolated several cases involving illegal Ustaše symbols. Although the police promised to investigate all footage and offenses, many believe the reactions are not harsh enough and that such symbols are slowly becoming normalized in public spaces.
The political party Možemo announced plans to seek a legal ban on the Ustaše salute “Za dom spremni” and sanctions for displaying Ustaše symbols, especially after Thompson’s concert in Zagreb, where Ustaše songs were sung and banned symbols displayed. They warn that “Za dom spremni” is a salute confirmed by the Constitutional Court as Ustaše and is the foundation of an ideology of murder and extermination based on nationality, religion, or belief.
Why does this matter?
These incidents are not just vandalism – they are an alarming sign that hatred and fascist ideology are creeping back into public space and society. Croatia is a country born from the achievements of antifascist struggle, and antifascism must remain an active value and responsibility of every citizen. Normalizing such symbols and salutes leads to relativizing Ustaše crimes and spreading hatred.
What’s next?
While waiting for official reactions, it is clear society must remain vigilant and vocal against any attempts to rehabilitate fascist symbols and ideologies. Police and judicial bodies must effectively sanction such offenses, and politicians must clearly condemn any promotion of hate.
Meanwhile, if you have your own take on this scandal or think it’s time to finally put a stop to these phenomena, feel free to drop a comment. Who knows, maybe your word will spark a wave of reactions and change!
Remember: the swastika is not just a symbol from the past – it’s a warning for the present and future. Let’s be smarter and braver than those who want to bring hate back through the front door.
Sources: Index.hr, Tanjug, Jutarnji.hr, Možemo statement
