Zagreb

Goal

To promote Zagreb as an inclusive city where LGBTIQ+ persons enjoy equality, security, access to services, and visibility. The Programme aims to reduce discrimination, improve quality of life, and strengthen the institutional response to the needs of LGBTIQ+ citizens. 

Policy

The City of Zagreb has adopted the Programme for the Equality of LGBTIQ+ Persons for the Period Until the End of 2026, which represents a comprehensive local public policy framework. The Programme outlines measures across eight strategic areas: access to rights, social protection, healthcare, education and youth, safety and protection from discrimination, inclusive culture, institutional capacity-building, and inter-city and international cooperation. It is based on EU law and strategies, as well as Croatian national legislation. It aims to improve the living conditions of LGBTIQ+ people through structural changes, services, and public awareness.

Focus Areas

The City of Zagreb has supported LGBTIQ+ equality through funding and public support since the early 2000s. However, the first official Programme was adopted in 2024 with a planning horizon until 2026. Nonetheless, Zagreb has for years co-organized and funded Pride events and supported projects by LGBTIQ+ NGOs.

Short term (1 year): Public information campaigns; launching a municipal LGBTIQ+ information web section; organizing inclusive cultural and educational events; improving access to healthcare; co-organizing Pride events; and training for city staff. Long term (4 years): Institutionalising support for LGBTIQ+ inclusion; improving safety in public spaces; establishing an LGBTIQ+ cultural and community centre; sustained collaboration with NGOs; improved housing and social services for vulnerable LGBTIQ+ groups; and regional and international cooperation.

Collaboration partners

The City collaborates closely with numerous LGBTIQ+ civil society organisations (e.g., Zagreb Pride) through public calls for project funding. The BOJE (Colours) project at Psychiatric Clinic Sv. Ivan offers free mental health support to LGBTIQ+ individuals. The City also works with public health institutions to improve testing and access to STI prevention and care.

  • Schools, public health institutions (e.g., Andrija Štampar Institute), civil society organizations (CSOs) and police departements.