Croatian Democratic Union

The Croatian Democratic Union, known in Croatian as Hrvatska demokratska zajednica (HDZ), is a prominent political party in Croatia that has played a significant role in the country's political landscape since its foundation in 1989, in the lead-up to Croatia's independence from Yugoslavia. Founded by Franjo Tuđman, the party was instrumental in leading the country to independence and has been a major force in Croatian politics ever since, governing the country for much of its post-independence history.

The Croatian Democratic Union is generally positioned on the center-righ…  t of the political spectrum, espousing a blend of conservative, nationalist, and Christian democratic values. Its policies and ideology are rooted in the promotion of Croatian national identity and sovereignty, a commitment to the principles of democracy and a market economy, and the protection of traditional family values and the Catholic heritage of Croatia. The party advocates for Croatia's integration into European and transatlantic structures, having been a strong proponent of Croatia's membership in the European Union and NATO.

Economically, the HDZ supports free-market policies but also emphasizes the importance of social welfare programs and the state's role in creating conditions for economic growth and stability. The party has also been associated with advocating for the rights of Croatian communities outside of Croatia, particularly in Bosnia and Herzegovina, emphasizing the protection of their rights and identities.

Throughout its history, the Croatian Democratic Union has undergone various transformations, including shifts in leadership and policy focus, reflecting broader changes in Croatian society and the international context. Despite facing criticism and controversies, including issues related to nationalism and allegations of corruption, the HDZ remains a central figure in Croatian politics, appealing to a wide segment of the electorate who value its commitment to national identity, social conservatism, and economic development.