Ivo Josipović (born 28 August 1957) is a Croatian composer, legal scholar and politician. He served as the third President of Croatia from 2010 until 2015. Trained as a jurist and active as a composer, Josipović became notable for blending a professional career in criminal law and university teaching with public office and cultural activity.
Early life and professional background
Josipović studied law at the University of Zagreb and later worked in academia as a professor of criminal law. Alongside his legal career he cultivated a substantial body of musical work: compositions range from chamber pieces and songs to stage works. His dual interests in music and law shaped his public image as a politician with a strong cultural profile.
Political career and presidency (2010–2015)
Entering national politics with the backing of the Social Democratic movement, Josipović was elected president in 2010. During his term he emphasized the rule of law, cooperation with international institutions and regional reconciliation. Croatia completed the process of joining the European Union in 2013 while he was in office, a milestone in which the presidency played a visible supportive role alongside the government.
Musical activity and public controversies
As a composer, Josipović has been involved in composing and promoting new music, and he occasionally spoke about composing for the stage. During the 2010 campaign he announced plans to write an opera inspired by the murder of John Lennon, a proposal that prompted debate about taste, artistic freedom and the role of a head of state in pursuing private projects. The reference to John Lennon drew particular attention in media coverage.
Roles and interests
- Legal scholar and professor of criminal law
- Composer of classical and stage music
- President of Croatia (2010–2015)
- Advocate for European integration and regional cooperation
After leaving the presidency in 2015 he returned to private and cultural life, continuing to combine musical composition with commentary on legal and public affairs. Observers typically remember Josipović for the unusual combination of careers and for presiding during Croatia's accession to the European Union; his tenure also highlighted the intersection of culture and politics in contemporary public life.