Emeis (formerly Orpea) workers secure better pay and conditions with landmark collective bargaining agreement in Croatia

In a historic achievement, unionized workers at Senecura Novaki, owned by the Emeis, the company formerly know as Orpea, have signed the first-ever collective bargaining agreement (CBA) in Croatia’s private elderly care sector. This milestone marks a major step forward for workers’ rights in a field often characterized by severe understaffing, long hours, and low pay.

The agreement, negotiated by members of RIS (RITU) with support from UNI Global Union, introduces significant improvements to working conditions, including:

• More vacation days, particularly for experienced workers and parents of young children
• Automatic alignment of salaries with inflation to address rising living costs
• Increased bonuses and overtime pay

Domagoj Kolarić, caregiver and union shop steward at Senecura Novaki, highlighted the importance of the achievement: “We managed to solve some very important issues for us. More vacation days and pay increases based on experience give us more time to rest and a sense of security. But most importantly, we negotiated these changes ourselves, and now everything is clearly written in the collective agreement.”

After nine months of organizing and collective bargaining, the workers at Senecura Novaki have not only improved their own conditions but have set a powerful example for their peers across the sector. Senecura, the largest private provider of elderly care in Croatia, operates three facilities and employs over 130 workers. This agreement demonstrates that positive change is achievable through unionization and dialogue.

Nikola Ptić, Secretary of RIS (RITU), praised the workers’ efforts and underscored the broader significance of the deal: “This is a huge achievement for long-term care workers in Croatia. In less than a year, workers at Senecura Novaki organized and secured a strong CBA. Yes, we had favorable circumstances — access to workers through the Global Agreement between UNI Global Union and Emeis, rising public sector wages, and an open management. But ultimately, it was the workers who took matters into their own hands and won these improvements. “This agreement sends a clear message: it is possible to have a voice at your workplace and make meaningful changes. We hope this victory inspires other private nursing home workers to organize and fight for better conditions.”

A Global Agreement for Ethical Employment

This historic win was made possible through the Global Agreement between UNI Global Union and Emeis (formerly the Orpea Group). The agreement promotes ethical employment, social dialogue, and collective bargaining, ensuring that workers’ rights remain a priority alongside the quality of care provided to residents.

By linking improved working conditions to service quality and the dignity of elderly residents, this partnership sets a new standard for private long-term care providers worldwide. The success of Senecura Novaki workers serves as a beacon for others in the private care sector in Croatia and beyond. It proves that through collective action and negotiation, workers can secure fair pay, better conditions, and a voice in decisions that shape their lives and workplaces.