Afleveringen
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V novi epizodi vladnega GOVSI podkasta je gostoval hidrolog Janez Polajnar z Agencije Republike Slovenije za okolje, dolgoletni strokovnjak za spremljanje in napovedovanje hidroloških razmer. Pogovor je bil namenjen pomenu pravočasnih opozoril, izkušnjam ob poplavah avgusta 2023 in prilagajanju na vse pogostejše vremenske ekstreme.
Polajnar se že več kot tri desetletja ukvarja s spremljanjem voda, analizami hidroloških razmer in opozarjanjem pred nevarnimi pojavi. Letos je prejel tudi najvišje priznanje javnim uslužbencem za izjemne delovne uspehe, in sicer za prispevek k razvoju napovedovanja hidroloških razmer v Sloveniji ter za strokovno in povezovalno delovanje v poplavnih dogodkih.
Kot je poudaril, ima hidrološka služba pomembno vlogo pri varnosti ljudi in premoženja. Njeno delo vključuje meritve na terenu, analize, pripravo hidroloških modelov in vsakodnevno napovedovanje razmer. Informacije, ki jih zagotavlja, so pomembne tudi za gospodarstvo, kmetijstvo, energetiko, turizem in upravljanje z vodami.
V pogovoru se je Polajnar ozrl tudi na najhujše poplave v zgodovini Slovenije avgusta 2023. Pojasnil je, da so bile razmere posebne že pred samim dogodkom, saj so bile rečne struge zaradi obilnih padavin že močno napolnjene. Nato je v noči s 3. na 4. avgust ponekod padlo več kot 200 litrov dežja na kvadratni meter v manj kot šestih urah.
Poseben izziv pri opozarjanju ostajajo hudourniške poplave, ki lahko nastanejo zelo hitro, tudi v manj kot eni uri. Zato so ključni pravočasna opozorila, dobro sodelovanje med institucijami in samozaščitno ravnanje prebivalcev.
Polajnar je poudaril, da se naravnih pojavov ne da preprečiti, lahko pa se nanje bolje pripravimo. Pri tem so pomembni sistem zgodnjega opozarjanja, povezovanje z zaščito in reševanjem, urejanje prostora ter zavedanje, da moramo vodi nameniti dovolj prostora.
V času podnebnih sprememb postajajo zanesljive informacije še pomembnejše. Agencija Republike Slovenije za okolje zato opozorila in napovedi objavlja prek uradnih kanalov in družbenih omrežij, javnosti pa priporoča spremljanje preverjenih virov. Med koristnimi orodji je tudi Atlas okolja, kjer so dostopne karte poplavne nevarnosti in ogroženosti.
»Naš največji cilj je, da ob silovitih in nepredvidljivih poplavah nimamo človeških žrtev,« je v pogovoru poudaril Polajnar. Dodal je, da je vlaganje v preventivo, kadre in tehnološki razvoj naložba v varnost ljudi in družbe.
Prisluhnite pogovoru. Vladni GOVSI podkast lahko spremljate tudi na vseh aplikacijah za podkaste in na vladnem kanalu YouTube.
[ENGLISH VERSION]
From Olympic Rapids to Safer Coexistence with Water
The latest episode of the government GOVSI podcast features hydrologist Janez Polajnar from the Slovenian Environment Agency, a long-standing expert in monitoring and forecasting hydrological conditions. The conversation focused on the importance of timely warnings, the experience of the August 2023 floods, and adapting to increasingly frequent extreme weather events.
Polajnar has been involved in water monitoring, the analysis of hydrological conditions and warnings of dangerous phenomena for more than three decades. This year, he also received the highest award for civil servants for outstanding work achievements, namely for his contribution to the development of hydrological forecasting in Slovenia and for his expert and collaborative work during flood events.
As he pointed out, the hydrological service plays an important role in protecting people and property. Its work includes field measurements, analyses, the preparation of hydrological models, and daily forecasting of conditions. The information it provides is also important for the economy, agriculture, energy, tourism and water management.
In the conversation, Polajnar also reflected on the worst floods in Slovenia’s history, which occurred in August 2023. He explained that the conditions had already been unusual before the event itself, as river channels were already very full due to heavy rainfall. Then, on the night of 3 to 4 August, more than 200 litres of rain per square metre fell in some places in less than six hours.
Flash floods, which can develop very quickly, even in less than an hour, remain a particular challenge when it comes to warnings. Timely alerts, good cooperation between institutions and self-protective action by residents are therefore crucial.
Polajnar stressed that natural phenomena cannot be prevented, but we can prepare for them better. Important elements in this are the early warning system, cooperation with civil protection and disaster relief services, spatial planning, and the awareness that water must be given enough space.
In the era of climate change, reliable information is becoming even more important. The Slovenian Environment Agency therefore publishes warnings and forecasts through official channels and social media, and recommends that the public follow verified sources. One useful tool is the Environmental Atlas, which provides maps of flood hazard and flood risk.
“Our greatest goal is to ensure that violent and unpredictable floods do not claim human lives,” Polajnar emphasised in the conversation. He added that investment in prevention, staff and technological development is an investment in the safety of people and society.
The government podcast GOVSI is available on all podcast platforms and on the Government YouTube channel.
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Ob mednarodnem prazniku dela je 40. epizoda GOVSI podkasta posvečena razmisleku o pomenu delavskih pravic nekoč in danes. Gostja, dolgoletna sindikalistka Lidija Jerkič, je opozorila, da pravice delavcev niso samoumevne, temveč rezultat dolgoletnega boja in prizadevanj.
Praznik dela, ki ga obeležujemo 1. maja, ima korenine v delavskih protestih za osemurni delovnik v Chicagu leta 1886. Danes, več kot stoletje kasneje, ostaja simbol prizadevanj za dostojne delovne pogoje. Kot je poudarila Jerkičeva, se razmere sicer spreminjajo, a temeljno sporočilo ostaja enako: »Nič ni podarjeno, vse je priborjeno – in zelo hitro tudi izgubljeno.«
Sindikati imajo po njenem mnenju še vedno ključno vlogo pri zastopanju interesov zaposlenih in sodelovanju v socialnem dialogu. V Sloveniji ta poteka tudi v okviru Ekonomsko-socialnega sveta, kjer sodelujejo predstavniki vlade, delodajalcev in delojemalcev. Kakovosten socialni dialog je po besedah sogovornice eden od temeljev stabilne in pravične družbe, ob tem je poudarila, da se v mandatu aktualne vlade socialni dialog zelo okrepil.
Gostja je opozorila tudi na pomen ustrezne zakonodaje, kot je minimalna plača, ki po njenem mnenju postane nujna, kadar socialni dialog ne deluje dovolj učinkovito. Ob tem je izpostavila, da ima Slovenija razmeroma dobro pravno ureditev, vendar se težave pojavljajo pri njenem izvajanju.
Ob zaključku je gostja poudarila pomen solidarnosti: »Posameznik sam težko stoji, skupaj pa je lažje. Pomembno je, da se ljudje zavedajo svojih pravic in jih tudi uveljavljajo.«
Epizoda spodbuja razmislek o tem, kakšno družbo želimo graditi in kakšno mesto ima v njej delo – danes in v prihodnje.
Vabljeni k ogledu in poslušanju.
[ENGLISH VERSION]
Government Podcast GOVSI: On May Day about the importance of workers’ rights, social dialogue and the challenges of the modern labour market
On the occasion of International Workers’ Day, the 40th episode of the government GOVSI podcast is dedicated to reflecting on the importance of workers’ rights in the past and today. The guest - long-time trade unionist Lidija Jerkič - stressed that workers’ rights are not self-evident, but the result of long-term struggle and effort.
Labour Day, celebrated on 1 May, has its roots in workers’ protests for the eight-hour workday in Chicago in 1886. Today, more than a century later, it remains a symbol of the fight for decent working conditions. As Jerkič pointed out, while circumstances change, the core message remains the same: “Nothing is given, everything is fought for – and it can be lost very quickly.”
