They are at the heart of my political activities. The experience in the Croatian Parliament has taught me how crucial the legislative framework and political will are in reducing the gap between the privileged and the disenfranchised.
In the European Parliament, I work for fairer social policies. The right to affordable housing is key to combating poverty, and the EU must provide financial and legislative mechanisms for housing as a human right, not a luxury. Also, I am fighting for the rights of pensioners, because too many elderly people in Europe are living in poverty after decades of working and building society, which is absolutely unacceptable.
Those are crucial to preserve European democracies, and Croatia is a painful example of a system in which political ties often outweigh expertise and public interest. The fight against these phenomena must be consistent, courageous and systematic.
In the European Parliament, I advocate for stricter monitoring mechanisms and greater EU powers to tackle the misuse of public funds. Citizens must have confidence in institutions, and this can only be achieved if policy becomes more accountable, transparent and free from the influence of narrow interest groups.
They have contributed a lot to the development of Croatia, as well as other EU members. Now I have the opportunity to make EU funds even more accessible to EU citizens, but I also work to ensure their fairer spending, free from corruption and theft.
It is essential for the stability and prosperity of our continent. I deeply believe that all the countries of the Western Balkans should become part of the European Union. Although important reform changes await them along the way, through my work in the European Parliament I want to be a strong ally of all those who are committed to meeting the criteria, strengthening the rule of law and preserving democratic values.
My priority is also to protect and promote human rights in all the policies of the European Union. Years of work in civil society, particularly through the Center for Peace Studies, have shaped my belief that the rule of law, the rights of migrants and LGBTI communities, and the transparency of security institutions are the foundation of a democratic society. In the European Parliament, I continue to fight against abuses of power and the injustices to which citizens are exposed. The European Union must lead the way in protecting human rights, both within its borders and in international relations.
