ZAGREB, 21 November 2025 – A recent study by the Institute for Migration Research reveals a notable dissatisfaction among Croatian citizens regarding the presence of foreign workers in the country. According to the survey conducted in early November with the agency Medianet, only three percent of the 1,000 adults interviewed expressed satisfaction, while a staggering 97 percent felt either dissatisfied or neutral about the situation.
The data indicates a growing discontent compared to last year, with those expressing full dissatisfaction increasing from 16.5 percent to 20.63 percent. The survey found that 42.16 percent of respondents felt partly dissatisfied, while 34.13 percent remained neutral. On the other hand, only a mere 2.78 percent reported feeling partly satisfied, and just 0.30 percent were fully satisfied with the status quo.
Security concerns remain the primary reason for this dissatisfaction, with 69.8 percent of critics citing fears of rising crime rates. Economic implications have also come to the forefront this year, with 51.7 percent of respondents worrying that foreign workers diminish job opportunities for Croatians and 47.7 percent believing their presence affects wages and work standards negatively. Cultural differences, while still a concern for 48.8 percent, appear to have lessened in intensity compared to previous surveys.
Among the small percentage that is satisfied, the benefits of cultural diversity are highlighted, with 87.1 percent believing that foreign workers enhance cultural exchange and social life. Other advantages noted include reduced unemployment (58.1 percent), increased productivity (48.4 percent), and better availability of certain services (19.4 percent).
The study also explored the social distance towards foreign workers, revealing significant barriers. Very few respondents were open to forming close relationships; only 2.4 percent would consider a foreign worker as a friend, and just around 10 percent would accept them as colleagues. Acceptance appeared stronger in professional environments, while personal bonds remain largely unattainable.
Demographic analysis shows limited variation in attitudes based on gender, age, or education. However, unemployed individuals expressed more critical views, particularly regarding job security and economic pressures. In contrast, pensioners tend to emphasize safety concerns more frequently.
Lead researcher Ivan Balabanić acknowledged the shifting societal concerns, noting that this year’s focus has transitioned from crime and cultural diversity to security, job availability, and wage levels. He believes that the findings suggest significant challenges ahead for integration, as Croatians largely view foreign workers as temporary labor rather than potential community members.
Marina Perić Kaselj, director of the Institute, underscored the necessity of ongoing research to inform migration policy. She emphasized that consistent data collection and analysis are vital to creating public discourse grounded in verified insights instead of assumptions, ensuring effective management of migration and development of sustainable public policies.