Of 503 complaints received, as many as 174 related to racial discrimination, the statement said, adding that racial discrimination in Croatia was widespread and in particular directed at the Roma, Serb and other minorities.
The Ombudsman's Office says that discrimination exists in the form of racist statements on web portals and at sporting events, and through actions by individuals and institutions that prevent individuals from participating in social life solely because of their race, ethnic background or skin colour.
It said that racial discrimination can be effectively combated only by using legal protection mechanisms and raising awareness of the unacceptability of racist, xenophobic and prejudicial views.