Mid-term evaluation of the National Development Strategy of the Republic of Croatia until 2030 - Strategic Objective 1 and Strategic Objective 4

Commissioned by: The Ivo Pilar Institute of Social Sciences
Project duration: June 16 - October 1, 2026
Project manager: Marina Tkalec
Collaborators: Tanja Broz, Dubravka Jurlina Alibegović, Ivana Rašić

Summary: 
The project includes an independent external mid-term evaluation of the progress, effects and operational dynamics of the implementation of the umbrella strategic document of the Republic of Croatia (NRS 2030) within the framework of two strategic goals. As part of strategic objective 1 (SC1): "Competitive and innovative economy", an evaluation of five key priority areas is being carried out: industry, small and medium-sized enterprises, science, technology and innovation (S3), sustainable, innovative and resilient tourism, and encouraging the development of culture and media (including cultural and creative industries and restoration of cultural heritage). Strategic objective 4 (SC4): "Global recognition and strengthening of the international position and role of Croatia" includes the evaluation of the strengthening of the international position, foreign policy recognition and positioning of Croatia at the global level.
The main goal of the evaluation is to assess the extent to which the current support programs, reforms and investment cycles (financed through EU and RRP funds) correspond to the real needs of stakeholders and contribute to the achievement of macro performance indicators by 2030.
The evaluation is carried out according to four basic criteria: relevance, efficiency (achievement of goals), effectiveness (functioning of the administrative system and adequacy of resources) and sustainability of the results. The project applies a mixed research approach that combines quantitative analysis of statistical trends with extensive survey research and interviews with key stakeholders from the real sector, the academic community and relevant public bodies.
The expected result is an evaluation report with precisely identified operational bottlenecks and structural challenges in the implementation of public policies. The final findings will provide decision makers with well-founded recommendations for optimization of the implementation system, administrative relief for users and improvement of the design of future public calls in the second half of the implementation period of the NRS.