Anti-War Activists Urge Croatia to Confront Operation Storm Crimes

An anti-war action is planned for August 3, 2026, in Zagreb. It marks 31 years since Operation Storm. The action, called "Crimes in Storm are the responsibility of all of us," states that societies must face their past crimes. Organizers offer sympathy to all war crime victims. They specifically remember crimes against Croatian Serbs by Croatian forces during Operation Storm. They note years of official denial of these crimes.

During and after the operation, over 22,000 homes burned. About 200,000 people lost their homes. Documenta recorded 1,747 Serbian victims and 466 Croatian victims. Most Serbs killed were civilians. Most Croatians killed were armed forces members. Many crimes remain uninvestigated. Instead of truth, the past is often made into a national myth, increasing division.

Society is also becoming more militarized. Public funds are shifting to military uses, and mandatory military service is returning. A recent Constitutional Court decision found that banning a 2016 anti-war protest was illegal. This is a win for freedom of assembly. Organizers call for citizens, politicians, and media to join their efforts. They believe facing the past builds a society of truth, justice, and respect, preventing future violence. Several organizations support this action, including Centar za žene žrtve rata – ROSA and Documenta.