A consumer boycott in Croatia has triggered similar protests across the Balkans, as citizens voice frustration over rising prices and stagnant wages.
On Jan. 24, many Croatian shoppers refrained from making purchases in support of a Facebook-led movement called “Hello, Inspector.” Backed by consumer groups, trade unions, and political parties, the boycott led to a sharp drop in retail turnover. Data from Croatia’s Tax Administration showed a 29% decline in receipts compared to the previous week, with retail trade falling by 44%.
Prime Minister Andrej Plenković acknowledged the protest as a signal of public dissatisfaction, saying the government would consider it when shaping price control measures. Finance Minister Marko Primorac said he understood the motives behind the boycott, noting that such civic actions could influence pricing, though the government itself would not organize them.
Following the protest’s success, organizers are discussing future actions, including targeting specific retailers or products. The “Hello, Inspector” platform has called for additional boycotts based on consumer feedback.
The movement has since gained traction in neighboring countries. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, activists have called for a nationwide boycott on Jan. 31 to highlight rising living costs. Organizers are urging citizens to avoid spending on that day, demanding measures to curb inflation, raise the minimum wage, and improve economic conditions. Despite previous government efforts to freeze prices on essential goods, many Bosnians believe costs remain disproportionately high compared to wealthier nations.
In North Macedonia, a supermarket boycott is planned for the same day, with opposition party SDSM blaming the government for failing to address price hikes. The ruling VMRO-DPMNE party has backed the protest, accusing retailers of speculative pricing. A government initiative to lower prices, known as the “New Year’s basket,” was widely seen as ineffective, as costs had already risen before reductions were applied.
Montenegro has also joined the regional protests, with the NGO “Alternative Montenegro” calling for a Jan. 31 boycott of supermarkets and shops. The group argues that rising prices are affecting all citizens, regardless of political affiliation, and accuses retailers of coordinated price increases.
As consumer boycotts spread across the Balkans, citizens are using collective purchasing power to push for government action on pricing and living standards. Whether authorities will introduce meaningful policy changes remains unclear, but the growing protests reflect widespread economic discontent.