Imagine this scene: Zagreb turned into the stage for the biggest concert in Croatian history, headlined by the controversial singer Marko Perković Thompson. Around half a million tickets were sold, and tens of thousands gathered at the hippodrome. Police detained 44 people, mostly for using pyrotechnics! They confiscated 91 pieces of pyrotechnic devices, and 16 people sought medical help due to alcohol, allergies, and dehydration.
But it’s not that simple. Among the fans, some wore Ustaše symbols, sparking heated reactions. Police say they are acting according to the law and don’t want to label hundreds of thousands of people because of isolated cases. Still, the question remains — how do symbols reminiscent of a dark past appear at such an event?
Organizers announced a patriotic musical spectacle, with retired bishop Ante Ivas expected to join on stage. T-shirts with Thompson’s image and lyrics, along with Croatian flags, dominated the crowd. Is this a celebration of culture or a spark for division?
Police deployed over 600 officers, 70 firefighters, 26 emergency medical teams, and other rescue units. Parts of the city were closed off, and security was tight. But is the price of this spectacle too high?
This concert is not just a musical event but a mirror of social tensions in Croatia. Is it time to finally face the past, or will we keep burying our heads in the sand? Share your thoughts — maybe you have the answer to this burning question!
