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State Secretary Neva Grašič attended the General Affairs Council (GAC) in Brussels, where ministers and state secretaries for European affairs held a strategic exchange on the European Democracy Shield, the rule of law and the priorities of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU for this semester. Emphasising the importance of a comprehensive approach to combating disinformation and foreign interference, she also referred to the upcoming elections in Slovenia.

International Holocaust Remembrance Day marks the 81st anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz, the largest and deadliest Nazi concentration camp, on 27 January 1945. With its 1.5 million Jewish victims, Auschwitz stands as a haunting testament to the horrors of the Holocaust. This day not only preserves the memory of the mass atrocities, but also raises awareness to ensure that genocide is never repeated.

Prime Minister Robert Golob was a guest on CNN’s Connect the World with Becky Anderson, where he spoke about the most topical foreign policy issues.

Prime Minister Robert Golob is attending tonight’s working dinner of European Council members in Brussels. The main purpose of this extraordinary meeting is a strategic discussion about recent events concerning transatlantic relations and the European Union’s response to these developments.

The Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia in London is advertising a job position in the consular department – administrator. This is a fantastic opportunity for anyone who likes helping people in a very dynamic and quick pace environment.

Today, the Government continued its series of regional sessions with a visit to the Savinja Region, focusing, this time, on the Celje and Kozje areas. Prime Minister Robert Golob began the visit at the Šmarje pri Jelšah Retirement Home, where he met with residents and toured the facilities. In discussions with management, he saw for himself that, as of January 2026, monthly bills in retirement homes have been significantly reduced.

At today’s session, the Government of the Republic of Slovenia adopted the Decree on the designation of health regions, introducing six health regions with the aim of ensuring the best possible access to healthcare services. The Government also issued the Decree on the preparation and publication of acts in the Official Gazette of the Republic of Slovenia and adopted the position of the Republic of Slovenia in response to the invitation to the Board of Peace.

The first issue of the year brings insights from the Slovenian capital on the conclusion of Slovenia’s second term on the UN Security Council at the end of December 2025. It also features reflections on Slovenia's third term on the UN Human Rights Council, which began on 1 January 2026.

State Secretary Grašič took part in political consultations in Tirana, where she was hosted by Megi Fino, Albanian Deputy Minister at the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs. The discussions reaffirmed the strong and friendly relations between the two countries and focused on Albania’s progress on its path towards EU membership.

Prime Minister Robert Golob made a statement to the media today focusing on current foreign policy developments, particularly with regard to Greenland and the invitation from the President of the Unites States to participate in the Board of Peace.

Prime Minister Robert Golob attended a presentation of two pillars of the national security system of the Republic of Slovenia at Brdo pri Kranju.

Slovenian Consulate General in Cleveland Welcomes You to Special February Events. Everyone is welcome!

Today, Prime Minister Robert Golob attended a ceremony marking the start of the investment in the new wood-energy centre in Kočevska Reka and addressed those present.

Slovenia was presented at the Matka Travel Fair in Helsinki as a green, sustainable destination. Visitors explored Slovenia's natural and cultural heritage and its rich beekeeping tradition through presentations, tastings, and workshops, strengthening visibility in the Nordic market.

The Prime Minister of the Republic of Slovenia, Robert Golob, and Tina Gaber Golob, as well as the President of the Republic of Slovenia, Nataša Pirc Musar, and Aleš Musar, today hosted the traditional New Year's reception for the Diplomatic Corps at Brdo pri Kranju. The President, Prime Minister and the Doyen of the Diplomatic Corps, Msgr Luigi Bianco, also addressed the Diplomatic Corps.

The Ministry of Cohesion and Regional Development has approved EU funding for the call for proposals Developing competence and innovative approaches for managing dementia. The call will make EUR 2.7 million available and will receive nearly EUR 1.7 million from the European Social Fund Plus.

