Istrian Democratic Assembly

The Croatian Istrian Democratic Assembly, known by its Croatian acronym IDS-DDI (Istarski demokratski sabor - Dieta democratica Istriana), is a regional political party in Croatia, primarily active in the Istria County. Founded in 1990, shortly before Croatia declared independence from Yugoslavia, the party has played a significant role in advocating for the rights and interests of the Istrian region and its people. The IDS-DDI is characterized by its strong commitment to regionalism, decentralization, and the protection of cultural and linguistic diversity, reflecting the unique identity…   of Istria, which has a rich history and a blend of Croatian, Italian, and other cultural influences.

The party's values are deeply rooted in the principles of European integration, environmental protection, sustainable development, and social justice. It emphasizes the importance of local governance and the empowerment of local communities, arguing that decisions should be made as close to the citizens as possible. The IDS-DDI has been a proponent of greater autonomy for Istria within the Croatian state, advocating for policies that would allow regions to have more control over their development, finances, and educational systems.

In terms of its political orientation, the IDS-DDI is often described as centrist or center-left, aligning with progressive policies, especially in areas such as minority rights, civil liberties, and social welfare. The party supports the protection of minority languages and cultures, including the Italian minority in Istria, and promotes bilingualism in public administration and education.

The IDS-DDI's commitment to European values is also evident in its support for Croatia's integration into the European Union, which it viewed as a crucial step for the country's development and for enhancing regional cooperation. Since Croatia's accession to the EU in 2013, the party has continued to advocate for the benefits of EU membership, including access to European funds for regional development projects.

Overall, the Croatian Istrian Democratic Assembly represents a distinctive voice in Croatian politics, championing the cause of regionalism and advocating for policies that reflect the unique identity, needs, and aspirations of the Istrian people. Its focus on environmental sustainability, social equity, and cultural diversity, alongside its commitment to European integration, defines its place on the Croatian political landscape.