Leftwing activists, disappointed with SDP and other supposedly leftwing parties, decide to found a new political party.
New Left – Party for Democratization of Society and Sustainable Development was founded in Zagreb on Sunday. The founders said they would advocate for political programmes and projects aimed at every Croatian citizen to ensure their dignified life, social security and democratic rights, reports N1 on December 18, 2016.
The party was founded by leftwing activists and NGO representatives. Opening speech was given by women rights activist Rada Borić, who said they did not want to be scared anymore. “We will be persistent and determined to show that different kind of politics and policies are possible in Croatia, that we can all live a life of dignity. Everybody deserves to live without fear and with the respect for human rights of all”, said Borić. The founding conference was attended by members of the Croatian intellectual elite, activists and politicians, members of non-governmental organizations, scientists, writers, actors, artists and others.
Human rights activist Zoran Pusić pointed out that the New Left had deep roots in “that part of civil society which has consistently advocated for the creation of decent and more tolerant society in Croatia, without myths and prejudices, intolerance, fear and hatred”.
Historian Dragan Markovina said that militant nationalism which brings the possibility of the rehabilitation of the Ustasha movement, the growth of clericalism and stronger social divisions represent real threats to Croatian society and democratic processes. “New Left not only offers, but also asks for help from all those with similar opinions. It offers to voters a modern country where nationalism will not be one of the topics of conversation. We offer a country which will clearly position itself with regards to the Ustasha movement”, said Markovina.
Words of support to the new party were given by former Croatian President Ivo Josipović, Member of Parliament Goran Beus Richemberg (HNS), and president of the Serbian National Council Milorad Pupovac, who expressed hope in partnership with the new party, wishing it to leave a visible mark on the Croatian society.
