This chapter examines the evolution of political oratory in Croatia over the past 35 years, from its socialist past within Yugoslavia to its current status as an independent democratic state. The analysis situates political rhetoric within broader historical and societal transformations, including the Homeland War, Croatia’s transition to democracy, and the development of media freedom. Drawing on political speeches, debates, and campaign discourse, the chapter highlights key rhetorical strategies such as emotional appeals, patriotic narratives, and credibility-building, particularly in relation to the enduring legacy of the war and figures like Franjo Tuđman. The phrase “Where were you in ‘91?” exemplifies how wartime experiences continue to shape public and political discourse. Despite the democratization of speech and media, rhetorical education remains limited, leaving most political figures reliant on innate communication skills. The rivalry between major political leaders, such as Prime Minister Plenković and President Milanović, illustrates the rhetorical polarization within Croatia’s duopolistic system. Additionally, the transformation of the media—from state control to pluralism—has significantly influenced political communication. Ultimately, the chapter demonstrates how political rhetoric in Croatia reflects its complex journey toward democratic maturity, and how historical memory continues to influence contemporary political discourse and identity.

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Croatia’s Political Rhetoric: From the Dissolution of Yugoslavia to European Union Integration

  • Gabrijela Kišiček

摘要

This chapter examines the evolution of political oratory in Croatia over the past 35 years, from its socialist past within Yugoslavia to its current status as an independent democratic state. The analysis situates political rhetoric within broader historical and societal transformations, including the Homeland War, Croatia’s transition to democracy, and the development of media freedom. Drawing on political speeches, debates, and campaign discourse, the chapter highlights key rhetorical strategies such as emotional appeals, patriotic narratives, and credibility-building, particularly in relation to the enduring legacy of the war and figures like Franjo Tuđman. The phrase “Where were you in ‘91?” exemplifies how wartime experiences continue to shape public and political discourse. Despite the democratization of speech and media, rhetorical education remains limited, leaving most political figures reliant on innate communication skills. The rivalry between major political leaders, such as Prime Minister Plenković and President Milanović, illustrates the rhetorical polarization within Croatia’s duopolistic system. Additionally, the transformation of the media—from state control to pluralism—has significantly influenced political communication. Ultimately, the chapter demonstrates how political rhetoric in Croatia reflects its complex journey toward democratic maturity, and how historical memory continues to influence contemporary political discourse and identity.