European Parliament approves €133M for projects in Croatia

The European Parliament adopted a report by MEP Željana Zovko on the agreement between EU countries and the European Economic Area (EEA), which will allocate €133.1 million to Croatia for social and development projects.

During the plenary session in Strasbourg, MEPs approved the Agreement between the European Union, Iceland, the Principality of Liechtenstein, and the Kingdom of Norway on the EEA Financial Mechanism, as well as the Agreement between Norway and the EU on the Norwegian Financial Mechanism for the period from May 2021 to April 2028. Additionally, two supplementary bilateral protocols on fish trade with Iceland and Norway were also confirmed, CE Report quotes HINA.

Under these agreements, the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) states participating in the EEA will provide a total of €3.268 billion to strengthen economic and social cohesion across Europe. Croatia, as one of 15 beneficiaries, will receive €133.1 million—marking a significant increase from the previous programme period.

The rapporteur and member of the European Parliament’s Committee on International Trade (INTA), Željana Zovko, welcomed the adoption of the report, highlighting its importance in securing funds for Croatia.

"I am particularly pleased that Croatian citizens will have access to €133.1 million to support initiatives in disaster prevention and emergency response, cultural projects, education, youth training and employment, local development, good governance, and social inclusion. In times of growing geopolitical challenges, it is crucial to strengthen cooperation with like-minded partners while simultaneously supporting our economies through innovation and investment," Zovko stated.

She added that she was pleased these funds would benefit local associations, civil protection communities, and civil society organisations, ultimately improving the lives of citizens across Croatia.

With the adoption of these agreements, Croatia enters its second cycle of participation in the EEA and Norwegian financial mechanisms, which began in 2014 following its accession to the EEA. Compared to the previous funding period (2014–2021), when Croatia was allocated €103.4 million, the new programme brings an increase of nearly €30 million, reflecting recognition of Croatia’s progress and capacity to effectively utilise EU funds.

“I am extremely proud of this major achievement for Croatia, the youngest member of the European Union. Investments from these funds will strengthen our local communities, boost economic development, and contribute to building an inclusive society,” Zovko concluded.