Slovenia welcomes the signing of the Partnership Agreement (EMPA) and the Interim Trade Agreement (ITA) between the European Union (EU) and Mercosur. These agreements are the result of over 25 years of negotiations. The two legally distinct instruments run in parallel and together establish a comprehensive framework for enhanced political, economic and sectoral cooperation between the EU and Mercosur countries.

At a correspondence session, the Government of the Republic of Slovenia adopted a decision on the participation of two officers of the Slovenian Armed Forces in the planning and implementation of the international military exercise Arctic Endurance led by the Kingdom of Denmark with the aim of strengthening regional security.

The success of Slovenian companies in foreign markets is proof that Slovenia has a knowledge-based, quality-driven economy with a long-term focus on development. The companies Ensol 360 and Vinakoper demonstrate that internationally recognised stories can be created from local environments. These companies generate jobs, promote regional development and boost the country's reputation.

Today, as part of the Government’s regional visit to the Obalno-kraška region, which began with a Government session at the Port of Koper, Prime Minister Robert Golob also visited the Izola Care Home and the Izola General Hospital.

Minister of Cohesion and Regional Development Dr Aleksander Jevšek, State Secretary Srečko Đurov and their team visited the Obalno-kraška region today. After the government session in Koper, the Minister met with representatives of the Koper Regional Development Centre and then assessed the results of Cohesion Policy in the region.

The Government visited the Coastal–Karst Region. In the morning, it held a regular session at the Port of Koper, followed by separate programmes of individual ministers. In the afternoon, a consultation with representatives of the business community and mayors took place in Lipica.

The Government has adopted a decision declaring 19 May as Lipizzan Day in the Republic of Slovenia. The date holds special historical and cultural significance for Slovenia, as it was on 19 May 1580 that the document establishing the Lipica Stud Farm was signed – one of the most recognisable symbols of Slovenia's heritage.

At today’s session, the Government took note of the information on the state and pressures affecting the Slovenian sea. It proclaimed 19 May as Lipizzaner Day, adopted a decision to conclude agreements on the transfer of founder’s rights and obligations from a private university to the newly established public University of Novo Mesto, and concluded an agreement on the gratuitous transfer of state-owned land to the Municipality of Koper.

Minister Matjaž Han yesterday participated in a public discussion with UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin, organised as part of the SPORTO Talk in Ljubljana.

The Ministry of Cohesion and Regional Development has issued a funding decision for the DRR RCPS LUR project. A financial contribution from the Cohesion Fund will be allocated to support the implementation of strategic planning.

Today, the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of Slovenia summoned the Iranian Ambassador for talks. During the meeting, the Ministry expressed its serious concerns about the current situation in the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Prime Minister Robert Golob met today with former NASA astronaut Sunita Williams, one of the most accomplished and renowned American astronauts.

Today, the Ministry of Cohesion and Regional Development hosted an expert consultation on the development of the local development programme and public health programme within the framework of the Norwegian Financial Mechanism and the European Economic Area (EEA) Financial Mechanism for the period 2021-2028. The purpose of the consultation was to align the content of both programmes and to discuss the next steps in the programming process.

January 26th in the afternoon and January 27th 2026 in the morning the Consulate General will be offering consular hours in the Chicago, Illinois area.

Today, Prime Minister Robert Golob visited the Slovenian Institute of Quality and Metrology (SIQ Ljubljana).

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Tanja Fajon hosted a visit by Maxime Prévot, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, European Affairs and Development Cooperation of the Kingdom of Belgium. The visit underscored the close and friendly relations between the two countries and provided an opportunity to further strengthen bilateral cooperation and political dialogue.

On January 1, 2026, the Republic of Slovenia took over the chairmanship of the Central European Defence Cooperation (CEDC) initiative. The initiative was established in 2010. It currently brings together the defence ministries of six countries: Austria, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Slovakia and Slovenia. Poland participates in the meetings as an observer.

The Ministry of Cohesion and Regional Development has issued a funding decision for the project Comprehensive treatment and management of addiction in the prison system. The project will receive European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) support.

