Andrej Plenković assumed the role of Prime Minister of Croatia in 2016, becoming the nation’s longest-serving head of government. A career diplomat who transitioned into executive politics, he has navigated Croatia through significant regional challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, major seismic events in Zagreb and Petrinja, and the complex integration process into the Eurozone and Schengen Area.
Early Education and Diplomatic Foundation
Born in 1970 in Zagreb, Plenković attended the XVI Gymnasium before enrolling at the Faculty of Law of the University of Zagreb. He graduated in 1993 with a focus on international public law. His early interests in European institutions were developed through his participation in the European Law Students Association, where he served as president of the Zagreb branch and later the international committee based in Brussels. Following an internship at the London law firm Stephenson Harwood, he began his diplomatic path by completing a program at the diplomatic academy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
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Between 1994 and 2011, Plenković held various positions within the Croatian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, including roles as a chief of the European integration department and adviser for European affairs. His work centered on Croatia's integration into the European Union. From 2002 to 2005, he operated from Brussels as deputy chief of the Croatian mission, coordinating political activities with European institutions. He later served as the deputy ambassador to France from 2005 to 2011, refining his expertise in foreign relations and management.
Legislative and Executive Leadership
Plenković was elected to the Croatian Parliament in 2011 and served as a Member of the European Parliament between 2013 and 2016. In 2016, he became the leader of the Croatian Democratic Union and won the parliamentary election, securing his first term as Prime Minister. Throughout his tenure, he has focused on infrastructure development, energy projects, and increased defense spending. His government also maintained active multilateralism, including support for Ukraine. He has been recognized with the Order of Merit, 1st class, and the Order of Prince Yaroslav the Wise, 1st class.
Fast facts
- Born: 1970, Zagreb
- Education: Faculty of Law, University of Zagreb
- Prime Minister of Croatia: 2016–present
- Languages: Croatian, French, Italian, English
- Diplomatic posting: Deputy Ambassador to France (2005–2011)
- Religion: Catholicism
Questions readers ask
What is the primary focus of Plenković's foreign policy?
His policy centers on multilateralism, European integration, and strengthening NATO ties, alongside consistent military support for Ukraine.
Which major European milestones did his government achieve?
His administration facilitated Croatia's entry into the Eurozone and the Schengen Area.
Achievements
- Member of the European Parliament (2013–2014)
- representative in the Croatian Parliament (2011–2014)
- Prime Minister of Croatia (from 2016)
- Member of the European Parliament (2014–2016)
- Order of Merit (Ukraine), 3rd class
- Order of Merit, 1st class
- Order of Prince Yaroslav the Wise, 1st class
- Educated at Faculty of Law of the University of Zagreb and XVI Gymnasium Zagreb