In her view, trade unions still play a key role in representing employees’ interests and participating in social dialogue. In Slovenia, this also takes place within the framework of the Economic and Social Council, which brings together representatives of the government, employers and employees. According to the guest, high-quality social dialogue is one of the foundations of a stable and fair society, and she emphasised that it has significantly strengthened during the current government’s term.
The guest also highlighted the importance of appropriate legislation, such as the minimum wage, which becomes necessary when social dialogue does not function effectively. She noted that Slovenia has relatively well-developed labour legislation, but that problems often arise in its implementation.
In conclusion, the guest emphasised the importance of solidarity: “An individual can hardly stand alone, but together it is easier. It is important that people are aware of their rights and also exercise them.”
The episode encourages reflection on the kind of society we want to build and the place of work within it – today and in the future.
You are invited to watch and listen.<
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Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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Ob 23. aprilu, svetovnem dnevu knjige, je bila v ospredju pogovora z državno sekretarko Vesno Humar razprava o pomenu branja v sodobni družbi. Ta dan, ki ga je Unesco simbolično povezal z obletnicama smrti Williama Shakespeara in Miguela de Cervantesa, opozarja na izjemno vlogo knjige pri razvoju posameznika in družbe.
V najnovejši epizodi GOVSI podkasta je gostja poudarila, da knjige niso le vir znanja, temveč prostor domišljije, razmisleka in osebne rasti. Branje po njenem mnenju ni pasivna dejavnost, temveč aktivno ustvarjanje notranjih svetov, ki krepi sposobnost razumevanja kompleksnih družbenih vprašanj.
Poseben poudarek je bil namenjen vlogi branja pri razvoju kritičnega mišljenja, zlasti med mladimi. V času hitrih in pogosto površinskih informacij branje daljših in zahtevnejših besedil omogoča poglobljeno razumevanje ter odpornost proti dezinformacijam.
Leto 2026 je posvečeno pesniku Srečku Kosovelu in pisateljici Zofki Kveder, kar dodatno poudarja pomen literature za slovensko kulturno identiteto. Takšna obeleževanja krepijo zavedanje o bogati literarni dediščini ter spodbujajo razmislek o sodobnih družbenih vprašanjih, vključno z vlogo žensk v literaturi.
Knjiga ostaja tudi ključna vez med Slovenci v zamejstvu in po svetu. Dostop do sodobnih slovenskih vsebin, zlasti v digitalni obliki, je pomemben za ohranjanje jezika, kulture in občutka pripadnosti.
Ob svetovnem dnevu knjige tako ostaja jasno sporočilo: branje ni le osebna izbira, temveč naložba v znanje, kulturo in prihodnost družbe.
Vabljeni k poslušanju na vseh priljubljenih platformah za podkaste ter na YouTube kanalu Vlade Republike Slovenije.
[ENGLISH VERSION]
World Book Day: Reading as a Foundation of Critical Thinking and Cultural IdentityOn 23 April, World Book Day, the discussion with State Secretary Vesna Humar focused on the importance of reading in contemporary society. The day, symbolically linked by UNESCO to the anniversaries of the deaths of William Shakespeare and Miguel de Cervantes, highlights the exceptional role of books in the development of both individuals and society.
In the latest episode of the GOVSI podcast, State Secretary Vesna Humar emphasised that books are not only a source of knowledge, but also a space for imagination, reflection, and personal growth. In her view, reading is not a passive activity, but an active process of creating inner worlds that strengthens our ability to understand complex social issues.
Particular emphasis was placed on the role of reading in developing critical thinking, especially among young people. In a time of fast and often superficial information, reading longer and more demanding texts enables deeper understanding and greater resilience to disinformation.
The year 2026 is dedicated to poet Srečko Kosovel and writer Zofka Kveder, further underlining the importance of literature for Slovenia’s cultural identity. Such commemorations strengthen awareness of the country’s rich literary heritage and encourage reflection on contemporary social issues, including the role of women in literature.
Books also remain a key link for Slovenians living abroad. Access to modern Slovenian content, especially in digital form, is essential for preserving language, culture, and a sense of belonging.
On World Book Day, the message is clear: reading is not just a personal choice, but an investment in knowledge, culture, and the future of society.
You are invited to listen to the conversation on all major podcast platforms and on the YouTube channel of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia.
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V novi epizodi GOVSI podkasta je naš gost ameriški strokovnjak za medijsko zakonodajo Michael M. Epstein, ki opozarja na vpliv dezinformacij na demokracijo, zlasti pred volitvami.
Profesor Epstein poudarja, da so zanesljive informacije temelj demokracije, in izpostavlja razliko med dezinformacijami (z namenom zavajanja) in napačnimi informacijami. V času družbenih omrežij in umetne inteligence je po njegovih besedah vse težje preveriti verodostojnost informacij.
Kot rešitev predlaga koncept informacijske suverenosti – pomembno ni le, kaj je vsebina informacije, ampak predvsem od kod prihaja, kdo je vir informacije. Državljanom svetuje, naj postanejo kritični, odgovorni uporabniki informacij in naj vedno preverijo vir, še posebej pred volitvami.
Epizoda ponuja ključne vpoglede v enega največjih izzivov sodobne družbe – kako zaščititi demokracijo v času motenj informacijskega kaosa.
Vabljeni k poslušanju pogovora na vseh priljubljenih platformah za podkaste ter na YouTube kanalu Vlade Republike Slovenije.
[ENGLISH VERSION]
GOVSI Podcast: No Democracy Without Reliable InformationIn the latest episode of the GOVSI podcast, the guest is Michael M. Epstein, a U.S. expert in media law, who highlights the impact of disinformation on democracy, especially in the run-up to elections.
He emphasizes that reliable information is the foundation of democracy and points out the difference between disinformation (intentional deception) and misinformation. In the age of social media and artificial intelligence, he notes, it is becoming increasingly difficult to verify the credibility of information.
As a solution, he proposes the concept of information sovereignty – what matters is not only the content of information, but also its origin. He advises citizens to become critical and responsible consumers of information and to always verify sources, particularly before elections.
The episode offers key insights into one of the biggest challenges of modern society – how to protect democracy in an era of information chaos.
You are invited to listen to the conversation on all major podcast platforms and on the YouTube channel of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia.
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V tokratni epizodi GOVSI podkasta je naš gost Tomaž Petek, generalni direktor Geodetske uprave Republike Slovenije (GURS). Z voditeljico Petro Prešeren Golob razkrivata, kako GURS upravlja ključne prostorske evidence – od katastra nepremičnin do podatkov o stavbah. Petek pojasni, zakaj so natančni geodetski podatki temelj urejenega prostora in zaupanja v pravni sistem.
Geodetska uprava vodi ključne državne evidence, med njimi kataster nepremičnin, evidence stavb, hišnih številk, državne meje in številne prostorske podatkovne zbirke. Za upravljanje več milijonov podatkovnih zapisov skrbi več kot 450 zaposlenih, ki zagotavljajo zanesljive informacije o prostoru in nepremičninah. GURS skrbi tudi za razvoj sodobnih prostorskih podatkov.
Slovenija je med državami, ki so zgodaj začele sistematično digitalizirati prostorske evidence in odpirati podatke javnosti. »Upal bi si trditi, da smo tukaj kar med pionirji, kar se tiče prehoda iz papirja v digitalni svet«. S tem Slovenija na področju geodetskih podatkov in digitalizacije pogosto sledi najsodobnejšim praksam – in jih tudi soustvarja. Na vprašanje, ali na tem področju držimo korak z najboljšimi v svetu, Petek odgovarja: »Če sem malo neskromen, bi temu kar pritrdil.«
Geodetska uprava je vključena tudi v številne mednarodne organizacije in sodelovanja, slovenski strokovnjaki pa aktivno sodelujejo pri razvoju evropskih standardov na področju geodetskih in prostorskih podatkov.
