The International Scientific-Professional Conference “Croatian Language and Culture Abroad: Exploring the Past, Present, and Future” has successfully concluded

International Scientific-Professional Conference “Croatian Language and Culture Abroad: Exploring the Past, Present, and Future”, organised by the Faculty of Croatian Studies, University of Zagreb, the conference successfully concluded on 4 November 2025. Throughout the two-day programme, numerous scholars and experts from Croatia and abroad discussed key issues related to the preservation of the Croatian language, culture, and national identity in the context of contemporary social, educational, and demographic challenges.

The plenary sessions addressed the core themes of the conference, focusing on the future of the Croatian language and identity in a globalised world.
Marko Tadić, PhD, a Full Professor at the Department of Linguistics, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zagreb, delivered the opening address, presenting the new Croatian Language Act and the strategic guidelines of Croatia’s language policy, aimed at strengthening the teaching of the Croatian language abroad and among foreign learners in Croatia.
Vanda Babić Galić, PhD, a Full Professor and advisor to the Minister of Foreign and European Affairs of the Republic of Croatia highlighted the sensitive position of Croats in Montenegro and emphasised the need for systematic protection of their cultural and linguistic heritage.
Lidija Cvikić, PhDa Full Professor at the Faculty of Teacher Education, University of Zagreb, underscored the importance of scientifically grounded and methodologically modern instruction in Croatian as a second or foreign language, particularly in early childhood education.
Jasna Novak Milić, PhD, Assistant Professor from Macquarie University in Sydney, she highlighted that globalisation and digital technologies, despite potential challenges to preserving the linguistic identity of the diaspora, simultaneously open new avenues for connection and for the development of the Croatian language and culture worldwide.

In numerous parallel sessions, the central role of Croatian language instruction abroad was reaffirmed—particularly in Canada, the United States, Germany, and Hungary, as well as in other countries—in fostering linguistic and cultural awareness among younger generations. In many émigré communities, Croatian Catholic missions and parish communities continue to play an indispensable role. Alongside educational institutions and cultural associations, they have long served as the cornerstones of preserving language, culture, and religious identity, while also acting as vital bridges connecting Croatian families and children with their homeland.

Participants emphasised the need to modernise curricula, digitise educational materials, and strengthen cooperation among teachers, parents, institutions, and governmental bodies. Examples of successful bilingual and intercultural practices were presented, illustrating how such approaches enhance students’ communicative competences while fostering a deeper sense of identity and belonging.

Special attention was devoted to research on the cultural and educational formation of Croats worldwide, in which language and tradition were recognised as key factors in preserving a sense of belonging. A significant portion of the presentations addressed topics in literature, lexicography, and culture—ranging from the study of Latin heritage and exile literature to contemporary approaches to teaching Croatian and exploring the creative work of Croats in the diaspora. Particularly noteworthy were projects that digitally connect Croatian émigré publications, as well as initiatives aimed at preserving cultural heritage in Australia, Hungary, and Vojvodina.

Within the framework of the conference, the economic and demographic aspects of contemporary Croatia were also examined — from the integration of immigrants and returnees to their role in the demographic and economic revitalisation of the country. Discussions addressed the motivations for emigration and return, the relationship between demographic trends and national security, as well as the psychological and social dimensions of integration upon returning to the homeland.

A common conclusion emerged from the numerous presentations: the Croatian language, culture, and identity are inseparably linked with the overall development of Croatian society, while international cooperation, education, and digital connectivity represent essential prerequisites for strengthening the relationship between Croatia and its diaspora.

The conference also contributed to plans for developing a joint strategy for the preservation of Croatian identity in the future, in which education, culture, and language will hold a central place. Fostering awareness of these key components of national life will promote sustained dialogue between academic institutions, the Croatian diaspora, and the governmental bodies of the Republic of Croatia.

Through this successful conference, the organisers from the Faculty of Croatian Studies once again affirmed their role as a creative catalyst of new scientific insights, cultural dialogue, and intellectual inspiration that contribute to the common good and the development of the Croatian people.

Links:
Conference Programme
Book of abstracts