Tuđman vs. Soros: The First Croatian President Against a Hidden Network of Power

The year is 1996. Croatia, a young nation emerging from war, is forging its identity. But in the shadows, an invisible web of influence is spreading. Billionaire and self-proclaimed philanthropist George Soros, through his Open Society Foundation, is embedding itself deep into cultural institutions and the media.

President Franjo Tuđman, the man who dreamed of an independent Croatia, senses a threat. At a government meeting, he slams his fist on the table: “Soros and his allies have extended their tentacles throughout our society! They are creating a state within a state!”

The media and intellectual elites, many already funded by Soros' money, erupt in outrage. But Tuđman does not back down. Investigations begin. Soros’ offices in Zagreb are raided, and three high-ranking officials from his foundation are indicted for financial misconduct. 

Croatia becomes the first country in the world to openly challenge the power of global capital hidden behind humanitarian ideals. The world watched in disbelief as the small nation took on the global financial giant.

American media lash out at Tuđman. The New York Times paints him as an “autocratic leader” cracking down on civil society. But the president remains resolute. “We will not allow foreigners to dictate our destiny!”

Two years later, in 1999, Tuđman dies. Later, Soros himself writes in his memoirs: “My foundation helped bring about regime change in Croatia…”. 

But the memory remains—Croatia’s first president was one of the few who dared to stand against a global network of power.