Urejene evidence pa niso pomembne le za državo, temveč predvsem za lastnike nepremičnin. Petek ob tem opozarja, da lastnina ni samoumevna, temveč zahteva aktivno skrb. »Ključno sporočilo bi bilo, da je za lastnino treba nekaj narediti. Ni samo po sebi umevno, da bo naša lastnina ustrezno zavarovana.«
Vabljeni k poslušanju pogovora na vseh priljubljenih platformah za podkaste ter na YouTube kanalu Vlade Republike Slovenije.
[ENGLISH VERSION]
Surveying and Mapping Authority of the Republic of Slovenia: Data That Defines Space and OwnershipThe Surveying and Mapping Authority of the Republic of Slovenia manages several core national registers, including the real estate cadastre, building registers, house number records, state border records, and numerous spatial data databases. More than 450 employees are responsible for managing millions of data records, ensuring reliable information about space and real estate.
GURS is also responsible for the development of modern spatial data systems. Slovenia is among the countries that began systematically digitizing spatial records and opening data to the public at an early stage. “I would even dare to say that we are among the pioneers when it comes to the transition from paper to the digital world.”
As a result, Slovenia often follows the most advanced practices in geodetic data management and digitalisation—and helps shape them as well. When asked whether Slovenia keeps pace with the world’s best in this field, Petek responds: “If I may be a little immodest, I would say yes.” The Surveying and Mapping Authority is also involved in numerous international organisations and collaborations, with Slovenian experts actively contributing to the development of European standards in geodetic and spatial data.
Well-maintained registers are not only important for the state but above all for property owners. Petek emphasizes that ownership is not self-evident and requires active responsibility: “The key message would be that ownership requires action. It is not self-evident that our property will be properly protected.”
You are invited to listen to the conversation on all major podcast platforms and on the YouTube channel of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia.
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Državna volilna komisija (DVK) se intenzivno pripravlja na parlamentarne volitve, ki bodo 22. marca 2026. Za nemoteno izvedbo volitev je predvideno sodelovanje približno 20.000 ljudi na skoraj 3000 voliščih po vsej Sloveniji, kar predstavlja največjo civilno akcijo v državi. V vladnem GOVSI podkastu je predsednik DVK Igor Zorčič poudaril, da je zaupanje v volilne postopke temelj legitimnosti izvoljene oblasti. »Zaupanje v volilne postopke generira zaupanje v volilni izid, zaupanje v izid pa legitimnost oblasti. Delo volilnih organov je zato izjemno pomembno.« Vse državljane je povabil, naj se volitev udeležijo v čim večjem številu, saj s tem prispevajo k legitimnosti in stabilnosti naše demokracije.
Priprave so se začele z analizo izvedbe preteklih volitev in referendumov. Poseben poudarek je bil namenjen izboljšavam postopkov, ki jih je mogoče uvesti brez spremembe zakonodaje. DVK kot izvajalski organ skrbi za natančno in transparentno uporabo veljavnih pravil ter za dodatna navodila, kjer je to potrebno.
Z voditeljico Petro Bezjak Cirman sta se pogovarjala tudi o morebitnih napakah. Pojasnil je, da do napak sicer lahko pride zaradi obsega dela in velikega števila vpletenih v volilni proces. Ključno za zaupanje je, da volilna pravila vsebujejo tudi varovalke in pravna sredstva za primer nepravilnosti. Teh je več (na primer pritožbe zoper delo volilnih organov), čeprav si na DVK želijo, da jih ne bi bilo treba uporabljati. Dodatno varovalo pa predstavlja pluralna sestava volilnih organov, ki omogoča medsebojni nadzor različnih deležnikov.
Vabljeni k ogledu pogovora na YouTube kanalu Vlade Republike Slovenije.
[ENGLISH VERSION]
Elections – The Largest Civic Operation in the CountryThe National Election Commission (NEC) is intensively preparing for the parliamentary elections to be held on 22 March 2026. To ensure the smooth conduct of the elections, approximately 20,000 people will be engaged at nearly 3000 polling stations across Slovenia, making this the largest civic operation in the country. In the government GOVSI podcast, President Igor Zorčič emphasized that trust in electoral procedures is the foundation of the legitimacy of elected authority. »Trust in electoral procedures generates trust in the election result, and trust in the result generates the legitimacy of authority. The work of electoral bodies is therefore extremely important.« He invited all citizens to participate in the elections in as great numbers as possible, as this contributes to the legitimacy and stability of Slovenia’s democracy.
Preparations began with an analysis of the implementation of previous elections and referendums. Special emphasis was placed on procedural improvements that can be introduced without legislative amendments. As the implementing authority, the NEC ensures the precise and transparent application of existing rules and provides additional instructions where necessary.
In conversation with host Petra Bezjak Cirman, Zorčič also addressed the possibility of errors. He explained that errors can occur due to the scope of the work and the large number of people involved in the electoral process. What is crucial for maintaining trust is that electoral rules include safeguards and legal remedies in cases of irregularities. There are several such mechanisms (for instance appeals against the work of electoral bodies), although NEC hopes they will not need to be used. An additional safeguard is the plural composition of electoral bodies, which enables mutual oversight among different stakeholders.
You are invited to watch the conversation on the YouTube channel of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia.
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Pred zimskimi olimpijskimi igrami Milano–Cortina 2026 smo v vladnem GOVSI podkastu gostili Blaža Perka, vodjo slovenske olimpijske reprezentance, in Matica Švaba, poslovnega direktorja Olimpijskega komiteja Slovenije (OKS).
Navijači kot nevidna energija športnikov
Na zimskih olimpijskih igrah bo Slovenijo predvidoma zastopalo okoli 38 športnic in športnikov v šestih panogah. Po besedah Blaža Perka so pričakovanja visoka, zlasti v smučarskih skokih, kjer slovenska ekipa v letošnji sezoni dosega vrhunske rezultate. Ena od prednosti letošnjih iger je njihova bližina Sloveniji. To omogoča številnim navijačem, da športnike podprejo v živo. »Navijači dajejo tisto nevidno dodatno energijo, ki pa jo športniki še kako čutijo,« je poudaril Perko in dodal, da je prav domača podpora lahko odločilen dejavnik v boju za odličja.
Slovenska hiša – prostor povezovanja in promocije
Milano–Cortina bodo prve zimske olimpijske igre z izrazito razpršenimi prizorišči, kar je velik logistični izziv. Kljub temu slovenska reprezentanca verjame, da bo organizacija omogočila optimalne pogoje za nastope športnikov na vseh prizoriščih. Pomemben del slovenskega olimpijskega nastopa bo tudi Slovenska hiša v Cortini d’Ampezzo. Matic Švab je poudaril, da bo hiša odprta za javnost in bo delovala kot stičišče športa, gospodarstva, turizma, kulture in diplomacije. Pod znamko I feel Slovenia bo predstavljala Slovenijo v malem ter ponujala prostor za dogodke, srečanja in navijanje.
Športniki kot najboljši ambasadorji Slovenije
Slovenska hiša bo gostila številne delegacije, poslovne dogodke in obiske uglednih gostov, pomembno vlogo pa bo imela tudi ambasadorka hiše Tina Maze. Olimpijske igre so tako priložnost ne le za športne uspehe, temveč tudi za krepitev prepoznavnosti Slovenije v svetu.
Epizodo si lahko ogledate na vladnem YouTube kanalu.[ENGLISH VERSION]
Olympic Games Milan–Cortina: Sport, Fans and the Slovenian House as Slovenia in Miniature
Ahead of the Milan–Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games, the Government GOVSI Podcast hosted Blaž Perko, Head of the Slovenian Olympic Team, and Matic Švab, Managing Director of the Slovenian Olympic Committee.
Fans as the Invisible Energy of Athletes
At the Winter Olympic Games, Slovenia is expected to be represented by around 38 female and male athletes across six sports disciplines. According to team leader Blaž Perko, expectations are high, particularly in ski jumping, where the Slovenian team has been achieving top results this season. Competitions will begin in the very first days after the opening ceremony, meaning Slovenian athletes will quickly be in contention for the highest places. One of the advantages of this year’s Games is their proximity to Slovenia, allowing many fans to support the athletes in person. »Fans provide that invisible extra energy which athletes can truly feel,« Perko emphasised, adding that home support can be a decisive factor in the fight for medals.
