By: Dr Metod Berlec
The year 2025 is behind us. We will remember it for the many harmful moves of Robert Golob’s far‑left government, composed of the Freedom Movement, SD, and Levica, a government that ignores the opposition, let alone experts; a government that drives even the professional structures of the public administration and ministries to the brink, since it respects neither legislation nor established (professional and democratic) procedures. It is steering the Republic of Slovenia in a completely wrong direction. The former president of the National Assembly, France Cukjati, summed up its rule well for this issue of Demokracija when he said that they “treat the state and its citizens like a bull in a China shop.” This captures the essence of the current situation: an arrogant, conceited, self‑satisfied authority that disregards the people, the Slovenian nation, yet clings to power by all means.
But the last few months have brought a sudden shift. The government, which had previously raised taxes, increased burdens, and squeezed taxpayers, suddenly began handing out so‑called pre‑election goodies. Extending the validity of the motorway vignette, the Christmas bonus or winter allowance for employees, and other measures were presented as generous acts, but in reality they are primarily an attempt to buy favour before the elections. There remains hope that voters will not fall for such cheap demagoguery, but will on 22 March 2026 be able to judge who has led Slovenia responsibly and who has not. The centre‑right opposition parties, led by SDS, are counting on citizens to reward those who advocate stability, security, and sound economic policy, and who have the knowledge and experience to lead the Slovenian national state in times of crisis.
Meanwhile, the world is shaken by conflicts, the worst of which remains the war in Ukraine. Hopes that it might end in 2026 are tied to the intensive efforts of the United States under President Donald Trump. But even if an agreement is reached, it will be a compromise that will not be just – Russia has seized nearly one‑fifth of Ukrainian territory. Such an outcome would mean a frozen conflict, yet still less suffering than a war in which hundreds, if not thousands, of soldiers die every week on both sides. The European Union will again face questions about its own future, even its existence. Brussels continues its attempts to deepen integration, strengthen federal powers, and reduce the sovereignty of member states, which naturally demands a response. For Slovenia, the key question will be whether it can defend its sovereignty and interests or whether it will succumb to the pressures of European unitary bureaucratic structures.
And one final existential thought, relevant both for Slovenia and for Europe, which finds itself in a demographic winter. Instead of so‑called safe abortion and a culture of death, we must promote a culture of life. We must encourage joy in life, a higher birth rate, for young people are our future. For Slovenia as a Slovenian national state!
Wishing you all the best in 2026! Good luck!