Today, Prime Minister Robert Golob attended the central 69th commemorative ceremony marking the three-day Battle of Dražgoše. At the event, the Prime Minister was the keynote speaker and also laid a wreath.

Today, Prime Minister Robert Golob attended the central commemorative ceremony marking the anniversary of the final battle of the Pohorje Battalion and the Memorial Day of the Municipality of Slovenska Bistrica. At the event, the Prime Minister was the keynote speaker and also laid a wreath.

The National Payments Council, of which the Ministry of Finance is a member, has decided to actively inform consumers about their right to a basic payment account. For this purpose, informational leaflets with the slogan Nobody without a payment account are available to consumers, providing key information about basic payment account in a clear and concise manner.

In the latest episode of the GOVSI podcast, we continue exploring the topic of disinformation and information warfare. This time, our guest is Mykhailo Dankanych, a Ukrainian veteran and expert in countering Russian disinformation, who warns that the information front is not taking place only in Ukraine, but also within the European Union.

The Government visited the Primorska-Notranjska region. In the morning, it held a regular session in Ilirska Bistrica, after which the Prime Minister, ministers and ministerial colleagues continued with working visits across the region. The visit concluded with a consultation meeting with representatives of the business sector and mayors in Postojna.

As part of today's government visit to the Primorsko-Notranjska region, the Minister for Cohesion and Regional Development Dr Aleksander Jevšek visited EU projects that improve the quality of life of local people. He also stopped at the site of the Ilirska Bistrica waterworks that provides a safe and reliable water supply for over 10,000 residents.

As part of the Government’s regional visit to the Primorsko-Notranjska region, Prime Minister Robert Golob met with residents and staff of the Ilirska Bistrica Care Home.

At today's session, the Government adopted the proposed Promotion of the Competitiveness and Decarbonisation of Electro-Intensive Companies Act and the proposed amendments to the acts regulating spatial planning, mining, nuclear damage liability, road tolling and accessibility of products and services for people with disabilities. It also approved the proposal for an Act on International Treaties and Other International Acts.

The Government of the Republic of Slovenia has finalised the wording of the draft Act on Treaties and Other International Instruments. This area is currently regulated by the Foreign Affairs Act. However, due to the specific nature and evolving dynamics of international relations, separate legislation is needed to enable more rapid adaptation to new circumstances.

Slovenia is preparing for the Winter Olympics, to be held in neighbouring Italy in February 2026. The Olympic Games are one of the strongest global platforms for a country’s promotion, so Slovenia will take this opportunity to present itself under the I feel Slovenia national brand at the Slovenia House located in the immediate vicinity of the main Olympic events in Cortina d'Ampezzo.

At the invitation of French President Emmanuel Macron, Prime Minister Robert Golob attended the meeting of leaders of the Coalition of the Willing, a group of countries supporting Ukraine.

On Monday, 5 January 2026, the Republic of Slovenia, rated A3 (positive) / AA (stable) / A+ (stable), successfully accessed the international capital markets with a EUR 1.75bn Reg S issuance due 12 March 2036. Slovenia opened up the 2026 capital markets in a spectacular way, issuing the first sovereign bond of the year. Kicking off the year with this benchmark, Slovenia benefitted from extraordinary investor demand, pre-empting a busy new issue pipeline.

Iceland, Ireland, Luxembourg, Malta, Norway, Slovenia and Spain condemn the latest Israeli legislation targeting UNRWA, including measures to cut water, electricity and communications to its facilities. Such actions undermine the UN mandate, violate international law and run counter to the findings of the International Court of Justice, while risking grave humanitarian consequences for the Palestinian civilian population and refugees.

January 31st 2026 the Consulate General will be offering consular hours in Indianapolis, Indiana.

The Republic of Slovenia, rated A3 (positive) / AA (stable) / A+ (stable), has mandated Barclays, DZ BANK, HSBC, J.P. Morgan, OTP Banka Slovenia and Raiffeisen Bank International to lead manage a new benchmark EUR transaction with a 10-year tenor. The transaction will be Regulation S in dematerialised registered form. The deal is expected to be launched in the near future, subject to market conditions.

