Janez Janša, Slovenia’s new Prime Minister from the powerful EPP, and his expected return to Brussels are being met with mixed emotions—enthusiasm from some and a certain degree of reservation from others. So, who exactly is anxious, and who is excited?
First, let us immediately disappoint those trying to distort reality. No, the underlying caution or reservation is not driven by the apocalyptic predictions of the election losers, the Slovenian far-left and their political proxies, who claim that the end of the world is in sight for Slovenia. Phrases such as “Orbánization” and “dictatorship,” long used to stigmatize Slovenia’s center-right, have largely lost their impact.
Anyone who seriously follows politics knows the true state of affairs in Slovenia. Look no further than the European Parliament’s special mission to the country; even they could not help but be astonished by how the left had subordinated key rule-of-law institutions and the national broadcaster, RTV Slovenia. Furthermore, the sheer embarrassment displayed by the now-former center-left ruling coalition during the adoption of the Resolution on the Victims of Communism resonated strongly within the European Parliament.
Of course, those defending their political allies will never admit this. However, European policymakers are well aware that former Prime Minister Robert Golob (Renew) posed a far greater threat to democracy and the rule of law in Slovenia than Janša ever could.
The contrast between the two is clear. Slovenians know which side persecuted political opponents and which was itself politically persecuted and imprisoned. We also remember that the “greatest alleged threat” to the rule of law under Janša’s previous government was merely the delayed appointment of European Delegated Prosecutors. On the other hand, Robert Golob publicly announced political purges and then systematically worked to carry them out.
The mixed feelings toward the new Slovenian Prime Minister stem primarily from the realization that Janez Janša will be an active co-creator of European policy. He is someone who will always speak his mind and hold up a mirror to many. At the same time, he will be a tough, demanding negotiator whenever Slovenian interests are on the table, as he has proven time and again.
In contrast, those who view Janez Janša as an ally are genuinely pleased. They see a leader who will support a stronger, more integrated, more competitive, and more secure Europe—one that shapes its own future and refuses to bow to anyone. Crucially, the EPP, which has consistently stood by its member party SDS and its leader Janez Janša, is thrilled to welcome another prime minister into its ranks.
Congratulations on the formation of the new government are already pouring in. Most expect that Slovenia will help fortify the EPP as a resilient center-right political force. Above all, we can be proud that Slovenia will once again have a Prime Minister in Europe whose voice is truly listened to.
