Croatia
- Boundary Delimitation
- Direct Democracy
- Electoral Management
- Electoral Systems
- Legislative Framework
- Media and Elections
- Parties and Candidates
- Vote Counting
- Voter Education
- Voting Operations
- Voter Registration
Boundary Delimitation
BD01 Are constituencies delimited for election purposes?
a. Yes
Source: Electoral Code, article 39. Law on Electoral precincts.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 10:57:28 GMT
BD02 The authority responsible for final approval of the constituency boundaries is:
a. The legislature (national/subnational)
Source: Electoral Code, article 39. Law on electoral precincts.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 10:58:08 GMT
BD03 On what criteria are the boundaries drawn?
a. "Equality" of population
d. Conformity with local jurisdiction boundaries
Comments: d) By law and in order to define the electoral precincts, the areas of counties, cities and municipalities must be taken into account.
Source: Electoral Code, article 39.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:02:30 GMT
BD04 If population is a criterion, which population figure is used?
c. Number of registered voters
Source: Electoral Code, article 39 (paragraph 1).
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:03:19 GMT
BD05 The body responsible for drawing the boundaries is:
a. Legislature (specify chamber)
Source: Electoral Code, article 39.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:03:54 GMT
BD06 What statistical or other reasons trigger the redrawing of electoral constituency boundaries?
c. Changes in numbers of registered voters
f. Changes in distribution of registered voters
g. Changes in administrative boundaries
Comments: Electoral Code, article 39.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:04:41 GMT
Direct Democracy
DD02 Which forms of direct democracy, if any, are currently possible at the national level?
Please check the glossary for the definition of the following terms:
a. Mandatory referendum
b. Optional referendum
c. Citizens' initiative
e. Recall
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 16:54:45 UTC
DD03 What is the legal basis for mandatory referendums at the national level?
a. Constitutional
b. Specific laws/legislation
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 16:55:17 UTC
DD04 What is the legal basis for optional referendums at the national level?
b. Specific laws/legislation
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 16:55:34 UTC
DD05 What is the legal basis for citizens' initiatives at the national level?
b. Specific laws/legislation
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 16:55:48 UTC
DD07 What is the legal basis for recalls at the national level?
a. Constitutional
b. Specific laws/legislation
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 16:56:52 UTC
DD08 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for mandatory referendums at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
a. Constitutional
b. Specific laws/legislation
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 16:57:39 UTC
DD09 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for optional referendums at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
a. Constitutional
b. Specific laws/legislation
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 16:57:54 UTC
DD10 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for citizens' initiatives at the national level?
Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
b. Specific laws/legislation
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 16:58:12 UTC
DD102 What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a referendum?
a. All signatures checked
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:24:34 UTC
DD103 What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a citizens' initiative?
d. Not applicable
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:25:06 UTC
DD104 What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a recall?
d. Not applicable
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:25:32 UTC
DD105 Who is responsible for checking the signatures?
b. Another government department (specify)
c. Local authorities
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:25:48 UTC
DD106 Which organisation(s), if any, is responsible for running non-partisan information or voter education campaigns to inform voters about the issue being addressed in a referendum?
f. Other (specify)
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:26:09 UTC
DD107 Which organisation(s), if any, is responsible for running non-partisan information or voter education campaigns to inform voters about the issue being addressed in an initiative?
f. Other (specify)
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:26:56 UTC
DD108 Which organisation(s), if any, is responsible for running non-partisan information or voter education campaigns to inform voters about the issue being addressed in a recall?
f. Other (specify)
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:27:38 UTC
DD109 What activities, if any, are undertaken as part of non-partisan information or voter education campaigns for a referendum?
a. Information booklets
b. Leaflets and pamphlets
c. Radio broadcasts
d. TV broadcasts
e. Press advertisements
f. Website
Comments: These action are being taken only by NGOs.
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:28:44 UTC
DD110 What activities, if any, are undertaken as part of non-partisan information or voter education campaigns for an initiative?
a. Information booklets
b. Leaflets and pamphlets
c. Radio broadcasts
d. TV broadcasts
e. Press advertisements
f. Website
Comments: These action are being taken only by NGOs.
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:29:45 UTC
DD111 What activities, if any, are undertaken as part of non-partisan information or voter education campaigns for a recall?
a. Information booklets
b. Leaflets and pamphlets
d. TV broadcasts
e. Press advertisements
f. Website
Comments: These action are being taken only by NGOs.
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:30:29 UTC
DD112 Which of the following controls, if any, apply in relation to campaigning for or against the issue being addressed in a referendum?
g. None
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:31:51 UTC
DD113 Which of the following controls, if any, apply in relation to campaigning for or against the issue being addressed in an initiative?
g. None
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:31:35 UTC
DD114 Which of the following controls, if any, apply in relation to campaigning for or against the issue being addressed in a recall?
g. None
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:32:30 UTC
DD115 What is the period during which these controls apply for a referendum?
b. Other (specify)
Comments: none
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:33:04 UTC
DD116 What is the period during which these controls apply for an initiative?
b. Other (specify)
Comments: none
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:33:31 UTC
DD117 What is the period during which these controls apply for a recall?
b. Other (specify)
Comments: none
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:34:07 UTC
DD118 Which campaigners, if any, are entitled to some forms of public assistance for a referendum? Specify in the “Comments” section below.
d. No campaign organisations
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:34:26 UTC
DD119 Which campaigners, if any, are entitled to some forms of public assistance for an initiative? Specify in the “Comments” section below.
d. No campaign organisations
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:34:41 UTC
DD12 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for recalls at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
a. Constitutional
b. Specific laws/legislation
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 16:58:33 UTC
DD120 Which campaigners, if any, are entitled to some forms of public assistance for a recall? Specify in the “Comments” section below.
d. No campaign organisations
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:35:07 UTC
DD121 Which forms of public assistance, if any, are provided for a referendum?
Specify in the “Comments” section below.
f. None
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:35:24 UTC
DD122 Which forms of public assistance, if any, are provided for an initiative?
Specify in the “Comments” section below.
f. None
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:35:43 UTC
DD123 Which forms of public assistance, if any, are provided for a recall?
Specify in the “Comments” section below.
f. None
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:35:58 UTC
DD124 If free media access is provided, what are the criteria for allocating broadcast time / printing space?
