Original scientific paper
https://doi.org/10.5673/sip.63.2.4
Prevalence and Public Perception of Vegetarianism and Veganism: A Comparative Analysis of Nationally Representative Samples from Slovenia and Croatia
Aleš Črnič
; University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Social Sciences, Slovenia
Vanesa Korže
; University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Social Sciences, Slovenia
Abstract
Although research on vegetarianism and veganism (veg*ism) has expanded significantly,
cross-national studies of its general perception remain limited. This study empirically
analyses nationally representative samples from Slovenia and Croatia. The results indicate
the domi-nance of meat-based culture in both countries, with veg*ism remaining a marginal
phenome-non. Public attitudes towards veg*ism are largely negative, although slightly less so
in Croatia than in Slovenia. Cluster analysis reveals three distinct groups: those strongly dismissive,
those moderately favourable, and an intermediate group that is not persuaded by the
argu-ments for giving up animal products but is the least critical of the practice of veganism
itself, suggesting that personal rejection of its reasoning does not necessarily equate to rejection
of the practice. In Croatia, the dismissive group is notably smaller and the favourable group
larg-er than in Slovenia. Women and younger people in both countries have less negative
attitudes towards veganism. Education plays a significant role only in Slovenia, where more
educated individuals are more receptive to classical arguments for veg*ism and less averse to
veganism. Finally, we propose a short set of questions that could be included in one of the
large periodic international surveys to allow for a comprehensive assessment of the social and
cultural di-mensions of veg*ism and its perception across different societies and cultures.
Keywords
vegetarianism; veganism; meat consumption; Slovenia; Croatia; cluster analysis
Hrčak ID:
340336
URI
Publication date:
30.10.2025.
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