Democracy is not only a system of governance but a framework through which human rights and civil liberties are protected, contested, and realized.
In Croatia, democratic institutions formally exist, yet public trust in political processes and representative bodies remains fragile. Human rights discourse is often marginalized, politicized, or delegitimized, while civic participation, particularly among young people, faces structural and cultural barriers. As a result, democratic processes risk becoming procedural rather than substantive, weakening accountability and the protection of fundamental rights. The Democracy Program addresses these challenges by strengthening the relationship between human rights, civic participation, and political representation. It focuses on reinforcing democratic culture through credible civic actors, rights-based engagement with institutions, and the active participation of young people in public life. By supporting initiatives that enhance legitimacy, accountability, and participation, the program seeks to ensure that democracy functions as a living system grounded in human rights and civil liberties.
Independent Human Rights Commission—There is today a strong need within Croatian civil society for a human rights organization that enjoys broad public credibility both among citizens and with institutional actors. Most civil society organizations that work on human rights have limited sectoral reputations and are often discredited in public discourse and by institutions. As a result, prominent intellectuals in Croatia, in discussions with YIHR Croatia have put forward the idea of establishing an Independent Human Rights Commission—a unique organization bringing together individuals with significant reputation in public life, such as former holders of the highest political offices (Heads of State, Prime Ministers, Government Ministers, Parliamentary leaders), distinguished university professors, leading religious figures, and other prominent public figures with notable achievements. With their experience and standing, they could play a key role in advancing human rights and civil liberties. This body could become an important and particularly influential voice for human rights and civil liberties within Croatian civil society and the public sphere. YIHR Croatia will therefore provide strategic support for the establishment and development of this Commission, acting as its technical secretariat so that it can focus on programmatic work without needing to build its own professional infrastructure and administrative capacity.
Student Union for Human Rights—YIHR Croatia has previously collaborated with student clubs and organizations, and students make up the majority of participants in its programs. At the same time, there are not enough organizations at Croatian universities that promote human rights. For this reason, during this strategic period, YIHR Croatia will work with a core group of students from several universities across the country to establish a Student Union for Human Rights. Supported technically by YIHR, this organization will host activities at universities enabling students to learn about human rights, connect with domestic and international human rights organizations, and engage in advocacy for the promotion and protection of human rights.