Croatia Online - A Parable

Think laterally of Southern Ireland ten years ago and think Croatia. Similar size and population, comparable resourcefulness, education and intellect, and aspirations of finding a rightful place in the world, not determined by historically powerful neighbours, world politics and geographical boundaries. Ignore, or set aside, the arrival process! Mary Robinson, as President of Southern Ireland, used to light a candle every night for the Irish Diaspora. Southern Ireland is one of the few success stories, recently, within the EU; Croatia could be the next. I’d guess that the Croatian Diaspora might be at least as large, hardworking and influential as its Irish cousins but has a few extra challenges to meet. Whenever you get to meet a Croatian “returnee” you know that’s someone you can deal with. Who’s lighting the candle?