The Slovenian House – A Hub for Connection and Promotion
An important part of Slovenia’s Olympic presence will also be the Slovenian House in Cortina d’Ampezzo. Matic Švab highlighted that the House will be open to the public and will serve as a meeting point for sport, business, tourism, culture and diplomacy. Under the I feel Slovenia brand, it will present Slovenia in miniature and provide a space for events, meetings and cheering.
Athletes as Slovenia’s Best Ambassadors
The Slovenian House will host numerous delegations, business events and visits by distinguished guests, with a special role played by the House’s ambassador, Tina Maze. The Olympic Games thus represent an opportunity for sporting success, and also a chance to further strengthen Slovenia’s international visibility.
You can watch the episode on YouTube. -
V novi epizodi GOVSI podkasta smo se posvetili enemu najzahtevnejših in hkrati najpomembnejših obdobij slovenske zunanje politike – dvoletnemu mandatu Slovenije kot nestalne članice Varnostnega sveta Organizacije združenih narodov.
V studiu se je voditeljici Poloni Prešeren pridružil stalni predstavnik Republike Slovenije pri OZN, veleposlanik Samuel Žbogar, ki je v poglobljenem pogovoru osvetlil, kaj je v praksi pomenilo sodelovanje v organu, kjer so se sprejemale odločitve o najtežjih vprašanjih miru in varnosti v svetu.
Mandat Slovenije je potekal v času izjemno zaostrenih globalnih razmer, ki so jih zaznamovali konflikti v Ukrajini, Gazi in Sudanu ter številne druge, pogosto spregledane krize. Veleposlanik Žbogar je pojasnil, kako je Slovenija kot majhna država, a z jasno izoblikovanimi stališči in vrednotami, aktivno sodelovala pri razpravah, oblikovanju pobud in iskanju rešitev, tudi v okoliščinah, ko Varnostni svet zaradi globokih političnih razhajanj ni bil zmožen sprejemati odločitev. Poseben poudarek je namenil načelnosti slovenskih nastopov, doslednemu zagovarjanju mednarodnega prava, zaščite civilnega prebivalstva in odgovornosti do mednarodne skupnosti, tudi takrat, ko ta stališča niso bila najlažja ali politično najbolj udobna.
Pogovor je razkril tudi zakulisje diplomatskega dela v New Yorku, pomen usklajenega delovanja med Ljubljano in stalno misijo pri OZN ter povezovalno vlogo Slovenije kot med zahodnimi državami in t. i. svetovnim jugom. Prav ta sposobnost poslušanja in razumevanja različnih pogledov je Sloveniji prinesla ugled odgovorne in zaupanja vredne članice Varnostnega sveta, kar so ob zaključku mandata potrdile tudi številne pohvale.
Epizoda je na voljo na vseh priljubljenih platformah za podkaste ter na YouTube kanalu Vlade Republike Slovenije.
[ENGLISH VERSION]
Ambassador Žbogar: Principled Action Defined Slovenia’s Membership in the UN Security Council
In the new episode of the GOVSI podcast, we focused on one of the most demanding and at the same time most significant periods of Slovenian foreign policy – Slovenia’s two-year term as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council. Host Polona Prešeren was joined in the studio by Slovenia’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Samuel Žbogar, who in an in-depth discussion shed light on what participation in a body where decisions on the most critical issues of global peace and security are made meant in practice.
Slovenia’s mandate took place during a period of exceptionally strained global circumstances, marked by conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza and Sudan, as well as numerous other often overlooked crises. Ambassador Žbogar explained how Slovenia, as a small country but one with clearly defined positions and values, actively participated in debates, initiatives and the search for solutions, even in situations where deep political divisions prevented the Security Council from reaching decisions. He placed particular emphasis on the principled nature of Slovenia’s positions, its consistent advocacy of international law, the protection of civilians and responsibility towards the international community, including at times when such positions were neither the easiest nor the most politically comfortable.
The conversation also revealed the behind-the-scenes aspects of diplomatic work in New York, the importance of close coordination between Ljubljana and Slovenia’s Permanent Mission to the UN, and a bridge-builder Slovenia’s role between Western countries and the so-called Global South. This ability to listen to and understand different perspectives earned Slovenia a reputation as a responsible and trustworthy member of the Security Council, as confirmed by numerous commendations at the conclusion of its mandate.
The episode is available on all major podcast platforms and on the YouTube channel of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia.
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V najnovejši epizodi podkasta GOVSI nadaljujemo s temo dezinformacij in informacijske vojne. Tokratni gost je Mykhailo Dankanych, ukrajinski veteran in strokovnjak za boj proti ruskim dezinformacijam, ki opozarja, da se informacijska fronta ne odvija le v Ukrajini, temveč tudi znotraj Evropske unije. V pogovoru z voditeljem Zoranom Potičem gost pojasni, da informacijska vojna ni ločen pojav, temveč del širše kognitivne vojne, katere cilj je širjenje kaosa, nezaupanja in razkrajanje družbene kohezije.
Priče kot najmočnejši odgovor na lažne narative
Dankanych izpostavi, da je eden najbolj učinkovitih načinov boja proti dezinformacijam pogovor z ljudmi, ki so dogodke doživeli na lastni koži. Svoje delo povezuje s projektom To Break the Fake, v okviru katerega zbira pričevanja nekdanjih ukrajinskih vojnih ujetnikov. Po njegovih besedah so prav njihove izkušnje ključne za razumevanje, kako se ruski narativi gradijo in utrjujejo skozi leta.Ruski narativi v Evropi in tudi v Sloveniji
Gost poudari, da Rusija informacijsko deluje tudi v evropskem medijskem prostoru. Njegova ekipa spremlja medije v različnih državah EU in išče značilne propagandne fraze, ki se ponavljajo v proruskih narativih. Med najnovejše analizirane države uvrščajo tudi Slovenijo, kjer so zaznali več virov, ki širijo ruske dezinformacijske vzorce.»Dezinformacij ni mogoče premagati — se pa moramo upirati«
Pomembno sporočilo epizode je, da dezinformacij ni mogoče v celoti odpraviti, saj se bodo z razvojem tehnologije in umetne inteligence širile še hitreje. Kljub temu je, kot poudarja Dankanych, ključno vztrajati: izobraževati, preverjati vire in krepiti kritično mišljenje že pri otrocih. Epizodo zaključi s pozivom: »Bodite skeptični.«Pogovor si lahko ogledate na YouTube kanalu Vlade Republike Slovenije.
[ENGLISH VERSION]
On Disinformation in Russia's War against Ukraine
In the latest episode of the GOVSI podcast 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.In conversation with host Zoran Potič, the guest explains that information warfare is not an isolated phenomenon, but part of a broader cognitive war, aimed at spreading chaos, distrust and undermining social cohesion.
Witnesses as the strongest response to false narratives
Dankanych highlights that one of the most effective ways to fight disinformation is to speak with people who have experienced events first-hand. He connects his work to the project To Break the Fake, through which he collects testimonies from former Ukrainian prisoners of war. According to him, their experiences are essential for understanding how Russian narratives are constructed and reinforced over time.Russian narratives in Europe—and in Slovenia as well
The guest emphasises that Russia also operates in the European media space. His team monitors media outlets across various EU countries, searching for recurring propaganda phrases that appear in pro-Russian narratives. Among the most recently analysed countries is Slovenia, where they have identified several sources spreading patterns typical of Russian disinformation.»Disinformation cannot be defeated — but we must resist«
A key message of the episode is that disinformation cannot be completely eliminated, as it will spread even faster with the development of technology and artificial intelligence. Nevertheless, as Dankanych stresses, it is essential to persist: to educate, verify sources and strengthen critical thinking from an early age. He concludes the episode with a simple call: »Be sceptical.«You can watch the episode on YouTube.
