About
Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović is a Croatian politician and diplomat who made history as the first woman to be elected President of Croatia, serving from 2015 to 2020. She was also the youngest person to assume the presidency at the age of 46. Prior to her presidency, she held various diplomatic positions, including serving as Croatia's ambassador to the United States. As president, she focused on promoting Croatia's interests internationally and addressing domestic issues such as economic development and social equality. Her tenure was marked by efforts to strengthen Croatia's role within the European Union and the broader international community.
Career Timeline
Croatian Foreign Minister
Grabar-Kitarović was appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs and European Integration, becoming the youngest and first female to hold the position. This role raised her profile in Croatian politics and European diplomatic circles.
Ambassador to the United States
She was appointed Croatia's ambassador to the US during a crucial period of Croatia's NATO accession. This diplomatic posting enhanced her international experience and connections while keeping her somewhat removed from domestic Croatian politics.
NATO Assistant Secretary General
Grabar-Kitarović became the first woman to serve as NATO Assistant Secretary General for Public Diplomacy. This prestigious international position significantly elevated her profile and prepared her for higher political office.
Elected President of Croatia
She made history as Croatia's first female president and youngest person to hold the office at age 46. This victory made her a household name in Croatia and gained her some international recognition as a barrier-breaking leader.
World Cup viral moment
Grabar-Kitarović gained global attention for celebrating enthusiastically with fans during Croatia's historic FIFA World Cup final run, flying economy and wearing the national jersey. The viral moments temporarily elevated her international profile, though this was largely fleeting celebrity rather than lasting recognition.
Loses re-election bid
She narrowly lost her re-election campaign to Zoran Milanović, ending her presidency after one term. The defeat significantly diminished her political relevance and marked the beginning of her fade from the spotlight.
IOC member appointment
After leaving office, she was elected to the International Olympic Committee, providing a new platform but with far less prominence than the presidency. This position kept her in public life but with greatly reduced visibility and influence.
Former president with limited recognition
Six years after losing re-election, Grabar-Kitarović is remembered in Croatia but has limited international recognition. While she broke barriers as Croatia's first female president, her brief tenure and lack of major lasting achievements place her in the moderate fame category with niche appeal.
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Last updated: February 23, 2026