AGP Executive Report

EU Culture & Slovenia in the Spotlight: Athens’ National Museum of Contemporary Art (EMST) has been shortlisted for the European Art Museum Award, with Ljubljana’s National Gallery of Slovenia named among the six finalists. Regional Environment & Cross-border Fallout: Tens of thousands marched in Zagreb demanding action over an illegal toxic-waste dump near Gospić, with protesters citing soil contamination and “forever chemicals” in groundwater; authorities say around 35,000 tonnes were involved and that shipments allegedly came from Italy, Germany and Slovenia, while calls include a waste-import moratorium and a nationwide cleanup plan within 20 days. International Politics & War-Crimes Row: The EU Enlargement Commissioner cancelled a Serbia visit after the death of convicted war criminal Ratko Mladić, citing “glorification,” as Balkan condemnation grows around plans for ceremonial honours. Sports (Slovenian angle): United Airlines’ new 2027 nonstop route list includes Ljubljana, while football coverage highlights Slovenia’s Benjamin Šeško and other players in the wider European sports churn.

EU Foreign Policy & Rule of Law: EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos cancelled a planned Serbia visit after Serbia’s handling of the death of convicted war criminal Ratko Mladić, citing “glorification” concerns—an issue drawing condemnation across the Balkans. Environmental Accountability: In Croatia, tens of thousands marched in Zagreb demanding an urgent plan to clean up illegally dumped hazardous waste in the Lika region near Gospić, with authorities investigating suspected cross-border waste imports and protesters pressing for deadlines and a moratorium. Regional Security & Diplomacy: The Mladić repatriation and planned ceremonial reception have become a flashpoint, with Bosnia and others warning that honoring him undermines UN values. Slovenia-Linked Mobility: Thailand is tightening visa-free rules from Sept 15, cutting stays for many nationalities (including Slovenia) and changing entry categories—an update likely to affect regional travel planning. Sports (Low Local Relevance): Football and cycling items dominated the rest of the week’s feed, but they don’t add much to Ljubljana’s political-government agenda.

EU Enlargement & Balkans: EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos cancelled a planned Serbia visit after Ratko Mladić’s death, citing Serbia’s “glorification” of the convicted war criminal; the controversy is spilling into wider regional condemnation. Public Protest & Environment: Tens of thousands marched in Zagreb demanding urgent cleanup of illegally dumped hazardous waste in Gospic, with protesters and NGOs pressing for a clear remediation plan and deadlines after investigations tied the dumping to imports including Slovenia. Slovenia in EU Budget Talks: Prime Minister Janez Janša reiterated Slovenia’s push for a “balanced” EU budget that protects cohesion, CAP, and innovation funding while covering new priorities like security and defence. Ljubljana/Regional Governance: The EU4ADMIN project wrapped up in Bosnia and Herzegovina, aiming to improve how administrative data feeds official statistics—an EU-style governance upgrade with legal and institutional reforms. Sports & National Team Links: Hearts’ Josh McPake and James Wilson boosted Scotland call-up hopes after derby performances, while Rangers’ Lawrence Shankland faces months out with a hamstring injury that could affect Nations League plans involving Slovenia.

Public Finance Watch: PM Janez Janša told a Ljubljana forum that Slovenia’s public spending has climbed from about 47% of GDP in 2022 to over 50% now, warning it’s unsustainable and backing a fiscal “anchor” to cap expenditure, plus plans to streamline administration and cut red tape. EU Budget Negotiations: Janša also pushed for a “fair and balanced” EU budget that protects cohesion, CAP, innovation and security priorities, arguing enlargement and competitiveness must be funded. Diplomacy & Trade: Hong Kong and Slovenia signed a comprehensive double-taxation agreement to cut withholding tax rates and boost cross-border investment. International Politics: The EU’s enlargement commissioner Marta Kos canceled a Serbia visit after what she called Serbia’s “glorification” of war criminal Ratko Mladić, following his death and return to Belgrade. Security & Law Enforcement: Slovenia’s parliament lifted former PM Robert Golob’s immunity in a police-meddling probe. Tourism & Economy: Slovenia reported 2.2 million tourist arrivals in July-August (+7%) and 6.3 million overnight stays (+7%), with direct US flights next spring flagged as a potential boost for Ljubljana and Bled. Energy & Industry: Interblock named Marco Balliano as president and COO for EMEA, based in Mengeš, to lead manufacturing planning, quality and procurement across Europe, the Middle East and North Africa.

