Boris Šprem, Croatian lawyer and politician, 8th President of Croatian Parliament (d. 2012)

Boris Šprem, a prominent Croatian politician and a key figure within the Social Democratic Party of Croatia (SDP), served with distinction as the Speaker of the Croatian Parliament, known locally as the Sabor. His tenure, though tragically cut short, spanned from late 2011 until his passing in September 2012. Šprem’s life journey, marked by a commitment to public service, culminated in this significant role, making his untimely death a particularly poignant moment in the nation’s modern political history.

Born on April 14, 1956, Boris Šprem pursued a career rooted in legal expertise, graduating with a law degree from the University of Zagreb. Before ascending to the highest echelons of Croatian politics, he held various professional roles that honed his administrative and legal acumen, including serving as the director of the Zagreb City Institute for the Protection of Cultural and Natural Monuments. His political career saw him actively involved in local government, including membership in the Zagreb City Assembly, and he also served as an advisor to the Prime Minister, gaining invaluable experience in national governance.

A Brief but Historic Speakership

Boris Šprem was elected to the Croatian Parliament, the Sabor, in both the 2007 and 2011 general elections, demonstrating his growing influence and public trust. His election as Speaker of the Parliament on December 22, 2011, placed him at the helm of Croatia's legislative body, a position of immense responsibility in a young democratic state navigating its path within Europe. As Speaker, he was tasked with overseeing parliamentary proceedings, ensuring the smooth functioning of legislative debate, and representing the Sabor both domestically and internationally.

Tragically, Šprem’s service as Speaker was curtailed by illness. Diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a form of cancer, he sought treatment in Vienna, Austria. It was there, on September 30, 2012, that he passed away at the age of 56. His death sent ripples through the Croatian political landscape, not only due to the loss of a respected statesman but also because of its historical significance. Boris Šprem became the first, and to date, only Speaker of the Croatian Parliament to die while holding office since Croatia declared its independence from the former Yugoslavia in 1991. This unique and somber distinction underscores the profound impact of his passing on the national consciousness, highlighting the human element at the heart of political leadership.

Frequently Asked Questions about Boris Šprem

Who was Boris Šprem?
Boris Šprem was a Croatian politician, a member of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), and notably served as the Speaker of the Croatian Parliament (Sabor) from late 2011 until his death in 2012.
What was his significant political role?
His most significant role was serving as the Speaker of the Croatian Parliament, which is the highest legislative position in Croatia. He held this office from December 22, 2011, until September 30, 2012.
When did Boris Šprem live and die?
He was born on April 14, 1956, and passed away on September 30, 2012.
Why was his death particularly noteworthy in Croatian history?
Boris Šprem was the first, and as of now, the only Speaker of the Croatian Parliament to die while holding office since the country gained its independence in 1991. This made his passing a unique and somber event in Croatia's modern political annals.
What was the cause of his death?
He passed away due to multiple myeloma, a type of cancer, while undergoing treatment in Vienna, Austria.
Which political party did Boris Šprem belong to?
Boris Šprem was a prominent member of the Social Democratic Party of Croatia (SDP).