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:36:17 UTC
DD125 Is the government permitted to campaign either in favour of or against any specific outcome to a referendum, initiatives or recall vote?
a. Yes
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:36:32 UTC
DD126 What restrictions or controls, if any, are there on media coverage of the campaign and/or issue during the relevant period?
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:36:48 UTC
DD13 When were direct democracy mechanisms first introduced into the legal framework at the national level?
Date (yyyy)
a. Mandatory referendum 1991
b. Optional referendum 1991
c. Citizens' initiative 1991
e. Recall 1991
Comments: Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 16:59:25 UTC
DD14 When was an administrative framework for direct democracy mechanisms first introduced at the national level? Date (yyyy)
a. Mandatory referendum 1991
b. Optional referendum 1991
c. Citizens' initiative 1991
e. Recall 1991
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:00:17 UTC
DD15 Who is responsible for managing the administration of direct democracy mechanisms at the national level?
a. Government (specify department)
d. Legislature
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:00:42 UTC
DD16 Does this agency/department also manage the administration of national elections?
b. No
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:00:55 UTC
DD17 Are mandatory referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
a. Yes, in all regions/states/provinces
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:01:24 UTC
DD18 Are optional referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
b. Yes, in some regions/states/provinces
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:01:48 UTC
DD19 Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
a. Yes, in all regions/states/provinces
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:02:10 UTC
DD20 Are agenda initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
d. Not applicable
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:02:27 UTC
DD21 Are recalls currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
a. Yes, in all regions/states/provinces
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:02:49 UTC
DD22 Are mandatory referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
d. Not applicable
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:04:20 UTC
DD23 Are optional referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
a. Yes, in all municipalities/districts/communes
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:04:37 UTC
DD24 Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
a. Yes, in all municipalities/districts/communes
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:04:56 UTC
DD26 Are recalls currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
a. Yes, in all municipalities/districts/communes
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:05:31 UTC
DD27 What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are mandatory at the national level?
d. National sovereignity, national self-determination
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:05:50 UTC
DD28 What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are optional at the national level?
a. Constitutional amendments
b. Adoption of international treaties
h. Taxes and public expenditure commitments
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:06:15 UTC
DD29 Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of referendums at the national level?
c. Transfer of authority to international bodies
e. Conflict between constitutional organs
g. Civil service
h. Taxes and public expenditure commitments
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:06:43 UTC
DD30 Which issues, if any, maybe the subject of sub-national referendums regulated at the national level?
b. Creation/merger/abolition of sub-national authorities
c. Other public policy issues
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:07:04 UTC
DD31 Who can initiate a referendum at the national level?
a. Government
c. President
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:07:28 UTC
DD32 Who is responsible for drafting the mandatory referendum question?
b. Independent electoral commission
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:08:17 UTC
DD33 Who is responsible for drafting the optional referendum question?
b. Independent electoral commission
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:08:45 UTC
DD34 Which of the following, if any, are required to be included in the mandatory referendum question?
a. The title of the proposal
c. An explanatory text
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:09:10 UTC
DD35 Which of the following, if any, are required to be included in the optional referendum question?
a. The title of the proposal
c. An explanatory text
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:09:26 UTC
DD36 Which institution(s) decides on the final form of the ballot text for mandatory referendums?
b. Independent electoral commission
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:09:43 UTC
DD37 Which institution(s) decides on the final form of the ballot text for optional referendums?
b. Independent electoral commission
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:09:58 UTC
DD38 What, if any, are the quorum requirements for a mandatory referendum to be valid? Please specify numbers/percentages.
c. No quorum required x
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:10:16 UTC
DD39 What, if any, are the quorum requirements for a optional referendum to be valid? Please specify numbers/percentages.
c. No quorom required x
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:10:37 UTC
DD40 What are the requirements for mandatory referendums to pass?
b. Qualified majority (specify % below)
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:10:54 UTC
DD41 What are the requirements for optional referendums to pass?
b. Qualified majority (specify % below)
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:11:09 UTC
DD42 In which areas, if any, do regulatory provisions differ between a referendum and a national election?
Tick all that apply and specify below in the comments section.
f. Other
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:11:31 UTC
DD43 When is the outcome of a mandatory referendum binding?
a. Always
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:11:48 UTC
DD44 When is the outcome of an optional referendum binding?
c. Never
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:12:06 UTC
DD45 Which types of issues can be proposed by citizens using the citizens' initiative process at the national level?
c. Other (specify)
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:12:23 UTC
DD46 Which types of issues can be proposed by citizens using the agenda initiative process at the national level?
c. Other (specify)
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:12:42 UTC
DD47 Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of a citizens' initiative at the national level?
a. Constitutional amendments
b. Adoption of international treaties
c. Transfer of authority
e. Conflict between constitutional organs
h. Taxes and public expenditure commitments
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:13:14 UTC
DD48 Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of an agenda initiative at the national level?
a. Constitutional amendments
b. Adoption of international treaties
c. Transfer of authority
e. Conflict between constitutional organs
h. Taxes and public expenditure commitments
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:13:34 UTC
DD49 Who may propose the registration of a citizens' initiative?
Please specify in the “Comments” section below.
c. Other (specify)
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:13:51 UTC
DD50 Who may propose the registration of an agenda initiative?
