LOOKING FOR
THE BEST
STANDARDS
CHALLENGES IN CROATIA’S
FUNERAL INDUSTRY
By Martin Legović, Funeral services
Silentium, Istria, Croatia
he funeral industry in Croatia is not fully
regulated, as the Funeral Services Act
only loosely regulates it. In the mentioned
law, which came into effect in 2015, the
occupation of “undertaker” was finally
introduced, which had not been the case
in Croatia until then.
Becoming a funeral director involves passing an exam
administered by the Croatian Chamber of Crafts,
without the requirement for prior work experience.
However, we would like to see the introduction of
training and experience requirements for the same,
rather than just relying on an exam as a prerequisite
for engaging in this profession. We believe this
approach is unfair to experienced undertakers with
extensive experience in funeral services.
Further, the funeral industry in Croatia faces
challenges due to unclear regulations, particularly
concerning
competition
from
municipal
companies, which arises from ambiguities in
both the Funeral Services Act and the Companies
Act. There is significant unfairness in the market,
as private entities invest in funeral vehicles,
equipment, refrigeration facilities, and more,
influencing
pricing
dynamics.
Meanwhile,
municipal companies receive funding from various
budgets and operate without pursuing profit,
thereby directly impacting prices by undercutting
private companies. However, in order to provide
better services, collaboration with international
organizations and colleagues from abroad enables
us to educate ourselves and implement standards
in our work. These collaborations help us to
improve the quality of services and ensures that
our community receives the best possible support
during times of loss and grief.
Regarding ISO standards in funeral services, they
are generally prescribed for all trades, not just
funeral services, which we also believe should
be clarified. This became apparent during the
coronavirus epidemic, where we, in agreement
with our colleagues, maintained professionalism
to the highest standard, prioritizing the utmost
health and safety of ourselves and our clients. As
for environmental standards in funeral services
in Croatia, they are not prescribed, but we have
found ways to align ourselves with international
counterparts and modernization efforts. Cremation
caskets are sourced from natural, eco-friendly
materials, as are cremation urns, which are
biodegradable.
In
conclusion,
we
strongly
advocate
for
comprehensive regulation of the funeral industry
in Croatia to ensure alignment with global
standards. It is imperative that we keep pace with
advancements and practices prevalent in funeral
services worldwide. Establishing clear guidelines
for training, experience, pricing mechanisms, and
environmental sustainability will not only enhance
professionalism within the industry but also ensure
that we meet the evolving needs and expectations
of our clients. By embracing modernization and
adhering to international best practices, we can
elevate the standards of funeral services in Croatia
and provide a more dignified and sustainable
experience for Families.
16
No. 105 – SPRING 2024 | THANOS MAGAZINE
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