AI & Rights: The 6th ASEM Forum in Seoul urged that older people be treated as rights-holders in the age of AI, warning of discrimination, digital exclusion, privacy risks and loss of autonomy. EU Budget Fight: Senior EU officials in Dublin pushed for new Europe-wide “own resources” and taxes to fund the next long-term budget, clashing with “frugal” states. Public Spending & Governance: Slovenia’s PM Janez Janša called for tighter control of public spending, warning it has climbed above 50% of GDP and backing a fiscal/tax “anchor,” plus streamlined administration and less red tape. International Tax Deal: Hong Kong and Slovenia signed a comprehensive double taxation agreement to cut withholding tax rates and boost cross-border trade and investment. Diplomacy & Sanctions: Ireland urged the EU to adopt a tougher, more unified response to Israel, including expanded sanctions—while EU members remain divided. Regional Politics: EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos canceled a Serbia visit after what she called the “glorification” of Ratko Mladić following his death. Tourism & Economy: Slovenia reported summer tourism up year-on-year, with growth driven by key markets and a push for direct US flights. Transport & Business: United Airlines announced new nonstop routes including Ljubljana, and Slovenia’s EXPO 2027 participation contract was signed in Belgrade.

Anti-Government Protest in Ljubljana: About 2,500 people gathered in front of Slovenia’s parliament on Sept. 2, the first big street demonstration against Prime Minister Janez Janša’s government since the right-of-centre coalition took office in June. Organised by Voice of the People, the rally focused on allegations against government-supporting MP Boris Mijić, including fraud, unpaid debts and misleading claims about his university degree, with protesters calling for his resignation and criticising the coalition’s welfare and healthcare stance. EU Courtroom Cooperation: Slovenia’s first-instance conviction of an asylum seeker for ISIS membership in Iraq was backed by Eurojust support in securing key evidence from Iraq, helping authorities act before remand limits expired. AI Policy Push: Nine Central and Eastern European countries, including Slovenia, signed the Prague AI Declaration to deepen cooperation on AI infrastructure, research and EU policy positions. Local Economy & Jobs: Interblock named Marco Balliano as EMEA president and COO, based in Mengeš, to oversee manufacturing planning, quality, procurement and service operations. Business Recognition in Ljubljana: Fora d.o.o., Perception CloudWorks’ software arm headquartered in Ljubljana, was named in Future 100 Slovenia at the Bled Strategic Forum. International Security Fallout: Serbia received Ratko Mladic’s body with military honours, drawing EU criticism over “glorification of war criminals.”

Government & Youth Policy: Slovenia’s government amended the rules for Zois scholarships, easing an earlier restriction that limited eligibility to publicly funded competitions, aiming to cut red tape and better reward top achievements. Energy & Climate: Slovenia recorded its hottest summer on record in 2026, with an average July-August temperature 2.8°C above the 1991–2020 norm, alongside an extremely severe drought and major pressure on the Triglav glacier. EU Politics & War Crimes: EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos criticised Serbia’s plans to bury Ratko Mladić with state honours, calling it “glorification of war criminals” that has no place in EU values. Foreign Policy & Elections: Ahead of Israel’s October elections, Western allies are debating tougher measures as West Bank violence and settlement expansion continue to strain relations. Regional Diplomacy: EU Council President Antonio Costa is set to meet Slovenia’s PM Janez Janša in Ljubljana as part of his EU capitals tour focused on the next financial framework. International Mobility (Work Rules): Switzerland, the Netherlands and Iceland published lists of countries whose citizens can work without a permit under EU/EFTA-style arrangements, including Slovenia. Sports & Slovenia Link: Scotland’s Nations League squad planning is in focus as Hearts players (including those linked to Slovenia via matches) and Napoli’s Scott McTominay weigh fitness after health issues.

Parliament & Justice: Slovenia’s National Assembly voted to lift former PM Robert Golob’s parliamentary immunity, clearing the way for prosecutors to continue the “Bobnar case” over alleged interference in police staffing after he took office in 2022. EU Politics: The EU’s push to curb war-criminal glorification keeps spilling into the region, with Croatia’s PM condemning Serbia’s tributes to Ratko Mladić and warning Serbia has not gone through “catharsis.” Regional Diplomacy: Bulgaria’s President Rumen Radev is set to meet European Council President Antonio Costa in Sofia, with Costa’s EU Capitals Tour also taking him to Ljubljana for talks with PM Janez Janša. Business & Economy: A new report on minimum wages shows Spain’s 2026 rise (3.1%) lagging most of the EU, while Slovenia’s increase (16%) stands out—though pay structures differ. Energy & Industry: Slovenske elektrarne representatives visited Armenia’s nuclear plant to discuss safe operations, long-term unit performance, modernization, and best-practice exchange. Travel & Policy: From Sept 7, Brits face renewed friction at EU borders as EES “biometric lift” measures end, potentially bringing back long queues. Culture & Heritage: UNESCO-backed talks in Burgas focus on safeguarding maritime heritage and fishing traditions, including how to embed them in tourism and museum policy.