Please specify in the “Comments” section below.
c. Other (specify)
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:14:06 UTC
DD51 What material is necessary to accompany an application for registration?
d. Other (specify)
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:14:33 UTC
DD52 Who determines the title of a citizens' initiative?
e. Other (specify)
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:14:59 UTC
DD53 Who determines the title of an agenda initiative?
e. Other (specify)
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:15:19 UTC
DD54 Which, if any, of the following disqualify a proposed title of an initiative?
g. Other (specify)
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:15:47 UTC
DD55 Which services are provided by the agency/department responsible for the administration of direct democracy mechanisms before an initiative can be published?
d. Other (specify)
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:16:05 UTC
DD56 Under what circumstances is an initiative checked for constitutionality or legality?
c. Other (specify)
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:16:27 UTC
DD57 If a check of the constitutionality or legality of an initiative takes place, who is responsible for undertaking it?
f. Other (specify)
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:16:42 UTC
DD58 If a check of the constitutionality or legality of an initiative takes place, when does this happen?
e. Other (specify)
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:16:58 UTC
DD59 Which institutions, if any, are given an opportunity to propose an alternative to proposals contained in a citizens’ initiative?
a. Government
c. President
d. Legislature
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:17:50 UTC
DD60 At which stage in the initiative process, if at all, can alternative proposals be made?
d. Not at all
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:18:07 UTC
DD61 What happens when there is a valid alternative proposal?
d. Other (specify)
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:18:26 UTC
DD62 When an initiative proposal and an alternative proposal are put to the vote on the same day, what choices does the voter have?
e. Other (specify)
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:18:48 UTC
DD63 Who decides the final ballot text?
e. Other (specify)
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:19:08 UTC
DD64 Once an initiative is qualified for the ballot, the vote on it takes place:
c. Other (specify)
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:19:34 UTC
DD65 Which of the following individuals/positions may be subject to the recall mechanism?
b. President
c. Other national level elected executive positions
d. National level appointed executive positions
e. Members of provincial / local legislature bodies
f. Governors, Mayors or equivalent
g. Other provincial/local level elected executive positions
h. Provincial/local level appointed executive positions
i. Elected judges
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:20:17 UTC
DD66 What are the grounds upon which a recall may be launched?
a. Political or policy grounds
b. Indictment
c. Conviction
d. Moral turpitude
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:20:39 UTC
DD67 What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to the time period in which an individual/position can be recalled?
a. An individual can't perform his/her duties
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:22:00 UTC
DD68 If a recall qualifies for the ballot, when is it put to the vote?
c. Other (specify)
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 17:22:32 UTC
Electoral Management
EM01 Please provide the following contact information for the national electoral management body:
a. Name of Institution State Election Commission
c. Telephone 385 1 48 62 201
d. Facsimile 385 1 4810 035
e. Email vsrh@vrsrh.hr
g. Name and Title of Chairperson/President Ivica Crnic, President of the Supreme Court
h. Information Officer Branco Hrvatin, Deputy member of the State Election Commission/judge
i. Official language of the electoral law governing national elections Croatian
Source: www.croatiaemb.org/politics/vote2000/120999.htm
Last updated: Wed, 28 Aug 2002 14:48:23 GMT
EM02 Does this national electoral body have the responsibility for elections at:
a. National level
b. Regional level
c. Local level
Source: Electoral Code, articles 53 to 57.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 10:45:19 GMT
EM03 The national electoral management body reports to:
f. Other
Comments: f) State election board shall announce in the media the entire report on the amount of election expenses and on the ways of implementation within 30 days from announcing official voting figures.
Source: Electoral Code, article 95 (paragraph 3).
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 10:47:47 GMT
EM04 The budget of the national electoral management body is determined by:
c. The legislature
Source: Electoral Code, article 95 (paragraph 1).
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 10:51:45 GMT
EM05 The expenditures of the national electoral management body are controlled by:
g. Other
Comments: g) State election board will announce in public media the entire report on amount of election expenses and ways of implementation within 30 days from announcing official voting figures.
Source: Electoral Code, article 95.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 10:52:28 GMT
EM06 The term of the members of the national electoral management body is:
a. For the election period only
Source: Electoral Code, articles 53 to 55.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 10:53:23 GMT
EM07 The national electoral management body chairperson, or equivalent, is chosen in the following way:
g. Other
Comments: The president of the Supreme Court is the ex officio, by position, without any precedure, appointment or election, by the fact, that he is the president of the Supreme Court, he or she pernorns the duties of the chairperson of the State Election Commission.
Source: Electoral Code, article 53 paragraph (3)
Last updated: Wed, 28 Aug 2002 14:55:36 GMT
Electoral Systems
ES01 How is the Head of State selected?
c. Directly elected in general elections (absolute majority with 2nd round if necessary)
Source: Constitution, article 94.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 10:06:24 GMT
ES02 How is the Head of Government selected?
c. Indirectly elected by legislature/chosen by parliament
Source: Constitution, article 109.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 10:07:01 GMT
ES03 Does the country have a president?
a. Yes
Source: Constitution, article 93.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 10:07:24 GMT
ES04 The national legislature consists of (one/two chambers):
a. One chamber
Source: Constitution, articles 70 and 71.
Last updated: Thu, 12 Sep 2002 14:01:03 GMT
ES05 What is the electoral system for Chamber 1 of the national legislature?
g. List Proportional Representation
Source: Electoral Code, article 40.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 10:08:24 GMT
ES06 What is the electoral system for Chamber 2 of the national legislature?
k. The national legislature consists of one chamber only
Source: Constitution, articles 70 and 71.
Last updated: Thu, 12 Sep 2002 14:02:12 GMT
ES07 If List PR is used, is a highest average formula used?
a. d'Hondt Formula
Source: Electoral Code, article 40.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 10:10:39 GMT
ES08 What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 1?
b. Specially delimited constituencies
c. Regional/provincial level
Comments: b) (1) Special constituency for Croatian citizens living abroad; (2) special constituency for ethnic minorities.
Source: Electoral Code, articles: 16, 17, 38 and 46.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 10:12:59 GMT
ES09 What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 2?
d. Not applicable
Comments: The national legislature consists of only one chamber.
Source: Constitution, articles 70 and 71.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 10:13:52 GMT
ES10 Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 1 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
a. Yes
Comments: (1) Special constituency for Croatian citizens living abroad; (2) special constituency for ethnic minorities.
Source: Electoral Code, articles: 16, 17, 38 and 46.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 10:15:28 GMT
ES11 If special constituencies or seats are reserved in Chamber 1, specify which interest groups, and the proportion of total seats reserved for:
a. Nationality or ethnic groups - proportion of total seats (%) 3,33%
d. Other- proportion of total seats (%) 3,97%
Comments: Other: The representatives of the special constituency for Croatian citizens living abroad is determined by the average nation-wide price of a mandate allocated through the in-country constituencies. On the last elections it resulted in 6 mandates which are 3,97% of the whole.
Source: Electoral Code, articles: 16, 17, 38 and 46.
