Full Breakdown
Public Outcry Against Industrial Poultry Farms in Croatia
2/24/2026, 12:13:33 PM
Overview of the Protests
On Saturday, several thousand demonstrators gathered in Zagreb to protest the proposed construction of large-scale industrial poultry farms and slaughterhouses in Sisak-Moslavina County. The protest was organized by environmental group Zelena akcija and animal rights organization Prijatelji životinja, with support from local civic initiatives such as “Sišcani ne žele biti Smetlišcani” and “Sunjani ne žele biti smuljani.” Protesters expressed strong opposition to what they describe as harmful and unsustainable investment projects that threaten local communities, agriculture, and the environment.
Investment and Project Details
The planned poultry farms are backed by over €600 million in investment from Premium Chicken Company, a Croatian-registered entity linked to Ukrainian capital through Renaissance Capital. The project documentation indicates that one investor anticipates an annual capacity of 84.2 million chickens, with a slaughter rate of 15,000 chickens per hour, operating 16 hours a day. Opponents claim that the total capacity could reach as high as 270 million chickens annually, with slaughter figures potentially hitting 30,000 chickens per hour.
Environmental and Social Concerns
Protesters raised alarms about the potential for "enormous and unstoppable pollution," which they argue could negatively impact air quality, water resources, soil, and public health. Concerns also extend to animal welfare and the sustainability of intensive industrial farming practices. Local residents in Sisak-Moslavina County have already voiced their opposition through petitions and smaller demonstrations, indicating a growing resistance to the plans.
Official Statements and Legal Challenges
Local authorities have also expressed concerns regarding the project. According to Celjak, a representative from the City of Sisak, the proposed chicken farms will not be included in amendments to the Sisak-Moslavina County spatial plan. He stated, "We believe the proposed project conflicts with the City of Sisak’s spatial plan...there is no legal basis to build the factory within the City of Sisak." This legal stance reflects the broader public sentiment against the project, emphasizing the need for compliance with local regulations.
Criticism and Opposition
Critics of the poultry project argue that while investors claim it will create jobs and boost the local economy, the environmental, social, and health impacts could be substantial, particularly in smaller communities with sensitive ecosystems. The protests in Zagreb are part of a larger national debate regarding foreign investment, environmental protection, and the future of agricultural development in Croatia.
What's Next
As public opposition continues to grow, further protests and legal actions are anticipated. The outcome of these developments will likely influence the future of industrial farming practices in Croatia and the balance between economic growth and environmental sustainability.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Chicken farms will not be included in the amendments to the Sisak-Moslavina County spatial plan.” — Celjak, City of Sisak Representative
- “The protest message stressed that Croatian citizens and authorities have the right to defend their communities and reject projects they believe are detrimental to their future.” — Protest Organizers