Parliament & Justice: Slovenia’s National Assembly voted to lift former PM Robert Golob’s parliamentary immunity, clearing the way for prosecutors to pursue the “Bobnar case” over alleged interference in police staffing after he took office in 2022. EU Politics: The same week’s wider Central European push for influence in Brussels surfaced at the Bled Strategic Forum, where Czech PM Andrej Babiš urged coalitions of “friends of competitiveness” and “friends of cohesion” to shape the 2028–2034 EU budget. Security & Diplomacy: At Bled, Germany’s defence leadership warned NATO is not deterred enough against Russia’s hybrid attacks after a reported drone incident at Leipzig/Halle airport. Regional Politics: Croatia’s PM Andrej Plenković condemned Serbia’s tributes to convicted war criminal Ratko Mladić, arguing Serbia has not undergone “catharsis.” Economy & Business: Prime Minister Janez Janša told the business community the government will remove administrative barriers and improve stability and predictability for investment. Public Media: RTV Slovenia is described as facing a liquidity crisis tied to loans, high salaries and internal disputes, with calls for a special audit. Travel Rules: From Sept 7, the EU Entry/Exit System is expected to run without summer relaxations, raising the stakes for Brits heading into Schengen.

RTVS Crisis: Slovenia’s public broadcaster RTVS is reportedly nearing a liquidity collapse, with claims of worsening finances tied to loans from the state treasury, high costs and internal management disputes. Media Pluralism Debate: A separate commentary argues Slovenia still lacks a balanced, plural media landscape and calls for stronger state action to break up excessive ownership concentration. EU Foreign Policy at Bled: Central European leaders used the Bled Strategic Forum to push for a more assertive regional role in EU decision-making, while EU officials also warned Serbia against any “glorification” of war criminal Ratko Mladić. Israel–EU Tensions: Coverage highlights how Slovenia’s government shift is reshaping EU stances on Israel, with claims that Ljubljana could block unanimous EU sanctions. Regional Security: Germany’s defence leadership says NATO is not deterred enough against Russia’s hybrid attacks, after a reported drone incident at Leipzig/Halle. Economy & Society: Eurostat data shows a sharp divide in paid online streaming subscriptions, with Slovenia among the lowest in the EU. Transport & Travel: airBaltic plans fewer direct Riga routes for next summer, while Thailand is cutting visa-free tourist stays from 60 to 30 days from mid-September.

EU Foreign Policy Deadlock: Eleven EU countries back a five-point “handbook” to curb veto obstruction in foreign and security policy, including using “constructive abstentions” and avoiding unrelated objections. Bled Strategic Forum: Central European leaders argue the region must use growing weight to shape EU direction, with Slovenia’s PM Janez Janša and others pushing for Europe to “shape its own future.” War Crimes Diplomacy: EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos warned Serbia against any state or military honours for convicted war criminal Ratko Mladić, saying “glorification” has no place in EU or candidate countries. Israel Settlements Clash: Slovenia’s government and president are again at odds over blocking/condemning EU statements on Israeli settlement plans, keeping the Western Balkans and EU enlargement debate tightly linked to security politics. Climate & Agriculture: European farmers press for a more resilient CAP as heat and drought hit crops hard, with Slovenia cited for major corn and fruit losses. Local Governance & Society: A Slovenian casino operator reopens after a cyberattack disrupted gaming systems. International Spotlight: A Ukrainian museum in Canada is nominated for a ŽIVA Award for preserving Slavic heritage.