Last updated: Thu, 12 Sep 2002 14:03:48 GMT
ES12 Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 2 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
c. The national legislature consists of one chamber only
Source: Constitution, articles 70 and 71.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 10:17:59 GMT
ES13 If special constituencies or seats are reserved in Chamber 2, specify which interest groups, and the proportion of total seats reserved:
e. Not applicable X
Comments: The national legislature only consists of one chamber.
Source: Constitution, articles 70 and 71.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 10:20:04 GMT
ES14 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 1?
b. Specify the percentage:
Comments: 5%
Source: Electoral Code, article 41.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 10:20:55 GMT
ES15 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 2?
c. Not applicable
Comments: The national legislature only consists of one chamber.
Source: Constitution, articles 70 and 71.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 10:21:23 GMT
ES16 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 1?
c. Not applicable
Comments: Only electoral lists take part in elections.
Last updated: Wed, 07 Aug 2002 13:34:22 GMT
ES17 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 2?
c. Not applicable
Comments: The national legislature only consists of one chamber.
Source: Constitution, articles 70 and 71.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 10:22:46 GMT
ES18 Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 1, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
a. At fixed intervals (specify length)
c. On a fixed day of the week (specify day, specify if holiday)
Comments: a: Every four years. c: A non-working day.
Source: Constitution, articles 72 and 73., Electoral Code Article 5. Paragraph (3)
Last updated: Wed, 28 Aug 2002 10:47:54 GMT
ES19 Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 2, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
e. Not applicable
Comments: The national legislature only consists of one chamber.
Source: Constitution, articles 70 and 71.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 10:24:51 GMT
ES20 Regarding Chamber 1 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
a. Voting takes place on one day
Comments: In diplomatic and consular offices voting takes place in two days, being the second day the same as the voting day in the Republic of Croatia.
Source: Electoral Code, articles 5 and 80.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 10:28:19 GMT
Legislative Framework
LF01 What is the status of the electoral law governing national elections?
a. Part of Constitution
b. Separate legislation
c. Decree
d. Regulations or administrative rules
Comments: c) The government is entitled to set the amount for reimbursement of costs for election campaign by special decision. d) State Electoral Body states obligatory instructions for functioning of election boards; designates polling places in Croatian diplomatic and consular representative bodies; prescribes forms in relation to the procedure of preparation and of management of elections.
Source: Constitution. Electoral Code, articles 34 and 56. Rules of Procedure for the Croatian Radio and Television. Law on Political Parties.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 10:34:09 GMT
LF02 What is the date of the latest version of the national electoral law (including latest amendments)?
a. January 2000 or later
Source: www.ksg.harvard.edu/kokkalis/region_croatia.html, jurist.law.pitt.edu/world/croatia.htm Law amending the Electoral Code, 2001.
Last updated: Wed, 28 Aug 2002 10:55:32 GMT
LF03 The national electoral law covers:
a. National elections
Source: Electoral Code, article 1.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 10:36:18 GMT
LF04 Is voting on the national level voluntary or compulsory?
a. Voting is voluntary
Source: Electoral Code, article 3 (paragraph 4).
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 10:37:02 GMT
LF05 Are there provisions in the law which permit or require regional and/ or local election (s) to be held on the same day as national elections?
a. National elections are not held on the same day as regional or local elections
Comments: There is no legal provision concerning the connection of the two elections.
Source: Electoral Code
Last updated: Wed, 07 Aug 2002 14:14:20 GMT
LF06 Are there provisions in the law which permit or require presidential election (s) to be held on the same day as national legislative elections?
a. Presidential elections are not held on the same day as national legislative elections
Source: Constitution, articles 72 and 94.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 10:39:08 GMT
LF07 What are the agency(ies) responsible for first level of formal electoral disputes?
a. Judiciary
b. EMB
Comments: a) Constitutional Court.
Source: Electoral Code, articles 96 to 102.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 10:39:58 GMT
LF08 If the agency(ies) which settles formal disputes is/are specially appointed/elected; by whom?
h. Not applicable
Comments: The agency(ies) which settles formal disputes is/are not specially appointed/elected.
Source: Electoral Code, articles 96 to 102.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 10:41:04 GMT
LF09 Who has the right to submit cases to the person or agency(ies)which settles formal disputes?
a. Candidates
b. Parties
c. Voters
Comments: c) 100 voters or 5% of the voters in the constituency.
Source: Electoral Code, articles 96 to 102.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 10:42:04 GMT
Media and Elections
ME01 Please provide information about the person completing the questionnaire.
Last updated: 2007-02-15 10:07:19 UTC
ME02 Which of the following types of radio stations are present at a national level in your country?
a. Publicly owned
c. Privately owned
Source: www.ejc.nl/jr/emland/croatia.html, (European Journalist Centre, European Media Landscape) Decision on the promulgation of the law on telecommunications (hereinafter: Law on telecommunications)
Last updated: 2005-11-14 15:42:58 UTC
ME03 Which of the following types of television stations are present at a national level in your country?
a. Publicly owned
c. Privately owned
Source: www.ejc.nl/jr/emland/croatia.html, (European Journalist Centre, European Media Landscape) Decision on the promulgation of the law on telecommunications (hereinafter: Law on telecommunications)
Last updated: 2005-11-14 15:43:13 UTC
ME04 Which of the following types of daily and weekly newspapers are present at a national level in your country?
a. Publicly owned
c. Privately owned
Source: www.ejc.nl/jr/emland/croatia.html, (European Journalist Centre, European Media Landscape) Decision on the promulgation of the law on telecommunications (hereinafter: Law on telecommunications)
Last updated: 2005-11-14 15:43:33 UTC
ME05 Which of the following do you believe best describes the print media situation at the national level in your country?
d. No government newspaper: competition between two or more major private newspapers
Source: www.ejc.nl/jr/emland/croatia.html
Last updated: 2005-11-14 15:44:03 UTC
ME06 What proportion of the population can receive transmissions of the national level programming of private radio stations?
a. Over 60%
Comments: No answer and relevant information on this question could been found. Since Croatia is not less developed, than the other Central- European countries, I marked over 60%, which is, I think, quite believable considering the overall media situation in these countries.
