Message from Prime Minister Robert Golob on Reformation Day

Today, we look back with respect and pride, on a time, almost 500 years ago, when the Slovenian nation was ignited with a spark of language, spirit and courage. Reformation Day is a cultural holiday serving as a reminder that there is no nation without a language.

When Primož Trubar first wrote "My Beloved Slovenians", he gave us all something priceless – words in our own language. He did this in the belief that knowledge and literacy would set us free. At the time, the book represented the latest technology and was a symbol of progress, bringing the Slovenian people together in their centuries-long struggle for independence. It reminded us that speaking, reading and thinking in our own language should not be taken for granted.

The Reformation was not only a religious movement; it was also a movement of reason and heart. A movement that laid the foundations for the Slovenian language, literacy and independent thinking. These are also the foundations of our modern society, shaped by the values of knowledge, curiosity, courage, openness to dialogue and pride in our roots.

At a time of rapid change, it is these values that teach us to build the future with a clear vision of the way forward. Just as the Reformers believed in the power of books, we now believe in the power of knowledge, cooperation and community.

Today, we are living in a period of numerous technological and social turning points. Artificial intelligence is not just a technological achievement; it marks a new chapter in the story of humanity. Just as the Reformation opened up knowledge and language to everyone, it is our responsibility to use the new technologies – today’s symbols of progress – to preserve the Slovenian language and integrate it into the modern digital world for the common good, ensuring greater knowledge, accessibility and integration. To build a society based on understanding, tolerance and harmony. A society that remains connected to its language.

We believe that the Slovenian language can live and grow if it is nurtured and given a place in schools, culture, public life and new technologies. And if we have faith in ourselves. Because the power of a nation lies in its language. And the power of language lies in a nation that has faith in itself.

On Reformation Day, let us honour all those who laid the foundations of our language and national identity. We owe it to their legacy to think with our head, speak in our voice and walk our path with confidence, courage and pride.

My sincere congratulations on Reformation Day.

Robert Golob

Prime Minister of the Republic of Slovenia