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V 32. epizodi GOVSI podkasta je voditeljica Polona Prešeren gostila Simona Anholta, britanskega svetovalca, raziskovalca in avtorja ter utemeljitelja termina nation brand (angleško znamka države). Pogovor v angleškem jeziku je bil posvečen ugledu držav, javnim zaznavam ter strateškemu razmišljanju o tem, kako se države uveljavljajo v mednarodnem okolju.
Anholt je poudaril, da je nacionalna podoba veliko več kot promocija turizma ali odnosi z javnostmi. Gre za področje, ki vključuje ekonomijo, mednarodno pravo, mir in varnost, zgodovino, geografijo in kulturo. Ljudje realnost doživljamo skozi zaznave, zato imajo te enako težo kot dejstva. Raziskave kažejo močno povezanost med podobo države in njenim uspehom pri turizmu, investicijah, izvozu ter diplomaciji.
Analiza skoraj milijarde podatkov v raziskavi Anholt Nation Brands Index kaže, da države z najboljšimi podobami niso nujno najbogatejše ali najmočnejše, temveč tiste, za katere javnost verjame, da pozitivno prispevajo svetu zunaj svojih meja. V tem kontekstu je posebej izpostavil Slovenijo, ki je v zadnji izdaji Good Country Indexa zasedla 8. , Estonija pa 9. mesto, kar je po njegovi oceni izjemen dosežek za tako majhni državi.
V razpravi o znamki I feel Slovenia je Anholt poudaril pomen doslednosti: znamke se ne menja pogosto, ker se javnost nanjo naveže skozi dolgoročno ponavljanje. Logotipi in slogani niso odločilni sami po sebi, temveč so učinkoviti, ko odražajo skupne cilje in avtentično ravnanje države.
Vabljeni k ogledu in poslušanju epizode podkasta!
[ENGLISH VERSION]
Simon Anholt in the GOVSI podcast: A country’s reputation is built by actions, not advertisingIn the 32nd episode of the GOVSI podcast, hosted by Polona Prešeren, we welcomed Simon Anholt – a British advisor, researcher and author, and the originator of the term nation brand. The conversation, held in English, focused on the reputation of countries, public perceptions, and strategic thinking about how nations establish themselves in the international environment.
Anholt stressed that a country’s image is far more than tourism promotion or public relations. It is a field that encompasses economics, international law, peace and security, history, geography and culture. People experience reality through perceptions, which is why perceptions carry the same weight as facts. Research shows a strong link between a country’s image and its performance in tourism, investment, exports and diplomacy.
An analysis of nearly a billion data points in the Anholt Nation Brands Index shows that countries with the best reputations are not necessarily the richest or most powerful, but those that the public believes contribute positively to the world beyond their borders. In this context, he highlighted Slovenia in particular. In the latest edition of the Good Country Index, Slovenia ranked 8th and Estonia 9th – an outstanding achievement for two such small countries, in his view.
Discussing the I feel Slovenia brand, Anholt underlined the importance of consistency: a brand should not be changed frequently, because the public connects with it through long-term repetition. Logos and slogans are not decisive on their own, but they become effective when they reflect shared goals and authentic national behaviour.
The GOVSI podcast is available on all major podcast platforms and on the YouTube channel of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia.
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V novi epizodi vladnega GOVSI podkasta je finančni minister Klemen Boštjančič spregovoril o sprejetih proračunih za leti 2026 in 2027, ključnih prioritetah vlade ter izvedenih reformah, ki po njegovih besedah krepijo finančno stabilnost in razvoj države.
Minister je izpostavil, da med osrednje prioritete vlade sodijo vlaganja v zdravstvo, izobraževanje, raziskave in stanovanjsko politiko, saj gre za področja, ki so bila v preteklosti povsem zapostavljena. Poudaril je, da vlada vodi vzdržno fiskalno politiko, ki omogoča investicije v dolgoročni razvoj – od gradnje novih fakultet do največjega podatkovnega centra v državi.
Ponosen je, da je vladi uspelo vsako leto doseči dogovor z občinami o povprečnini, letos v višini 835 evrov, ter izvesti nekatere ključne reforme: od reforme plačnega sistema v javnem sektorju do pokojninske reforme in vzpostavitve sistema dolgotrajne oskrbe.
Ob tem je izpostavil, da so tudi zato vse večje bonitetne agencije v zadnjem letu zvišale oceno Slovenije.
Dotaknil se je tudi naraščajočih izdatkov za varnost, ki jih vidi kot nujo v spremenjenih globalnih razmerah, ter razkril, da so mu kitajski vlagatelji ob obisku predlagali izdajo tako imenovane »Luka Dončić obveznice«.
Vabljeni k ogledu in poslušanju epizode podkasta!
[ENGLISH VERSION]
Minister Boštjančič: »Investments in knowledge, health and security are investments in the future«
In the latest episode of the government GOVSI podcast, Minister of Finance Klemen Boštjančič presented the adopted state budgets for 2026 and 2027, the government’s key development priorities and the implemented reforms that contribute to strengthening Slovenia’s financial stability and long-term development.
The Minister underlined that the government’s main priorities include investments in healthcare, education, research and housing policy, as these are areas that had been significantly neglected in the past. He emphasized that the government is pursuing a responsible fiscal policy that enables investments in sustainable development – from the construction of new university faculties to the establishment of the country’s largest data centre.
Minister Boštjančič expressed satisfaction that the government has reached agreements with municipalities on the level of per capita funding (povprečnina) each year of its mandate, amounting to EUR 835 for the next period, and that it has implemented several key reforms, including the public sector pay reform, the pension reform and the introduction of the long-term care system.
He noted that these efforts have also been recognised internationally, as all major credit rating agencies upgraded Slovenia’s rating over the past year, confirming the country’s fiscal stability and credibility.
The Minister also referred to increased security-related expenditures, which he described as a necessity in light of changing global circumstances. During his recent visit to China, he said, investors even suggested issuing a »Luka Dončić bond«, illustrating Slovenia’s growing visibility and positive reputation abroad.
Tune in on your favourite platform to listen or watch the episode of podcast and enjoy the experience!
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V najnovejši epizodi vladnega GOVSI podkasta se voditelj Zoran Potič pogovarja z Mario Giovanno Sessa iz organizacije EU DisinfoLab, ki že vrsto let preučuje vpliv dezinformacijskih kampanj in spodbuja krepitve odpornosti proti manipulativnim vsebinam v digitalnem okolju.
Dezinformacije kot orodje vplivanja
Gostja pojasni, da dezinformacije niso zgolj »lažne novice«, temveč premišljeno ustvarjene in razširjene informacije z zlonamernim namenom zavajanja javnosti. Njihov cilj je spodkopavanje zaupanja v demokratične procese, institucije in medsebojno solidarnost. Posebej nevarne so, ker pogosto vsebujejo zrno resnice, ki jim daje prepričljivost.Ruske kampanje in globalne taktike
V pogovoru se sogovornika dotakneta obsežnih raziskav o ruski dezinformacijski operaciji Doppelgänger, v kateri so bile klonirane spletne strani znanih evropskih medijev, da bi širile proruske narative. Kampanja, ki še vedno traja, kaže, kako prefinjene in organizirane so takšne operacije ter kako težko jih je popolnoma odstraniti iz digitalnega prostora.Svoboda govora in odgovornost platform
Sessa poudarja, da boj proti dezinformacijam ne pomeni cenzure, temveč zaščito svobode izražanja in pravice do resničnih informacij. »Svoboda govora ni svoboden doseg,« opozarja. Ključno orodje pri tem je Zakon o digitalnih storitvah (angleško Digital Services Act - DSA), ki v Evropski uniji vzpostavlja večjo preglednost in odgovornost spletnih platform.Potrebna je skupna odpornost
Dezinformacije so postale stalnica sodobnega informacijsko-družbenega okolja, zato jih je treba obravnavati sistematično. Kot pravi gostja, »moramo biti pripravljeni ne le na odzivanje, ampak tudi na predvidevanje groženj.« Pri tem pa je nujno sodelovanje držav, raziskovalnih organizacij, medijev in civilne družbe.Vabljeni k ogledu in poslušanju epizode podkasta!
