Croatia will take foreign workers

Croatia's Interior Minister Davor Božinović said the country must rely more on foreign workers to fill ongoing shortages in its labor market. For this purpose, the country has planned to increase the number of migrant workers.

Croatia, a country dependent on tourism in Europe, is currently experiencing a severe labor shortage in various sectors.

The country's interior minister said, 'Croatia's tourism, construction and service sectors are largely dependent on the contribution and work of foreigners. They deserve the same safety and dignity as the rest of us.'

Davor Božinović made such comments after four foreign workers working in the city of Split were recently attacked.

Strongly condemning the attack on foreign workers, he said that the recent incident is shocking and worrying. The minister also mentioned that violence and discrimination against foreign workers will not be tolerated in any way.

The minister said Croatian citizens should set an example for immigrants of a society where every person can live and work without fear. The authorities will continue to provide assistance to those who are under threat.

Croatian authorities recently said they are working to relax laws and create rights for foreign workers.

Authorities said they are working in the interests of foreign workers to get the 60-day grace period even if their work contracts are terminated. During this period foreign workers will be able to find a new job in Croatia.

This measure is being put in place to prevent unfair treatment by employers towards foreign workers. In such a situation, even if the migrants are unemployed, they can look for a job without having to worry about leaving the country.

Besides, the government wants to increase the period of the first residence permit of foreign workers coming to the country from one year to three years.

MRM/ASM