"Some of the training for the above target groups was held with the support of the Ombudsman... to raise awareness about anti-discrimination," read conclusions of the fourth round of ECRI's monitoring work on the recommendations the Croatian government received in 2012.
In-service training sessions were organised on non-discrimination against the LGBT community, on anti-discrimination laws and on laws on gender equality and hate crime.
"ECRI welcomes the training provided for police, especially regarding hate crime. However, in view of... gaps... in the continuous training of judges, prosecutors and lawyers on non-discrimination, ECRI considers that its recommendation has been partially implemented."
As for improvements in the application of the Law on Free Legal Aid, designed to facilitate access to legal aid by vulnerable groups, the most significant amendment is that access to primary legal aid for any legal matter has been simplified.
The requirements to qualify for free legal aid have been eased; there are broader categories of possible beneficiaries, the means test has been lowered and the overall procedure simplified, says ECRI.
"ECRI notes that it is generally agreed that the new Free Legal Aid Law is a significant improvement and should facilitate access to legal aid for vulnerable groups. However, concerns have been raised over the funding of the new system; without increased and continuous financial support allocated to the providers of free legal aid, the scheme will not function properly.
ECRI considers that, although the question of funding remains to be resolved, its recommendation to improve the Law on Free Legal Aid, in close dialogue with all stakeholders, has been implemented," read the conclusions.
ECRI welcomes the Croatian Parliament's adoption of a Migration Policy for 2013-2015. An Action Plan for removing obstacles to the integration of foreigners was also adopted, with a focus on refugees and beneficiaries of subsidiary protection. A new protocol on the treatment of alien children separated from their parents is yet to be adopted.
ECRI notes also that there is no indication in the policy itself nor from information provided by the authorities of any consultation with the UNHCR or relevant NGOs in the development of the Migration Policy.
"While this is regrettable, ECRI nevertheless considers that its recommendation to adopt a comprehensive strategy for migrants, asylum seekers and refugees, paying particular attention to regulating the care of unaccompanied minors, has been implemented."
ECRI monitors countries individually, in five-year rounds that cover a period of 9 to 10 years. It analyses the situation, advises and proposes solutions for detected problems. Work on the fourth round's reports started in January 2008.
ECRI was founded by the Council of Europe. This independent body monitoring respect for human rights and specialising in racism and intolerance, is made up of independent and objective experts. They are appointed on the basis of their moral authority and recognised expertise in dealing with racism, xenophobia, anti-Semitism and intolerance.