Last updated: 2005-11-14 15:44:27 UTC
ME08 What proportion of the population can receive transmissions of the national level programming of private television stations?
a. Over 60%
Comments: No answer and relevant information on this question could been found. Since Croatia is not less developed, than the other Central- European countries, I marked over 60%, which is, I think, quite believable considering the overall media situation in these countries.
Last updated: 2005-11-14 15:45:13 UTC
ME09 In your opinion, which of the following types of media in your country have a public reputation for being independent?
b. Private radio
e. Print media
Comments: : Both private and national television tend to fall under the influences of all kinds people and institutions. National television and radio are usually influenced by the government, although this influence is dropping. Commercial televisions are under the influence of their owners who usually have close relationships with politicians.
Source: Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 15:48:06 UTC
ME11 What laws, if any, guarantee freedom of access to public information for representatives of the media?
a. a
Comments: The content and schedule ofn sponsored programs may under no circumstances be influenced by the sponsor in a way such as to affect the responsibility and editorial independence of the Concessionaire in respect to the programs Law on telecommunications
Source: www.ijnet.org
Last updated: 2005-11-14 15:48:46 UTC
ME13 What are the laws, if any, which govern the operations of the public broadcaster?
Specify the date of the latest version (including latest amendments)
a. L
Comments: Since actual translations of the Croatian law usually cant be found on Internet, the date of the version on Internet had been given. It is not sure, that these are the latest versions
Source: www.ijnet.org
Last updated: 2007-02-15 10:07:19 UTC
ME14 What proportion of the population can receive transmissions of the national level programming of the public television stations?
a. Over 60%
Comments: No answer and relevant information on this question could been found. Since Croatia is not less developed, than the other Central- European countries, I marked over 60%, which is, I think, quite believable considering the overall media situation in these countries.
Last updated: 2005-11-14 15:52:45 UTC
ME15 What proportion of the population can receive transmissions of the national level programming of the national level programming of the public radio stations?
a. Over 60 %
Comments: No answer and relevant information on this question could been found. Since Croatia is not less developed, than the other Central- European countries, I marked over 60%, which is, I think, quite believable considering the overall media situation in these countries.
Last updated: 2005-11-14 15:53:06 UTC
ME16 In your opinion, upon which types of media at national level in your country do citizens most rely as a source of information? Mark the most important source with 1, and the second most important source with 2:
a. Public radio
c. Private radio
d. Public television
f. Private television
g. Print media
Comments: a:4, c:5, d:1, f:2, g:3
Source: Mr Damir Azenic,GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 15:55:03 UTC
ME17 In your opinion, which of the following types of media in your country have a public reputation for being independent?
b. Private radio
e. Print media
Comments: Both private and national television tend to fall under the influences of all kinds people and institutions. National television and radio are usually influenced by the government, although this influence is dropping. Commercial televisions are under the influence of their owners who usually have close relationships with politicians. Comment of Mr. Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2007-02-15 10:07:19 UTC
ME18 What are the laws, if any, that provide for the safeguards for editorial autonomy in relation to the public broadcaster(s)?
a. a
Comments: The content and schedule ofn sponsored programs may under no circumstances be influenced by the sponsor in a way such as to affect the responsibility and editorial independence of the Concessionaire in respect to the programs Law on telecommunications
Source: www.ijnet.org
Last updated: 2007-02-15 10:07:19 UTC
ME19 What are the laws, if any, which govern the granting of broadcasting licenses/frequencies to private broadcasters?
a. L
Source: www.ijnet.org
Last updated: 2007-02-15 10:07:19 UTC
ME20 Who grants licenses/frequencies to private broadcasters?
b. Independent regulator
Comments: Public Tel Network Operator
Source: Law on telecommunications
Last updated: 2005-11-14 15:58:39 UTC
ME21 Who is allowed to hold broadcasting licenses?
b. Private companies
c. Non governmental organisations
d. Foreigners
g. Other
Source: Law on telecommunications
Last updated: 2005-11-14 15:59:24 UTC
ME22 What are the legal conditions, if any, under which the activities of a media outlet may be suspended?
Last updated: 2007-02-15 10:07:19 UTC
ME23 Are any journalists currently imprisoned or facing criminal charges for exercising their profession?
b. No
Source: www.ejc.nl/jr/emland/croatia.html
Last updated: 2005-11-14 15:59:55 UTC
ME24 What legal instruments are used to regulate media coverage of elections?
a. Law
b. Secondary legislation (e.g. regulations)
Comments: The State election commission issues Obligatory instructions prior to elections in order to regulate media coverage. The law also insures equal media presence for all the parties or candidates
Source: Mr Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 16:00:38 UTC
ME25 Which of the following bodies or agencies has a responsibility in the regulation of media coverage of elections?
a. Statutory regulator (e.g. broadcasting licensing body)
b. Voluntary regulator (e.g. media council, journalists' ethics committee)
g. EMB by law or regulations
Source: Act on election of representatives to the Croatian Parliament
Last updated: 2005-11-14 16:01:20 UTC
ME26 What form does the responsibility, if any, of the EMB to regulate media coverage of elections take?
b. Requiring balance in media news coverage of an election
c. Placing limits on when the media may report about an election
Source: Act on election, Law on telecommunications
Last updated: 2005-11-14 16:01:42 UTC
ME27 Does the EMB monitor media coverage of elections?
a. Yes
Source: Act on election
Last updated: 2005-11-14 16:01:58 UTC
ME28 What form does the authority, if any, of the EMB to enforce remedies or sanctions against the media in case of breach of the rules on media coverage of elections take
a. Enforcement of a right of reply, correction or retraction
Source: The act on the right of access to information, Law on telecommunications
Last updated: 2005-11-14 16:02:18 UTC
ME29 Do political parties or candidates have a right to have their replies to inaccurate or misleading media coverage published promptly and free of charge?
a. Yes
Source: The act on the right of access of information
Last updated: 2005-11-14 16:02:43 UTC
ME30 What is the legal liability of the media if they report unlawful statements by candidates during election campaigns (e.g. defamatory or inflammatory speeches)?
b. Administrative sanction
Comments: Misdemeanor shall be penalized by a fine
Source: Law on telecommunications
Last updated: 2005-11-14 16:03:11 UTC
ME31 Have the media or journalists' organisations adopted a code of ethics specific to elections?
