Slovenia heads to the polls on Sunday in a closely contested race between incumbent Prime Minister Robert Golob and right-wing former Prime Minister Janez Jansa. Opinion polls suggest no clear winner, with the outcome likely dependent on coalition-building among smaller parties.
Diverging Views on Israel-Palestine
The election will also determine the Alpine nation’s foreign policy direction, particularly regarding Israel, and Palestine. Slovenia, which gained independence in 1991, has seen the conflict play a significant role in its politics.
The current government has openly criticised Israel’s actions and banned imports of goods from the occupied Palestinian territory. In May 2024, Slovenia recognised Palestinian statehood, displaying a Palestinian flag alongside Slovenian and European Union flags in Ljubljana. In May 2025, Slovenia’s President Natasa Pirc Musar called for stronger EU action against Israel, condemning “the genocide” in Gaza. Later that year, Slovenia banned weapons trade with Israel and backed a Slovenian judge at the International Criminal Court after she faced sanctions for issuing arrest warrants related to the conflict.
Conversely, Jansa has been a close ally of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and criticised Slovenia’s recognition of Palestinian statehood, claiming it amounted to supporting Hamas.
Accusations of ‘Foreign Information Manipulation’
In the lead-up to the election, covertly recorded conversations involving a Slovenian lobbyist, a lawyer, a former minister, and a manager were published online. These recordings reportedly detail attempts to influence Golob’s coalition. Golob has accused “foreign services” of interfering in the election, following a report alleging visits by representatives of the Israeli private spy firm Black Cube to Slovenia in December and to Jansa’s headquarters.
Slovenia’s Intelligence and Security Agency confirmed the arrival of Black Cube representatives and presented a report on foreign interference. Golob subsequently sent a letter to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen regarding the alleged interference, and French President Emmanuel Macron stated that Golob was a victim of interference by “third countries.” Jansa admitted to meeting with a Black Cube representative but denied any wrongdoing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many times has Janez Jansa served as Prime Minister?
Jansa has served three times as prime minister, between 2004-2008, 2012-2013 and 2020-2022.
What is the primary difference in domestic policy between Golob and Jansa?
Golob’s agenda is reform-driven and welfare-focused, while Jansa has promised to reverse these policies by introducing tax breaks for businesses and cutting welfare funding.
What action did Slovenia take regarding far-right Israeli cabinet ministers?
In 2025, Slovenia banned far-right Israeli cabinet ministers Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich from entering the country.
As Slovenia prepares to vote, will concerns over foreign interference and sharply contrasting views on international conflicts influence the outcome of this closely watched election?
