Zoran Milanović sworn in for second term as Croatia’s president

Zoran Milanović was sworn in for his second term as Croatia’s president on Monday, following a decisive victory in the country’s presidential election last month. The ceremony, held at the Presidential Palace in Zagreb, was attended by former presidents, military officials, and political and civil leaders. Notably absent were Parliament Speaker Gordan Jandroković and Prime Minister Andrej Plenković.

In his speech, Milanović stressed the importance of strengthening state institutions to ensure the peace and security of Croatian citizens. He called for legal and social reforms aimed at addressing corruption and injustice. Milanović also emphasized the need for improvements in education, healthcare, and the justice system, while acknowledging the ongoing economic challenges despite recent growth.

Milanović secured 74% of the vote in the second round of the election held on January 12. In the first round, held in December 2024, he won 49.1% of the vote, with his rival Dragan Primorac, of the ruling Croatian Democratic Union (HDZ), receiving 19.4%.

Born in 1966 in Zagreb, Milanović served in various diplomatic roles before becoming leader of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in 2008. He led the party to victory in 2011, serving as prime minister until 2016. He returned to the political stage in 2019, running for president as the SDP’s candidate.

Milanović’s second term will focus on strengthening Croatia’s democratic institutions and addressing the country’s economic challenges.