Please send us a copy.
b. No
Comments: There is no specific code of ethics being adopted by media, but there are several papers as well as laws which intend to regulate the matter. Non of them propose sanctions to media who brake these regulations.
Source: Mr. Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 16:03:29 UTC
ME33 Which body, if any, is responsible for regulating free or paid access of political parties or candidates to the media during election campaigns.
a. EMB
Source: Act on election of representatives to the Croatian Parliament
Last updated: 2005-11-14 16:04:22 UTC
ME34 Which of the following types of radio stations provide political parties with free broadcast time for national election campaigns?
a. Publicly owned
c. Privately owned
Comments: The entire program offer may not serve a particular party interest or opinion on an one/sided basis. During the pre-election campaining a Radio and Tel. Concessionaire must enable to all parties the possibility of commercial political advertising under equal conditions
Source: Act on election, The act on the right of access to information
Last updated: 2005-11-14 16:05:04 UTC
ME35 Which of the following types of television stations provide political parties with free broadcast time for national election campaigns?
a. Publicly owned
c. Privately owned
Comments: The entire program offer may not serve a particular party interest or opinion on an one/sided basis. During the pre-election campaining a Radio and Tel. Concessionaire must enable to all parties the possibility of commercial political advertising under equal conditions
Source: Act on election, The act on the right of access to information
Last updated: 2005-11-14 16:05:57 UTC
ME36 Which of the following types of daily and weekly newspapers provide political parties with free printed advertisement space for national election campaigns?
a. Publicly owned
c. Privately owned
Comments: The entire program offer may not serve a particular party interest or opinion on an one/sided basis. During the pre-election campaining a Radio and Tel. Concessionaire must enable to all parties the possibility of commercial political advertising under equal conditions
Source: Act on election, The act on the right of access to information
Last updated: 2005-11-14 16:06:25 UTC
ME37 What are the criteria for allocating free broadcast time and/or free printed advertisement space to political parties?
a. Equal regardless of size of party and previous performance
Source: The act on the right of access to information, Law on telecommunications
Last updated: 2005-11-14 16:06:59 UTC
ME38 What, if any, is the maximum amount that a political party is permitted to spend on paid advertising during a campaign period?
b. The law does not specify any limits on paid advertising x
Comments: Every political party has the obligation by the beginning of election advertising to announce approximate data on the amount and source of own means that it intends to spend for election advertising
Source: Act on election of representatives to the Croatian Parliament.
Last updated: 2005-11-14 16:07:31 UTC
ME42 What are the criteria for allocating free broadcast time and/or free printed advertisement space to individual candidates (legislative)?
a. Equal regardless of size and previous performance
Source: The Act on representatives of the Croatian Parliament
Last updated: 2005-11-14 16:10:10 UTC
ME43 Which of the following types of radio stations provide individual candidates (legislative) with paid broadcast time for national election campaigns?
a. Publicly owned
c. Privately owned
Source: Law on telecommunications
Last updated: 2005-11-14 16:12:56 UTC
ME44 Which of the following types of television stations provide individual candidates (legislative) with paid broadcast time and/or paid printed advertisement space for national election campaigns?
a. Publicly owned
c. Privately owned
Source: Law on telecommunications
Last updated: 2005-11-14 16:13:08 UTC
ME45 Which of the following types of daily and weekly newspapers provide individual candidates (legislative) with printed advertisement space for national election campaigns?
a. Publicly owned
c. Privately owned
Source: Law on telecommunications
Last updated: 2005-11-14 16:12:34 UTC
ME46 What are the criteria for allocating paid broadcast time and/or paid printed advertisement space to individual candidates (legislative)?
g. Not regulated: based only on the amount the candidate wishes to spend
Source: Act on election
Last updated: 2005-11-14 16:13:43 UTC
ME55 What, if any, is the maximum amount that a presidential candidate is permitted to spend on paid advertising?
Last updated: 2007-02-15 10:07:19 UTC
ME56 What are the laws, if any, which govern the disclosure of campaign advertising expenditures by political parties and candidates?
b. There are no laws in this regard x
Comments: There are laws which regulate the expenditures for the whole campaign, but no strict rules have been brought considering this matter, e.g. there are no sanctions!
Source: Mr Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 16:15:19 UTC
ME57 What, if any, is the maximum amount that a media outlet can charge parties/candidates for advertising during the campaign?
Last updated: 2007-02-15 10:07:19 UTC
ME58 How does this maximum amount (identified in question C.15.1) affect the political participation of smaller or newly formed parties?
Last updated: 2007-02-15 10:07:19 UTC
ME59 Are televised debates between candidates or party representatives normally conducted?
b. Yes, in legislative elections
Source: Regulations for the coverage of the election campaign by Croatian radio-television, art. II, b, 1
Last updated: 2007-02-15 10:07:19 UTC
ME60 What legal requirements, if any, regulate the participation of candidates or party representatives in media debates?
a. ......... T
Source: Mr. Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2007-02-15 10:07:19 UTC
ME61 Which of the following information in reporting the results of opinion polls are required to be disclosed by law?
g. None
Source: Act on election of representatives to the Croatian Parliament. Art. 27.
Last updated: 2005-11-14 16:18:08 UTC
ME62 What is the blackout period, if any, during which results of pre-election opinion polls may not be released to the public?
a. 1 day
Source: Act on election of representatives to the Croatian Parliament, Art. 26.
Last updated: 2005-11-14 16:18:24 UTC
ME64 If exit polls are permitted, when can the results be disseminated via the media?
b. After all polls close
Source: Act on election of representatives to the Croatian Parliament, Art. 26.
Last updated: 2005-11-14 16:18:57 UTC
ME65 When are the media, by law, allowed to report preliminary election results?
b. After all polls close, before official results are available
Source: Act on election of representatives to the Croatian Parliament. Art. 26.
Last updated: 2005-11-14 16:19:26 UTC
ME66 Are the media allowed to project/predict winners before the final results are available?
a. Yes
Last updated: 2005-11-14 16:19:42 UTC
ME67 What resources does the EMB have for its work with the media?
d. No one with full-time responsibility for media work
Source: Mr Damir Azenic
Last updated: 2005-11-14 16:19:59 UTC
ME68 Have staff responsible for media relations received training for this work?
b. No
Source: Mr Damir Azenic
Last updated: 2005-11-14 16:20:41 UTC
ME69 Which of the following has the EMB produced or organised?
b. Press releases
c. Press conferences/briefings
e. Web site
Comments: The first non official results are being announced by the State election commission at a press conference which is being held at midnight (after the election day).