On 1 January 2026, Slovenia begins its three-year term as a member of the UN Human Rights Council, based in Geneva. This marks Slovenia’s third term on this key UN body, whose mandate is to promote, strengthen and protect human rights worldwide.

The online column Archivalia of the Month has been published since January 2011. Its purpose is to promote the Archives of the Republic of Slovenia and its archival holdings. Presented in the column are archival documents that are interesting visually and content-wise, as well as newly acquired documents or the ones that have so far been overlooked. Also published are documents relating to various anniversaries, current events and many more.

The Archivalia of the Month section features the Archivalia of the month of January, which is dedicated to the history of the construction of the Home Guard barracks (Domobranska vojašnica) at the intersection of Roška and Poljanska streets in Ljubljana. Built at the turn of the 20th century, the building served as a military facility until 1991. Following its decommissioning, its purpose was changed, and it has since served as a home for cultural heritage.

On the last day of the old year, the Prime Minister visited teams on duty at the University Medical Centre Ljubljana, the Institute of Oncology Ljubljana and the Ljubljana Fire Brigade.

Slovenia has completed its second Council presidency, thus concluding its two-year membership of the UN Security Council.

Slovenia today concludes its two-year term on the United Nations Security Council. On this occasion, the Prime Minister issued the following statement.

During its two-year term on the Security Council, Slovenia has proven its ability to contribute significantly to tackling the most pressing global issues by taking clear positions, upholding its values, sharing its expertise and maintaining consistency. With active, responsible and principled work, Slovenia has left a recognisable mark on the UN’s central body for the maintenance of international peace and security, further strengthening its own reputation as a credible and reliable partner.

The Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia in Tehran will be closed on Thursday, 1 January 2026, due to the holiday season.

Dear citizens, dear Slovenians at home and abroad, as the year slowly draws to a close and we prepare for a new chapter, I would like to pause for a moment together with you.

Dear citizens, dear Slovenians at home and abroad,

The Ministry of Cohesion and Regional Development has issued a funding decision for the project Agreement on the development of the region: Regional integrated transport strategy Severna Primorska. Strategic planning will be supported by the Cohesion Fund.

Prime Minister Robert Golob was this evening the keynote speaker at the state celebration marking Independence and Unity Day. Prime Minister’s speech on this occasion was not a classic political address. Instead, it was a personal and sincere reflection on who we have become as a nation and as a community over 35 years of independence, and on where we wish to go.

The Archives of the Republic of Slovenia wishes you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year 2026.

The Ministry of Cohesion and Regional Development has issued a funding decision for the project Renovation of the Štibuh sports field. The project will be co-funded by the European Regional Development Fund.

The Ministry of Cohesion and Regional Development has issued a funding decision for the project Regional integrated transport strategy of Jugovzhodna Slovenija region. The project will receive Cohesion Fund support.

The amendment introduces a new regional development model based on innovation-driven growth, which will enable accelerated development in all regions and Slovenia as a whole, as well as a higher quality of life for all residents.

The Ministry of the Environment, Climate and Energy has published a call for proposals funded by the Second Swiss Contribution, with a total value of EUR 13.8 million.

The Ministry of Cohesion and Regional Development has approved EU funding for the call for proposals Supporting start-up ecosystem in Slovenia in the period 2026-2029 (JR Startup Consortium 26-29). A financial contribution from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) will be allocated for the implementation of the call, which will be published on 24 December 2025.

The Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia in Tirana will be closed on the following days:

Prime Minister Robert Golob attended the December meeting of the European Council in Brussels, where leaders agreed to ensure financial support to Ukraine for 2026 and 2027 through joint borrowing on the capital markets, with loan guarantees provided by the EU budget.

The Republic of Slovenia's Recovery and Resilience Office has submitted its fifth request to the European Commission (EC) for the payment of funds from the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF), with a total gross value of EUR 266.84 million.

The Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia in Copenhagen marked the Day of Independence and Unity of the Republic of Slovenia, together with the approaching Christmas and New Year holidays, in a festive and cordial atmosphere that reflected both national pride and the spirit of the season.

The Ministry of Cohesion and Regional Development has issued a funding decision for the call for proposals Incentives for projects included in Important Project of Common European Interest (IPCEI) Hydrogen. Published today, the strategic call for proposals will receive support from the European Regional Development Fund.

Prime Minister Robert Golob is attending the December meeting of the European Council in Brussels. The summit will focus on the discussion regarding financial support for Ukraine for 2026 and 2027 in the context of intensive diplomatic efforts for a lasting and just peace in Ukraine, which has been the subject of intense debate at the highest levels in recent weeks.

The Ministry of Cohesion and Regional Development has issued a funding decision for the project with the acronym DRR RCM POSAVJE. The project will promote the development of modern and environmentally friendly travel habits in the region. A total of €226,000 has been allocated to the project, with funding provided by the Cohesion Fund and the state budget.

The 2nd European Science Diplomacy Conference is being held under the Danish Presidency of the Council of the European Union. Peter Japelj, Director-General of the Directorate for Economic, Cultural and Science Diplomacy at the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs, participated in the opening panel entitled European science diplomacy in a rapidly changing world.

On 17 December this year, the Government of the Republic of Slovenia, as the founder and sole shareholder of the company Slovenska tiskovna agencija, d. o. o. (Slovenian Press Agency), concluded a contract for the provision of public service by the Slovenian Press Agency (STA). The contract was signed at the premises of the Government Communication Office (UKOM) by the Office's Director Petra Bezjak Cirman, who was authorised to sign and implement the contract under the authority of the Government, and the STA Director Mojca Prelesnik.

On the Independence and Unity Day, President Dr. Nataša Pirc Musar awarded the Archives of the Republic of Slovenia the Golden Order for Merits. The national archives received the decoration for its exceptional importance in preserving cultural heritage and managing the archival public service. The award is a confirmation of our mission and belongs to all generations of archivists who care for our national memory.

The Ministry of Cohesion and Regional Development has approved EU funding for the project Specializations in nursing and midwifery. The €8 million project that will be supported by the European Social Fund Plus and the Republic of Slovenia marks an important step to ensuring long-term stability and quality of Slovenia's public healthcare system.

At today's session, the Government adopted the Decree laying down more detailed rules and criteria for granting state aid to the media and set out the text of the proposed Resolution on the National Healthcare Plan in Slovenia 2026–2035. It also gave its consent to the promotion of Brigadier Boštjan Močnik to the rank of General.

At its meeting on 17 December 2025, the Government of the Republic of Slovenia issued an Ordinance amending the Ordinance on the temporary reintroduction of border controls at the internal borders of the Republic of Slovenia with the Republic of Croatia and the Republic of Hungary.

Today, the Government took note of the Information on the Implementation of the Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP), which will be submitted to the National Assembly of the Republic of Slovenia. The Government also discussed the Report on the Implementation of the Recovery and Resilience Plan before submitting the fifth payment request.

The Ministry of Cohesion and Regional Development has approved EU funding for the call for proposals Incentives for the development and manufacturing of strategic technologies for Europe – Call for proposals STEP.

Prime Minister Robert Golob and his wife Tina Gaber Golob hosted a pre-Christmas charity reception. Ministers of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia were invited to the reception together with their spouses or partners.

Prime Minister Golob today hosted Evangelical Bishop Aleksander Erniša and his predecessor Leon Novak.

On behalf of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia, the Director of the Government Communication Office, Petra Bezjak Cirman, attended a press conference of the Olympic Committee of Slovenia, where she presented the Slovenia House that will be open in Cortina d’Ampezzo during the Olympic Winter Games.

