Thousands of Gospić residents, led by Željka Šikić, rallied near parliament demanding removal of a 35,000‑tonne illegal waste dump threatening their town.

Protest draws thousands

Željka Šikić led a rally of 40,000 people outside the Croatian parliament earlier this month, chanting "Gospić is our home." The crowd demanded immediate action to remove waste that has plagued the town for years.

Illegal dump details

Between 2022 and 2024 unknown parties illegally abandoned waste at several sites in Gospić. The largest site, located just 50 metres from Šikić’s home, contains an estimated 35,000 tonnes of material, some of it hazardous.

Community response

Residents formed the "Gospić is our home" campaign and organized volunteer clean‑up crews. Local volunteers have begun sorting recyclable items, while officials have yet to begin removal work.

Government pledge

The Ministry of Environment confirmed it will assess the site within two weeks and prepare a removal plan. No specific timeline for actual cleanup was provided.

Next steps

Residents announced another demonstration on June 15 if progress stalls. The town council is scheduled to meet with ministry officials next week to discuss logistics.

Resident voice

"We cannot wait for more promises," said Marko Kovač, a local teacher, emphasizing the urgency felt by families living near the dump.

Demand list

• Immediate assessment of hazardous material
• Full removal of all waste within 30 days
• Compensation for affected homeowners
• Long‑term monitoring of the site