Whistleblower law in Croatia #
Croatia implemented Directive (EU) 2019/1937 through the Whistleblower Protection Act published in Narodne novine 46/2022. The Croatian framework combines the standard 50-worker employer trigger with a strong coordinating role for the Ombudswoman.
Applicable law #
- Whistleblower Protection Act — official text in Narodne novine
- Croatian Ombudswoman key implementation guidance
Who must establish an internal channel #
Private employers with at least 50 workers must establish an internal reporting channel. Croatian public authorities are also covered by the act’s internal-reporting rules. Entities in the financial-services and anti-money-laundering, transport-safety, and environmental sectors are in scope regardless of headcount.
External reporting authority #
The Croatian Ombudswoman is the external reporting authority. The Ombudswoman receives reports, protects the reporting person’s position and forwards the substance of the case to the competent authority where needed.
Data protection authority #
For complaints about the processing of personal data in the whistleblowing process, the relevant authority is the Croatian Personal Data Protection Agency (AZOP) .
Key compliance points #
- Croatian law requires the employer to appoint a confidential person and a deputy for internal handling.
- Anonymous reporters can still obtain protection if their identity is later established and retaliation follows.
- The Ombudswoman’s official guidance emphasizes identity protection, emotional support and timely communication with the reporting person.
Official sources #
- Whistleblower Protection Act — official law text
- Ombudswoman — key information for reporting persons and confidential persons
- Ombudswoman — public disclosure guidance
- AZOP — request to determine infringement of rights