The European Commission has condemned the use of fascist symbols and slogans that evoke “the darkest periods of European history,” following a concert by Croatian singer Marko Perković Thompson where the crowd chanted the Ustaše-era salute “Za dom spremni” (“For the homeland – ready”).
The statement came in response to questions regarding Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković, who defended the salute used at the concert, describing it as an “integral part” of Thompson’s performances and saying the event was a source of national pride.
“There is an EU Framework Decision on combating racism and xenophobia which requires member states to criminalize hate speech,” the Commission said, as reported by Klix. “This includes public incitement to violence or hatred directed against individuals or groups based on race, color, religion, descent, or national or ethnic origin.”
The Commission also noted that member states are obliged to prosecute the public approval, denial, or gross trivialization of crimes such as genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes.
“Each reported case of hate speech or hate crime falls under the responsibility of national authorities, who are required to act in accordance with national laws implementing the Framework Decision,” the Commission told Index.hr.
The chant “Za dom spremni” is widely recognized as the official salute of the fascist Ustaše regime, which ruled the Independent State of Croatia (NDH) during World War Two. Its use has been widely condemned by public figures and civil society groups in Croatia and abroad.