[ENGLISH VERSION]
GOVSI Podcast: Disinformation – A Global Challenge Requiring a European ResponseIn the latest episode of the government GOVSI podcast, host Zoran Potič talks with Maria Giovanna Sessa from EU DisinfoLab, an organization that has been studying the impact of disinformation campaigns for years and promotes building resilience against manipulative content in the digital environment.
The guest explains that disinformation is not merely »fake news« but deliberately created and disseminated information with the malicious intent to mislead the public. Its purpose is to undermine trust in democratic processes, institutions, and mutual solidarity. It is particularly dangerous because it often contains a grain of truth, which makes it more convincing.
The discussion touches on extensive research into the Russian disinformation operation Doppelgänger, in which cloned websites of well-known European media outlets were used to spread pro-Russian narratives. The ongoing campaign illustrates how sophisticated and organized such operations are—and how difficult it is to fully eliminate them from the digital space.
Sessa emphasizes that the fight against disinformation is not censorship, but rather a protection of freedom of expression and the right to truthful information. »Freedom of speech is not free reach,« she notes. A key instrument in this effort is the Digital Services Act (DSA), which strengthens transparency and accountability of online platforms across the European Union.
Disinformation has become a permanent feature of the modern information society, and it must be addressed in a systematic way. As Sessa states, »We must be ready not only to respond to threats, but also to anticipate them.« Achieving this requires close cooperation among governments, research institutions, the media, and civil society.
Tune in on your favourite platform to listen or
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V novi epizodi vladnega GOVSI podkasta se voditeljica Petra Bezjak Cirman pogovarja z Marijanom Papežem, dolgoletnim generalnim direktorjem Zavoda za pokojninsko in invalidsko zavarovanje Slovenije (ZPIZ). Tokratni pogovor je namenjen pokojninski reformi, ki jo je Državni zbor potrdil septembra. Ali bo uveljavljena ali ne, pa je odvisno od izida zbiranja podpisov za referendum.
Papež v pogovoru razloži, zakaj nova reforma prinaša dostojnejše pokojnine ter zakaj ne gre za rezanje pravic, temveč za krepitev vzdržnosti sistema in boljše pogoje za upokojence. Meni, da tako ugodne reforme za ljudi ne bomo več dobili. Poudari postopnost uvajanja sprememb, saj se bo upokojitvena starost postopno zviševala, vendar ne tudi delovna doba, ter našteje nekatere ugodnosti, ki čakajo sedanje in prihodnje upokojence v letu 2026. Med ključnimi novostmi so višje invalidske pokojnine, izboljšan odmerni odstotek za starše, zimski dodatek in drugi ukrepi, predvsem za tiste z najnižjimi prejemki.
Po njegovih besedah gre za »najmanj neugodno, celo prijazno reformo«, ki je rezultat dogovora med socialnimi partnerji in sindikati.
Vabljeni k ogledu in poslušanju epizode podkasta!
[ENGLISH VERSION]
GOVSI Podcast: On the Pension ReformIn the new episode of the GOVSI government podcast, host Petra Bezjak Cirman talks with Marijan Papež, long-time Director General of the Pension and Disability Insurance Institute of Slovenia (ZPIZ). The conversation focuses on the pension reform adopted by the National Assembly in September. Whether it will actually be implemented depends on the outcome of the ongoing signature collection for a referendum.
In the episode, Papež explains why the new reform introduces more decent pensions, and why it is not about cutting rights but rather about strengthening the sustainability of the pension system and ensuring better conditions for retirees. He believes that such a favorable reform for people will not happen again.
He highlights the gradual introduction of changes – the retirement age will rise slowly, but the required years of service will not increase – and outlines several benefits that will take effect in 2026, for both current and future pensioners. Among the key improvements are higher disability pensions, an improved calculation rate for parents, a winter allowance, and other measures designed primarily for those with the lowest incomes.
According to Papež, this is the »least unfavorable, even friendly reform«, achieved through agreement between social partners and trade unions.
Tune in on your favourite platform to listen or watch the episode of podcast and enjoy the experience!
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Slovenija je članica Nata že več kot dve desetletji, vendar razprave o vlaganjih v obrambo in vlogi zavezništva nikoli niso potihnile. Ob dnevu civilne obrambe je bila gostja podkasta GOVSI predstojnica Katedre za obramboslovje na Fakulteti za družbene vede, dr. Jelena Juvan.
Poudarila je, da je Nato več kot samo vojska, saj članstvo koristi celotni državi: »V Natu je celotna država in od članstva v Natu nima koristi samo vojska, ampak imamo vsi,« je dejala. Po njenem mnenju je varnost temeljni pogoj za normalno delovanje družbe – podobno kot je zdravje za posameznika.
Posebej je izpostavila, da mora biti oboroževanje razumljeno širše: »Oboroževanje je samo eden izmed vidikov krepitve odpornosti. Samo vlaganje v oboroževanje brez krepitve tudi socialne države, kar je temelj Evropske unije oziroma vseh, ki tu živimo, je napačna pot.«
V pogovoru je opozorila tudi na sodobne varnostne grožnje, od kibernetskih napadov do dezinformacijskih kampanj, ter na pomen civilne obrambe in samozaščitnega ravnanja državljanov. Kot je dejala, Slovenija sicer živi v »varnostnem mehurčku«, a prav to je lahko nevarno: »Varnost jemljemo kot nekaj samoumevnega, dokler je ne izgubimo.«
Pogovor je vodila Petra Bezjak Cirman.
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Rearmament without a welfare state is the wrong path, warns defense expert Dr. Jelena Juvan
Slovenia has been a NATO member for more than two decades, yet debates about defense spending and the role of the Alliance remain lively. On the occasion of Civil Defense Day, the guest of the GOVSI podcast was Dr. Jelena Juvan, Head of the Defense Studies Department at the Faculty of Social Sciences.
She emphasized that NATO is more than just the military, since membership benefits the entire country: “In NATO, the whole state is involved, and membership is not only beneficial for the armed forces, but for all of us,” she noted. According to her, security is the fundamental precondition for the normal functioning of society – just as health is for the individual.
Dr. Juvan stressed that rearmament should be understood more broadly: “Rearmament is only one aspect of strengthening resilience. Merely investing in weapons without strengthening the welfare state – which is the foundation of the European Union and all who live here – is the wrong path.”
In the conversation, she also warned about contemporary security threats, from cyberattacks to disinformation campaigns, and underlined the importance of civil defense and citizens’ self-protection. As she put it, Slovenia lives in a kind of “security bubble,” which may be dangerous in itself: “We take security for granted – until we lose it.”
The conversation was hosted by Petra Bezjak Cirman.
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Slovenija se sooča z eno največjih stanovanjskih kriz doslej: mladi ostajajo pri starših, cene stanovanj in najemnin strmo rastejo, javnih najemnih stanovanj je premalo. Ministrstvo za solidarno prihodnost se je zato sistematično lotilo stanovanjske politike. Kot je v GOVSI podkastu povedal državni sekretar, država vsako leto namenja 100 milijonov evrov za gradnjo novih javnih najemnih stanovanj.
Državni sekretar Klemen Ploštajner je v pogovoru z voditeljico GOVSI podkasta Petro Prešeren Golob poudaril, da je v zadnjem desetletju nastal ogromen razkorak med ponudbo in povpraševanjem. Da se na srednji in dolgi rok ponovno vzpostavi ravnovesje, bo država občinam in stanovanjskim skladom dolgoročno zagotovila stabilen finančni okvir, kar jim bo omogočilo načrtno pripravo projektov. Poleg tega država sistematično pregleduje in aktivira javna zemljišča, da bi na ta način pospešila gradnjo. Do leta 2035 bo zgrajenih kar 20.000 javnih najemnih stanovanj.
