Tens of Thousands Protest in Zagreb Over Illegal Toxic Waste Dumping

Tens of thousands of people protested in Zagreb on Saturday to demand that the Croatian government take urgent action to remove illegal toxic waste. The demonstrations focused on a landfill near the town of Gospic in the Lika region, where between 30,000 and 37,000 tons of hazardous waste have been illegally stored. Protesters called for a new national waste management plan within 20 days, a temporary ban on waste imports, and the complete clearance of all illegal landfills.

An investigation involving Europol and Croatian authorities began in February 2025 with the arrest of 13 people. Investigators found that suspects likely forged documents to declare toxic hospital and plastic waste as recyclable to earn approximately 4 million euros. The waste reportedly originated from several European countries, primarily Italy, as well as Germany and Slovenia.

There is a conflict regarding the environmental impact of the site. Health authorities stated that drinking water in Gospic remains unaffected, but a report from prosecutors in August confirmed soil contamination that has spread beyond the site. Another assessment mentioned by Al Jazeera found PFAS chemicals in nearby groundwater. Environmental experts warned that the region's porous terrain could eventually carry pollutants toward the Adriatic Sea.

Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic, who leads a conservative government, visited the site last week and announced that a contractor has been hired for the first phase of cleanup. He promised the site would be covered by mid October. While center and center left reports focus on the government's perceived inaction and the scale of the pollution, center left coverage specifically highlights accusations of corruption and government cover ups. The Prime Minister has dismissed the criticism as an attempt by political rivals to exploit the scandal.