Source: Mr Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 16:21:20 UTC
ME70 Has the EMB provided or facilitated training for journalists in how the electoral process works?
b. No
Source: Mr Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 16:23:09 UTC
ME77 What steps does the EMB take to make sure that it is communicating its message to the media?
e. None of the above
Source: Mr Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 16:52:03 UTC
ME78 Which of the following do you judge to be significant barriers to the EMB in communicating its message to the media?
a. Insufficient staff with responsibility for media relations
b. Insufficient training of staff with responsibility for media relations
Source: Mr Damir Azenic, GONG
Last updated: 2005-11-14 16:52:22 UTC
Parties and Candidates
PC01 What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 1)?
f. Other
Comments: f) All political parties registered in the Republic of Croatia, on the day of proclamation of decision in the Official Gazette that the elections have been called, are entitled to propose their party lists for election of representatives to the House of Representatives.
Source: Electoral Code, Article 20.
Last updated: Wed, 28 Aug 2002 20:54:37 GMT
PC02 What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 2)?
g. Not applicable
Comments: The national legislature consists of only one chamber.
Source: Constitution, articles 70 and 71.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:28:45 GMT
PC03 What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
a. Age
b. Citizenship
Source: Electoral Code, article 4 (paragraph 2).
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:29:42 GMT
PC04 What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
k. Not applicable
Comments: The national legislature consists of only one chamber.
Source: Constitution, articles 70 and 71.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:30:37 GMT
PC05 What are the legal qualifications for becoming a candidate at presidential elections?
a. Age
b. Citizenship
Source: OSCE - Presidential 4-5. p.
Last updated: Mon, 20 May 2002 16:27:01 GMT
PC06 What can disqualify a candidate at legislative elections?
f. Holding of military office
g. Holding of government office
n. Holding of other public offices (police etc.)
o. Other
Comments: o) Board members of companies where the state is the majority owner.
Source: Electoral Code, article 9 (paragraph 2).
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:32:06 GMT
PC07 What can disqualify a candidate at presidential elections?
p. Other
Comments: p: No disqualification cause is to be found.
Source: OSCE - Presidential 4-5. p.
Last updated: Wed, 07 Aug 2002 18:47:42 GMT
PC08 Can independent candidates compete in presidential or legislative elections?
e. In both presidential and legislative elections
Source: Electoral Code, articles 20 and 21.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:33:18 GMT
PC09 If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 1), what are the registration requirements?
a. Signature requirement (specify)
Comments: 500 signatures.
Source: Electoral Code, article 21 (paragraph 2).
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:34:02 GMT
PC10 If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 2), what are the registration requirements?
e. Not applicable
Comments: The national legislature only consists of one chamber.
Source: Constitution, articles 70 and 71.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:34:23 GMT
PC11 If independent candidates can compete in presidential elections, what are the registration requirements?
a. Signature requirement (specify)
Comments: 10.000 signatures.
Source: OSCE - Presidential 5. p.
Last updated: Mon, 22 Jul 2002 12:35:40 GMT
PC12 Do political parties receive direct/indirect public funding?
b. Direct
c. Indirect
Source: Electoral Code, articles: 29, 30 and 31 to 37. Law on Political Parties. Regulations on the Conduct of Croatian Radio-Television.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:36:02 GMT
PC13 If political parties receive direct/indirect public funding, when do they receive this?
a. As related to the election period only
Source: Electoral Code, articles: 29, 30 and 31 to 37. Law on Political Parties. Regulations on the Conduct of Croatian Radio-Television.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:37:38 GMT
PC14 If political parties receive indirect public funding, identify the type of funding:
a. Free media access
Source: Electoral Code, articles 29 and 30. Regulations on the Conduct of Croatian Radio-Television.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:38:48 GMT
PC15 What is the basis of the public funding?
a. Equal funding, regardless of size and previous performance
b. Based on result of previous election
Comments: a) Media access. b) Financing of campaign.
Source: Electoral Code, articles: 29, 30 and 31 to 37. Law on Political Parties. Regulations on the Conduct of Croatian Radio-Television.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:39:31 GMT
PC16 If political parties receive public funding, what is the specified purpose?
b. Election campaign activities
Source: Electoral Code, articles: 29, 30 and 31 to 37. Law on Political Parties. Regulations on the Conduct of Croatian Radio-Television.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:40:01 GMT
PC17 Are political parties entitled to private funding?
a. Yes
Last updated: Mon, 20 May 2002 16:36:22 GMT
PC18 If political parties are entitled to private funding, for what period?
c. As related to the election period and between elections
Last updated: Mon, 20 May 2002 16:36:42 GMT
PC19 Which of the following party financing provisions are applicable?
i. Other
Comments: The Law requires a pre-election disclosure of the intended expenditures and their sources but does not compel political parties to disclose their financial record after the election.
Source: Electoral Code, article 33.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:41:09 GMT
PC20 Which of the following candidate financing provisions are applicable?
i. Other
Comments: i) Each political party which puts up lists for election of representatives is obliged to proclaim approximate data on the amount and origin of their own financial means which are to be spent for election campaign (before the beginning of election campaign). Candidates for representatives of national minorities and bearers of independent lists are also obliged.
Source: Electoral Code, article 33.
Last updated: Wed, 28 Aug 2002 12:06:45 GMT
Vote Counting
VC01 What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
a. Single ballot (all registered parties listed)
c. Write-in ballot
d. Categorical (only one mark allowed)
g. Different ballots used in different constituencies
n. Random listing (lottery)
Source: Electoral Code, articles 75 to 78.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:49:07 GMT
VC02 What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
s. Not applicable
Comments: The national legislature only consists of one chamber.
