Joint statement by the President and the Prime Minister of Slovenia on the decision of the Provincial Parliament of Austrian Styria

2. 7. 2025

Prime Minister of the Republic of Slovenia

Following the decision of the Styrian Provincial Parliament, which at its session on 1 July 2025 approved an amendment to the law on provincial symbols enshrining the Dachsteinlied as the anthem of the Austrian province of Styria, the President of Slovenia and the Prime Minister of the Republic of Slovenia underlined that such moves – using outdated historical symbolism – undermine the harmony and productive cooperation that has been reached between the two nations and are therefore unacceptable.

They take note of the explanation that the lyrics of the song do not express territorial claims against the Republic of Slovenia. Nevertheless, the reference to Slovenian territory as "my beloved homeland" is in total opposition to the internationally recognised border and the shared efforts of EU Member States to foster diverse and inclusive identities. These efforts aim to reflect not imperial histories and nostalgic sentiments, but rather modern values of future-facing coexistence and respect among neighbouring countries and nations.

The President and the Prime Minister of Slovenia note that the actions of the Styrian provincial coalition will have negative consequences for the continuation of the successful institutional cooperation between Slovenia and the Austrian province of Styria.