Tina Eterović Čubrilo Receives Milan Grlović Journalism Award for Lifetime Contribution

The Croatian Journalists’ Association awarded the prestigious Milan Grlović Journalism Award to veteran journalist Tina Eterović Čubrilo, recognizing her decades-long contribution to the development, credibility, and advancement of Croatian journalism.

The Milan Grlović Journalism Award is presented annually to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional journalistic excellence, made significant contributions to the development of journalism in Croatia, and strengthened the profession’s reputation, credibility, and independence.

The role of journalism in society is often measured not only by the stories it tells, but by the integrity, dedication, and impact of those who tell them. In recognition of such contributions, the Croatian Journalists’ Association continues its annual tradition of honoring outstanding media professionals during Journalism Day.

A long-standing member of the Croatian Journalists’ Association since 1970, Eterović Čubrilo is also a recipient of the Association’s Golden Pen Award, one of the organization’s notable distinctions recognizing high-quality journalistic work.

Throughout her extensive career, she has played a significant leadership role within the journalistic community. She served two terms as president of the Croatian Radio Journalists’ Association and has been an active member of the HND Central Board. In addition, she held multiple terms as president and vice-president of the Association’s Tourist Journalists’ section, contributing to the development and visibility of specialized journalism in Croatia.

Eterović Čubrilo is also the president of the Croatian branch of the World Federation of Tourist Journalists and Writers (FIJET), an international organization dedicated to promoting tourism journalism and cultural exchange through media.

In 2006, she initiated the establishment of the Marco Polo Award, created to recognize and honor Croatian journalists and travel writers for their professional excellence and contribution to tourism journalism.

Her influence extends beyond professional associations. She was among the founding members of the Croatian Journalists’ Union at Radio Zagreb in its early formation and played an active role in defending journalists’ rights during the Homeland War, a period that posed significant challenges to press freedom and media professionals in Croatia.

Over the decades, Tina Eterović Čubrilo’s work has reflected a consistent commitment to strengthening journalistic standards, advocating for professional rights, and supporting the development of both national and international journalism networks.

The awarding of the Milan Grlović Journalism Award marks not only a recognition of her individual achievements but also a broader acknowledgment of her enduring contribution to the profession.

Her career stands as a testament to journalistic dedication, institutional leadership, and lifelong service to media freedom and professional excellence in Croatia and beyond.

Congratulations to Tina Eterović Čubrilo on this distinguished honor.