The Ministry of Cohesion and Regional Development has approved financial contribution from the European Social Fund Plus to the project Modernisation of the information system of the Public Scholarship, Development, Disability and Maintenance Fund of the Republic of Slovenia. The project will help enhance responsiveness to the needs of a rapidly changing labour market.

State Secretary Neva Grašič participated in the General Affairs Council meeting in Brussels, which focused on the draft European Council conclusions, the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) 2028–2034 and conclusions on EU enlargement. The three EU institutions approved the joint declaration on EU legislative priorities for 2026, and ministers were briefed on progress on legislative simplification and on the roadmap for the 2026 European Semester.

Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Tanja Fajon led the Slovenian delegation at the Diplomatic Conference for the Adoption of the Convention Establishing an International Claims Commission for Ukraine. This Council of Europe Open Convention establishes an international reparation mechanism for damage, loss or injury arising from the internationally wrongful acts of the Russian Federation in or against Ukraine.

The Ministry of Cohesion and Regional Development has approved financial contribution from the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) for the project Include and activate (ViA2).

The Ministry of Cohesion and Regional Development has approved financial contribution from the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) for the call for proposals Development and implementation of new forms of mental health support and capacity building programmes (shorter: Implementation of new forms of mental health support).

Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Tanja Fajon participated in the meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council, where EU ministers discussed Russia’s aggression against Ukraine in all its dimensions. Topics included efforts to achieve a just and lasting peace, continued support for Ukraine and maintaining pressure on Russia. Ministers also exchanged views on developments in the Middle East and on EU-China relations.

The Ministry of Cohesion and Regional Development has approved European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) support for the project Purchase of audio recording equipment. The project will result in the complete replacement of outdated audio recording equipment in medium and small courtrooms in Slovenian courts with new, modern technology.

The Ministry of Cohesion and Regional Development has approved European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) support for the project Restoration of cultural heritage for the interpretation of Natura 2000 – the Grad Castle (EŠD 159).

The Ministry for Cohesion and Regional Development has approved European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) support for the Call for proposals for the development of culture and arts education (CAE) projects in the fields of film, music, performing arts, and visual arts (Public Call ESF_CAE FMVA 2025–2029). The Ministry of Culture will implement the call in the first half of January 2026.

The Council of the European Union, meeting in the composition of Finance Ministers, today approved the fourth amendment to Slovenia's Recovery and Resilience Plan. A total of EUR 2.14 billion from the Recovery and Resilience Facility is now available for its implementation, of which EUR 526 million in loans (previously EUR 613 million) and an unchanged amount of grants worth EUR 1.61 billion.

The Ministry of Cohesion and Regional Development has approved European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) support for two key healthcare system projects. The total amount of support for both investments, implemented by the Ministry of Health, stands at nearly EUR six million. The projects will improve the quality, accessibility, and safety of healthcare in the Koroška region and Maribor.

This evening's ceremony marking the 10th anniversary of the Planica Nordic Centre, entitled Ten years of pride. Pride for the future, celebrated the achievements of the first decade of this unique sports centre and highlighted its great importance for Slovenian sport, tourism and the country's international visibility.

The Government of the Republic of Slovenia has adopted the Act on the Developmental Restructuring of the Savinjsko-Šaleška (SAŠA) Coal Region, aimed at mitigating the consequences of the gradual coal phase-out in the Savinjsko-Šaleška coal region, in accordance with just transition principles.

At today’s session, the Government adopted several draft acts, including draft acts on the Slovenian Press Agency, on the developmental restructuring of the Savinja–Šalek coal region, and on nursing and midwifery. Brigadier MSc Boštjan Močnik was appointed Chief of the General Staff of the Slovenian Armed Forces.

The Ministry of Cohesion and Regional Development has approved financial contribution from the Cohesion Fund for the project Agreement on the Development of Region: Regional Mobility Centre Green Karst. The project will be implemented under priority five Sustainable (cross-) regional mobility and connectivity in the framework of Slovenia's EU Cohesion Policy Programme 2021-2027.