ZAGREB, 18 Dec (Hina) - A study presented at the "Dr. Andrija Štampar" Institute of Public Health on Thursday found that only 40% of foreign workers in Zagreb have a registered family doctor. Researchers warn that migration is also affecting the epidemiological situation, particularly regarding tuberculosis.
The one-year study surveyed 491 foreign workers on living and working conditions, access to healthcare, quality of life, and mental health.
Institute Director Branko Kolarić noted that while the city has taken steps to provide foreign workers with family doctors, results show progress is still insufficient. He stressed the need for medical check-ups and vaccinations upon entry into the country.
Kolarić also highlighted a rise in tuberculosis in Croatia, while noting that an isolated case of leprosy is epidemiologically insignificant but may contribute to the stigmatisation of migrant workers.
Croatian Institute of Public Health Director Krunoslav Capak said that Croatia, like the rest of Europe, faces a large labour-driven migration wave. He emphasised that integrating foreign workers requires attention to both health and social needs.
Capak noted ongoing legal updates, including a new regulation for residence permits that mandates health checks upon arrival and when renewing permits, as well as clearer obligations for employers, including language and rights education.
Programme leader warns of widespread prejudice and discrimination against migrants
Programme leader Dinko Štajduhar highlighted widespread prejudice and discrimination against migrants and noted that Croatian language programmes are often hard to implement due to migrants' living and working conditions.
He added that foreign workers, especially delivery personnel, are frequently exposed to violence from children and teens, occurring on average once or twice a week in Zagreb.
Epidemiologist Ivana Kolčić reported that respondents included 372 men and 102 women, mostly from Nepal, the Philippines and India, with an average age of 30. Over half were highly educated, but only 3% spoke Croatian fluently, 57% had minimal knowledge, and 20% spoke neither Croatian nor English. About 40% earned less than €850 per month, 9% earned over €1,200, and 20% shared accommodation with more than 11 people.
Nearly 80% expressed a desire to stay in Croatia, but challenges were evident: 30% felt lonely, and 16% showed significant symptoms of depression.
The programme was funded by the City of Zagreb through its Office for Social Welfare, Health, Veterans, and Persons with Disabilities.