Javna najemna stanovanja bodo namenjena širokemu krogu prebivalcev – mladim, družinam, zaposlenim v ključnih poklicih ter starejšim, ki potrebujejo prilagojena oskrbovana stanovanja. Najemnine bodo ostale bistveno nižje od tržnih, hkrati pa bo država za najbolj ranljive skupine prebivalstva še naprej zagotavljala subvencijo najemnine.
»Stanovanje ne more biti privilegij, ampak je temeljna pravica,« je dejal Ploštajner. Do leta 2035 naj bi v javnih najemnih stanovanjih živelo približno 150 tisoč ljudi, kar bo pomenilo pomemben premik k bolj dostopnemu in pravičnemu stanovanjskemu sistemu.
Vabljeni k ogledu in poslušanju zadnje epizode vladnega podkasta.
[ENGLISH VERSION]
Housing policy with new momentum: €100 million annually for public rental housing
Slovenia is facing a severe housing crises: young people are living longer at their parents’ homes, housing prices and rents are soaring, and public rental housing is scarce. The Ministry for a Solidary Future has systematically addressed housing policy. As State Secretary in the GOVSI podcast, the government is investing €100 million each year in the construction of new public rental apartments.
State Secretary Klemen Ploštajner talked to the host of GOVSI podcast Petra Prešeren Golob and emphasized that in the past decade a massive gap has emerged between supply and demand. To restore balance in the medium and long term, the state will provide municipalities and housing funds with a predictable long-term financial framework, enabling them to plan projects more effectively. In addition, the government is systematically reviewing and activating public land to accelerate construction. By 2035, as many as 20,000 will be built.
Public rental housing will be available to a wide range of residents – young people, families, employees in essential professions, and the elderly who need adapted assisted-living apartments. Rents will remain significantly lower than market rates, while subsidies will continue to be available for the most vulnerable groups.
“Housing must not be a privilege but a fundamental right,” Ploštajner stated. By 2035, around 150,000 people are expected to live in public rental housing, marking an important step towards a more accessible and fair housing system.
Tune in on your favourite platform to listen or watch the episode of podcast and enjoy the experience!
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V 26. epizodi GOVSI podkasta Zoran Potič gosti Petra Grka, dolgoletnega sekretarja Blejskega strateškega foruma in diplomata, ki že več kot desetletje soustvarja enega najvidnejših slovenskih zunanjepolitičnih dogodkov.
Grk je uvodoma poudaril, da se je zunanja politika v zadnjih letih »vrnila skozi velika vrata« v vsakdanje življenje Evropejcev – bodisi skozi posledice vojn, geopolitičnih preobratov ali podnebnih kriz. Blejski strateški forum v takem kontekstu predstavlja ključen prostor za dialog, izmenjavo pogledov in iskanje odgovorov na kompleksna globalna vprašanja. Glavno poslanstvo foruma je ustvarjati okolje, kjer se akterji z različnimi pogledi slišijo in ne zgolj govorijo mimo drug drugega.
Forum se je razvil iz diplomacije po predsedovanju Organizaciji za varnost in sodelovanje v Evropi leta 2005, prva izvedba pa je bila namenjena Južnemu Kavkazu. Skozi leta je forum zrasel iz dogodka z nekaj sto udeleženci v relevantno mednarodno platformo. Eden ključnih premikov v njegovi zgodovini je bil prispevek k razpravi o vodni varnosti, ki je s panelne razprave v Bledu vplival celo na program ZN Vrh o vodi – dokaz, da lahko majhen dogodek prispeva k velikim premikom.
Grk je poudaril pomen vključenosti mladih, saj so nekateri nekdanji udeleženci mladinskega strateškega foruma kasneje postali ministri, celo premierji. Letošnja 20. izvedba foruma bo nosila naslov Pobegli svet. Kot pravi Grk, gre za razmislek o tem, kam se svet premika – in predvsem, ali Evropa zmore ta tektonski premik razumeti, se nanj odzvati in se mu prilagoditi.
Ob 20-letnici foruma se bodo odpirale teme, kot so evropska obramba, tehnološka in energetska avtonomija, boj proti dezinformacijam, podnebne spremembe in vprašanje evropske identitete.
Vabljeni k poslušanju in ogledu!
[ENGLISH VERSION]
Bled Strategic Forum 2025: A Runaway World
The 26th episode of the GOVSI podcast features Zoran Potič talking with Peter Grk, long-time Secretary General of the Bled Strategic Forum and seasoned diplomat, who has been shaping the forum for over a decade.
Grk began by emphasizing that foreign policy has, in recent years, re-entered the daily lives of Europeans—whether through the consequences of war, geopolitical upheavals, or climate crises. In this context, the Bled Strategic Forum serves as a crucial platform for dialogue, exchanging viewpoints, and seeking responses to complex global challenges. According to Grk, the forum’s core mission is to foster an environment where diverse actors actually listen to one another—not just talk past each other.
Originally launched following Slovenia’s 2005 OSCE Chairmanship, the first edition of the Bled Strategic Forum focused on the South Caucasus. Since then, the forum has grown from a small event of a few hundred participants into an internationally relevant platform. One of its most notable milestones was its contribution to the global water security debate, which started with a modest panel in Bled and eventually influenced the agenda of the UN Water Conference.
Grk also highlighted the growing inclusion of youth voices. Several participants of the Bled Youth Strategic Forum have gone on to become ministers and even prime ministers. This year’s 20th edition of the Bled Strategic Forum carries the title The Runaway World. Grk explains that the forum will examine the notion of a world drifting away—from Western influence and values—and the urgent question of whether Europe can still adapt, respond, and remain resilient amid these tectonic changes.
The agenda will tackle critical topics such as European defence, technological and energy autonomy, disinformation, cyber security, climate change, and perhaps most importantly, the question of European identity. The forum can be followed live and across social media.
Tune in and watch!
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V novi epizodi vladnega GOVSI podkasta, ki ga pripravlja Urad vlade za komuniciranje, se voditeljica Petra Prešeren Golob pogovarja z ministrom za solidarno prihodnost Simonom Maljevcem o sistemu dolgotrajne oskrbe, ki predstavlja tretji temeljni steber socialne varnosti, poleg pokojninskega in zdravstvenega zavarovanja.
Minister pojasnjuje, kako sistem temelji na solidarnosti, je dostopen vsem in omogoča, da pomoč prejmejo vsi, ki jo potrebujejo – ne glede na starost ali socialni status. Predstavi štiri temeljne pravice, ki jih dolgotrajna oskrba vključuje, med njimi tudi oskrbo na domu, e-oskrbo in denarni prejemek.
V pogovoru izpostavita tudi demografske izzive starajoče se družbe in pomen dolgotrajne oskrbe kot odziv nanje. Minister poudarja, da gre za največjo spremembo na področju socialnega varstva v zadnjih 50 letih in da je cilj sistema, da omogoči dostojno in samostojno življenje v domačem okolju čim več ljudem.
Vabljeni k poslušanju in ogledu!
[ENGLISH VERSION]
Long-Term Care – The Third Pillar of Social Security
In the latest episode of the GOVSI government podcast, produced by the Slovenian Government Communication Office, host Petra Prešeren Golob speaks with the Minister for a Solidary Future, Simon Maljevac, about the long-term care system – now established as the third fundamental pillar of social security, alongside pension and health insurance.
The Minister explains how the system is based on solidarity, ensuring equal access for all, regardless of age or financial status. He outlines the four core rights within long-term care, including in-home care, e-care, and cash benefits.
The conversation also highlights the demographic challenges of an aging society and presents long-term care as a timely and essential response. The Minister emphasizes that this represents the biggest reform in social welfare in the past 50 years, with the aim of enabling as many people as possible to live independently and with dignity in their own homes.