Source: Constitution, articles 70 and 71.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:50:25 GMT
VC03 What are the characteristics of ballots used at presidential elections?
a. Single ballot (all registered parties/candidates listed)
c. Write-in ballot
d. Categorical (only possible to make one mark)
f. Same ballot papers used nation-wide
Source: OSCE - Presidential
Last updated: Mon, 20 May 2002 16:56:44 GMT
VC04 Following the close of the voting, where are the votes first sorted and counted?
a. At the polling stations
Source: Electoral Code, article 84.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:51:25 GMT
VC06 Following the sorting and counting, to where are the results first transmitted for consolidation?
b. Sub-district level
Source: Electoral Code, article 87.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:52:11 GMT
VC07 At what levels are seats allocated?
c. Regional level (specify whether it is constituency/ province/ state/ department/other)
Source: Electoral Code, article 89 (paragraph 1, point 3).
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:52:56 GMT
VC08 How are the initial/preliminary polling results transmitted and communicated to the different levels?
a. Physically transported
Source: Electoral Code, articles: 87, 88 (paragraph 2), and 89 (paragraph 3).
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:54:24 GMT
VC09 If the polling results are physically transported, what is transported?
f. Certificate of result
Comments: f) Minutes about management and the results.
Source: Electoral Code, articles: 87, 88 (paragraph 2), and 89 (paragraph 3).
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:55:33 GMT
VC10 If the polling results are physically transported, what security measures are used?
a. No security measures
Source: Electoral Code, articles: 87, 88 (paragraph 2), and 89 (paragraph 3).
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:56:03 GMT
VC11 Under what conditions are ballots recounted?
a. Never recounted
Source: Electoral Code
Last updated: Fri, 09 Aug 2002 16:44:14 GMT
VC12 If automatically recounted, what is the trigger?
e. Not applicable
Comments: Results are never recounted.
Source: Electoral Code
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:57:40 GMT
VC13 If ballots are recounted by request, who can make the request?
g. Not applicable
Comments: Results are never recounted.
Source: Electoral Code
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:58:24 GMT
VC14 If recounted, who conducts the recount?
j. Not applicable
Comments: Results are never recounted.
Source: Electoral Code
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:58:54 GMT
VC15 Are preliminary results announced?
a. Yes
Source: Electoral Code, article 94 (paragraph 1).
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:59:31 GMT
VC16 If preliminary results are announced, how long after the close of polls is this done?
a. hours: 5-6 hours
Source: OSCE - Parlamentary 26. p.
Last updated: Mon, 20 May 2002 16:58:58 GMT
VC17 Is there a legal requirement for the declaration of the officially certified results?
a. Yes
Source: Electoral Code, articles 91 and 92.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 12:00:27 GMT
VC18 How long after the close of polls is the certified results publicly announced? (if there is no legal requirement enter the average time)
b. days:
Comments: Within 24 hours the State Election Board must receive the results from the boundary commissions, and in 48 hours from the commissions working in consular or diplomatic missions. Thereafter, the State Election Board has to publicize the results without delay. Last time it took 16 days, because of the repeated elections.
Source: Electoral Code, articles: 87, 88 (paragraph 2), 89 (paragraph 2), 91 and 92.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 12:02:45 GMT
Voter Education
VE01 Who conducts voter education and information campaigns at the national elections (informing where, when and how to register and vote)?
g. NGOs/ Civic Organizations
i. Media
Comments: GONG, the main Croatian non-governmental organisation dealing with election issues, provided voter education through various state owned media and by telephone help lines.
Source: OSCE election observation report of the 2003 parliamentary elections; http://www.osce.org/documents/odihr/2004/01/1897_en.pdf
Last updated: 2007-01-29 14:07:39 UTC
Voting Operations
VO03 Where can electors vote?
a. At a specified polling station in the locality where they are registered at national elections
c. At any polling station in the same country
d. At specially designated polling stations
e. At mobile polling stations
Source: Electoral Code, articles: 6, 7, 8 and 83 (paragraph 1).
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:11:42 GMT
VO04 Who can vote from outside the country?
b. Citizens residing outside the country
Source: Electoral Code, articles 8 and 44 (paragraph 1).
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:12:32 GMT
VO05 If voting outside the country is permitted, at what places?
a. Embassies
b. Consulates
Source: Electoral Code, article 6.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:13:02 GMT
VO06 Can people vote in advance of the designated national election day(s)?
a. No
Comments: a) One semi exception: in diplomatic and consular representative bodies the voting takes place in two days being the first one the day before the election day in Croatia.
Source: Electoral Code, article 80 (paragraphs 1 and 2).
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:16:06 GMT
VO07 If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), how may they do so?
f. Not applicable
Comments: Electors cannot vote in advance of the designated national election day(s).
Source: Electoral Code, article 80 (paragraphs 1 and 2).
Last updated: Wed, 28 Aug 2002 12:03:37 GMT
VO08 If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), specify who:
g. Not applicable
Comments: Electors cannot vote in advance of the designated national election day(s).
Source: Electoral Code, article 80 (paragraphs 1 and 2).
Last updated: Wed, 28 Aug 2002 12:04:02 GMT
VO09 Is there a maximum allowable voter capacity of a polling station for the national elections?
b. No
Comments: The Election Board of electoral precinct fixes the polling places based on suggestions made by municipal and town election boards.
Source: Electoral Code, article 61(2).
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:20:02 GMT
VO10 Is there a maximum allowable voter capacity of a polling station for the national elections?
b. No X
Comments: There is no maximum capacity.
Source: Electoral Code, article 61(2).
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:20:51 GMT
Voter Registration
VR01 What is the legal voting age in the national elections?
c. 18
Source: Constitution, article 45.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:05:35 GMT
VR02 Beyond age, what other qualifications exist for registering to vote and voting in the national elections?
a. Citizenship
Source: Constitution, article 45.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:05:59 GMT
VR03 What restrictions on registering to vote and voting exist in the country?
d. Mental disability
Comments: Electoral Code, article 4.
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:06:29 GMT
VR04 Which is the authority responsible for the registration of voters for national elections?
c. Local Government Authority
Source: Law on Election Registers
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:06:54 GMT
VR05 What is the registration method for national elections?
b. Voters register
Source: Law on Election Registers
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:07:35 GMT
VR06 How frequently is the voters register updated?
a. Continuously
Source: Law on Election Registers
Last updated: Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:08:00 GMT
May 20, 2008 07:19 AM
