Branko Zlobko assumes office as the Minister

Newly appointed Minister Branko Zlobko stated in a press briefing following the handover of duties that he is assuming office at a demanding moment. “My priorities will focus on strengthening security, safeguarding public order and peace, restoring citizens’ trust in state institutions, and upholding the principles of the rule of law to guarantee equal treatment for all—regardless of their background, religion, or socio-economic status.”

He drew particular attention to issues concerning Roma communities in southeastern Slovenia. “I will actively engage in resolving the current security situation. I believe dialogue is indispensable – both with residents living in the vicinity of problematic Roma settlements and with members of the Roma community. Accordingly, one of my first actions will be to visit the Roma settlements, meet with their representatives or elders, and subsequently hold discussions with municipal authorities.”

Minister Zlobko also underscored the pressing staffing challenges within the police force.
“In this regard, I am considering initiating an analysis of the potential establishment of a secondary-level police training school,” he stated.

Outgoing Minister Boštjan Poklukar noted that he is leaving the ministry in excellent condition and expressed gratitude to his colleagues for their cooperation. “The solutions developed at the Ministry of the Interior were the result of our collective efforts and were pursued for the benefit of all employees of the Slovenian police and the ministry,” he said. He highlighted several achievements from his term, including the adoption of multiple legislative acts (the draft Public Order Act and the draft Firearms Act remain under parliamentary consideration), along with the signing of a contract for the procurement of two specialized helicopters for emergency medical services, constructive dialogue with police unions and veterans’ associations, and strengthened efforts to promote careers within the police. “We are witnessing a positive trend in police recruitment, which confirms the effectiveness of our promotional activities. The police youth camp held this year in Gotenica further encouraged young people to consider a career in policing.” He further highlighted a significant decline in irregular migration and the close cooperation with Croatia and Italy in trilateral joint patrols. Minister Poklukar extended his congratulations to the new minister and wished him every success in his work.