PROMJENA BROJA STANOVNIKA KARLOVAČKE ŽUPANIJE OD 1857. DO 2001. GODINE
Changes in Population Numbers of the Karlovac County in the Period between 1857 and 2001

Summary/Abstract: The Karlovac County belongs within the negative pole of the demographic and economic development of Croatia. The negative demographic trends have been present in the Karlovac County for a long time. These trends have gradually worsened since the 1970s culminating in the period after 1991. The most significant 459 demographic characteristic of the observed area is depopulation. Therefore, in this paper the author has researched the changing population numbers in all the past censuses in order to determine the intensity of these changes throughout specific periods. Census population change is the most accurate indicator of demographic dynamics in any area. The causes of the current negative demographic situation are mostly a result of poor economic circumstances, due to years of insufficient investment planning in the area. In recent years the most important factor has been the Croatian War of Independence, which has further deteriorated the already unsatisfactory demographic characteristics. Population projections until the year 2021 indicate continuing negative features and trends of the demographic development of the County. In order for a breakthrough to occur there should be systematic stimulative measures for demographic renewal and economic development, which should be encouraged by all levels of government. Such measures should first be taken in the transportationally isolated rural areas of the County, as well as in places which were directly exposed to destruction during the Croatian War of Independence.

• Details
• Contents