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V 24. epizodi vladnega podkasta Gov.si je gostoval minister za vzgojo in izobraževanje dr. Vinko Logaj. V pogovoru s Petro Bezjak Cirman je predstavil ključne zakonodajne spremembe v šolstvu, ki jih je vlada sprejela v zadnjem letu, in izpostavil pomen javnega izobraževanja v Sloveniji. Po njegovem mnenju se pogosto premalo zavedamo prednosti, ki jih omogoča dostopno in kakovostno javno šolstvo – od vrtcev do univerz, kar je po njegovem prepričanju eden od temeljev enakih možnosti za vse otroke.
Minister je predstavil novosti, kot so spremembe financiranja zasebnih vrtcev, postopno uvajanje novega predmeta informatike in digitalnih tehnologij v osnovnih šolah ter pomembno reformo sistema ocenjevanja. Dotaknila sta se tudi aktualnih tem, kot so pomanjkanje učiteljev, uporaba mobilnih telefonov v šolah in ukrepi za zagotavljanje varnega učnega okolja. Minister je izpostavil, da se s temi izzivi spoprijemajo z vrsto ukrepov – od kadrovskih prilagoditev do štipendij in spodbud za mlade učitelje.
Ob koncu šolskega leta je minister Logaj vsem učencem in učiteljem zaželel miren zaključek ter prijetne in zaslužene počitnice. Ob tem je izpostavil pomen sodelovanja šole, staršev in širše skupnosti pri vzgoji in izobraževanju mladih. Celoten pogovor, ki ponuja vpogled v aktualno stanje in prihodnje načrte slovenskega šolskega sistema, si lahko ogledate ali poslušate na vseh platformah podkasta Gov.si.
[ENGLISH VERSION]
Gov.si Podcast: Minister Logaj on Reforms and the Future of Education
In the 24th episode of the Gov.si government podcast, Minister of Education Dr. Vinko Logaj joined host Petra Bezjak Cirman to discuss the latest legislative reforms in the Slovenian education system. He highlighted the value of accessible and high-quality public education, which he sees as a key foundation for ensuring equal opportunities for all children. Minister Logaj emphasized that Slovenians often take this system for granted, even though elsewhere education often comes with high financial burdens.
The episode covered various policy updates, including changes to the funding of private kindergartens, the gradual introduction of a new compulsory subject—Informatics and Digital Technologies—in primary schools, and a reformed grading and assessment system. The minister also addressed current challenges such as teacher shortages, mobile phone use in schools, and efforts to ensure a safe and inclusive learning environment. Measures such as hiring flexibility, increased scholarships, and non-profit housing for young teachers are part of the government’s strategy to attract and retain qualified staff.
As the school year comes to a close, Minister Logaj extended his best wishes to teachers and students, encouraging a joyful and stress-free end to the year and a well-deserved summer break. He underscored the importance of collaboration among schools, families, and the wider community in educating the next generation. You can watch or listen to the full episode of the Gov.si podcast on all major platforms.
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Dr. Erik Brecelj za GOVSI podkast: Hočem živeti v državi, kjer je zdravstvo dostopno vsem
V 22. epizodi podkasta Gov.si, ki ga pripravlja Urad Vlade RS za komuniciranje, je voditeljica Petra Bezjak Cirman gostila dr. Erika Breclja, kirurga na Onkološkem inštitutu in vodjo Strateškega sveta za zdravstvo. V pogovoru sta osvetlila ključne izzive in reforme slovenskega zdravstvenega sistema ter vlogo strateškega sveta kot posvetovalnega telesa pri predsedniku vlade.
Osrednja tema je bila novela Zakona o zdravstveni dejavnosti, ki prinaša pomembne spremembe, med drugim vzpostavitev regijskega modela in jasnejšo razmejitev med javnim in zasebnim zdravstvom. Dr. Brecelj je dejal, da je pri vodenju strateškega sveta spoznal, kako se »praktično vse probleme da rešiti – za nekatere potrebujemo leta, druge pa lahko izboljšamo v nekaj tednih«. Poudaril je tudi, da se ob sprejeti noveli zakona o zdravstveni dejavnosti preveč izpostavlja ločitev javnega in zasebnega, čeprav zakon vsebuje številne rešitve, ki so že desetletja čakale na uresničitev.
Posebej je izpostavil pomen ohranjanja dostopnega in kakovostnega javnega zdravstva, ki ga ne smemo jemati za samoumevnega. »Hočem živeti v državi, kjer je zdravstvo dostopno vsem – revnim in bogatim – in kjer ni treba iz žepa plačevati storitev,« je poudaril. Ob tem pa opozoril na nevarnosti modelov, ki temeljijo na komercializaciji zdravstva in pogosto puščajo najranljivejše brez ustrezne oskrbe.
Epizoda ponuja vpogled v delovanje zdravstvene politike v praksi, premislek o dolgoročnih sistemskih rešitvah ter navdihujočo osebno predanost poklicnemu poslanstvu.
Epizoda je na voljo na vseh večjih platformah za podkaste in na gov.si.
[ENGLISH VERSION]
Dr. Erik Brecelj on the GOVSI Podcast: "I want to live in a country where healthcare is accessible to everyone"
In the 22nd episode of the Gov.si podcast, produced by the Slovenian Government Communication Office, host Petra Bezjak Cirman welcomed Dr. Erik Brecelj, a surgeon at the Institute of Oncology Ljubljana and Chair of the Strategic Council for Healthcare. Their conversation shed light on the key challenges and reforms in Slovenia’s healthcare system, as well as the role of the strategic council as an advisory body to the Prime Minister.
The central topic of discussion was the amendment to the Healthcare Services Act, which introduces important changes such as the establishment of a regional healthcare model and a clearer distinction between public and private healthcare. Dr. Brecelj noted that, through leading the strategic council, he had come to realise that “virtually all problems can be solved – some take years, others can be improved in a matter of weeks.” He emphasised that too much attention has been given to the public-private divide, while the act actually contains numerous long-overdue solutions.
He particularly stressed the importance of preserving accessible and high-quality public healthcare, warning that it should never be taken for granted. “I want to live in a country where healthcare is accessible to everyone – rich and poor – and where people don’t have to pay for services out of pocket,” he said. He also warned about the risks of commercialised healthcare models, which often leave the most vulnerable without proper care.
The episode offers a real-world insight into how healthcare policy is shaped and implemented, a reflection on long-term systemic solutions, and an inspiring look at personal dedication to the mission of public service.
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Ob 80. obletnici konca druge svetovne vojne in ob dnevu Evrope Urad vlade za komuniciranje v novi epizodi GOVSI podkasta gosti dr. Aleša Gabriča, uglednega zgodovinarja in predsednika Slovenske matice. Z voditeljem Zoranom Potičem razmišljata o pomenu 9. maja nekoč in danes – kot dnevu zmage, dnevu osvoboditve in dnevu povezovanja Evrope.
Epizoda osvetljuje, kako so evropske države po drugi svetovni vojni izhajale iz protifašistične koalicije in zakaj so vrednote miru, povezovanja in sodelovanja še danes temelj evropske prihodnosti. Dotakneta se tudi sodobnih izzivov, kot so vojne grožnje, porast skrajnih ideologij in vprašanje sprave v Sloveniji. Ob tem dr. Gabrič izpostavi pomen zgodovinskega spomina in vloge manjših narodov pri gradnji močne, solidarne Evrope.
Vabljeni k poslušanju in ogledu!
[ENGLISH VERSION]
80 Years After Victory: Do We Still Understand the Message of History?
On the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War and in celebration of Europe Day, the Government Communication Office presents a new episode of the GOVSI podcast featuring Dr. Aleš Gabrič, a renowned historian and president of the Slovenian Academy of Sciences and Arts. In conversation with host Zoran Potič, they reflect on the meaning of May 9—once and today—as a day of victory, liberation, and European unity.
The episode explores how post-war Europe emerged from the anti-fascist coalition and why the values of peace, cooperation, and unity remain the foundation of Europe's future. The discussion also touches on today’s challenges, such as the threat of war, the rise of extremist ideologies, and the unresolved issue of reconciliation in Slovenia. Dr. Gabrič highlights the importance of historical memory and the role of small nations in building a strong and united Europe.
Tune in and watch!
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