EU Foreign Policy at Bled Strategic Forum: Central and Eastern European leaders used Slovenia’s Bled gathering to push EU reform and faster enlargement, with Prime Minister Janez Janša warning the bloc must act or “someone else” will benefit, while Hungary’s Péter Magyar framed Brussels as facing a leadership crisis. EU Enlargement & War Crimes: Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos condemned Serbia’s reported plan to grant state honors to convicted war criminal Ratko Mladić, saying “glorification” has no place in EU values. Slovenia–Israel EU clash: Multiple reports highlight the ongoing dispute over whether Slovenia should back an EU condemnation of Israeli settlement plans, with the president and government again at odds. Cyberattack fallout in Slovenia: HIT Group began reopening Slovenian casinos after an Aug. 24–25 cyberattack disrupted gaming systems, with some functions still offline. Regional security cooperation: EU defence ministers met in Ireland amid concerns about Russia-linked drone incidents and pressure for EU military support to Ukraine. International mobility rules: Germany confirmed 31 countries whose citizens can work without visas; Thailand cut visa-free tourist stays from 60 to 30 days from Sept. 15, 2026.

EU Foreign Policy & Veto Fight: Germany is pushing an EU plan to reduce single-country veto power in foreign policy, using more abstentions and tighter limits on national objections—an issue that hits Slovenia directly after it blocked a unified EU statement on Israel’s West Bank settlement plans. Bled Strategic Forum: Hungary’s Péter Magyar warned the EU faces a leadership crisis and must choose “survive or win,” while Central European leaders called for EU reform and faster enlargement. EU Enlargement & War Crimes: Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos condemned Serbia’s reported plan to give state honors to convicted war criminal Ratko Mladić, saying “glorification” has no place in EU values. Slovenia-US Security: Prime Minister statements at Bled stressed NATO and the transatlantic partnership, plus reducing strategic dependencies. Cyber & Economy: HIT Group began reopening Slovenian casinos after a cyberattack shut six properties, with some gaming and loyalty systems still offline. Church Safeguarding: New reporting revisits the long-running Father Marko Rupnik abuse case and Vatican moves around his artwork. Migration Enforcement: A Frontex operation across 17 countries arrested 112 suspected migrant smugglers and found document fraud on the Western Balkans route.

EU Foreign Policy Clash: Slovenia’s PM Janez Janša vetoed a joint EU statement condemning Israel’s E1 settlement plan, sparking a public fight with President Nataša Pirc Musar over whether international law should override national foreign policy. Israel–EU Tensions: Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu used the dispute to accuse the EU of “double standards,” contrasting its stance on E1 with Turkey’s occupation of northern Cyprus. Human Rights Pressure: Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir posted a video confronting Palestinian women prisoners over alleged worsening detention conditions, drawing condemnation and calls for EU sanctions. Climate & Borders: The EU adopted Greece’s €4.8bn Social Climate Plan to cushion ETS2 impacts, while a separate EU move keeps biometric border checks paused until early September. Environment & Heat: Extreme drought is hitting Europe’s fish and water systems, with Slovenia and the wider region facing rising ecosystem and economic losses. Ljubljana in Travel News: United Airlines announced new nonstop routes from Newark, including Ljubljana, starting May 12, 2027.

EU-Israel Rift in Ljubljana: Slovenia’s PM Janez Janša vetoed a joint EU statement condemning Israel’s E1 West Bank settlement plans, triggering a sharp clash with President Nataša Pirc Musar, who warned “international law is not a matter of political choice.” EU Foreign Policy Fallout: Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu escalated the dispute, accusing the EU of double standards—praising Janša for opposing the statement and contrasting EU criticism of Israel with alleged EU silence over Turkey’s Cyprus occupation. Climate Pressure on the Region: Extreme drought and heat are hitting Europe’s ecosystems hard, with fish dying in shrinking Danube side channels and losses spreading to Slovenia-linked waters and farms. Tourism vs. Protection: Cape Kamenjak faces ongoing environmental pressure from summer visitors, with traffic limits and closures starting to protect the protected landscape. Aviation & Connectivity (Ljubljana in focus): United Airlines announced new nonstop routes for 2027, including four weekly flights from Newark to Ljubljana starting May 12. Sports—Vuelta Update: Tadej Pogačar is out after a crash, while Enric Mas won Vuelta stage nine to take/retain the red jersey ahead of Primož Roglič.

Israel-EU Rift in Ljubljana: Slovenia’s PM Janez Janša and President Nataša Pirc Musar clash over whether Ljubljana will back an EU statement condemning Israel’s West Bank E1 settlement plan, with Musar warning international law can’t be “political choice” and Janša arguing sovereignty means Slovenia isn’t bound by EU foreign-policy positions without consent. Border Tech Deadline: The EU’s September 6 end-date for pausing biometric checks under the EES framework raises fears of renewed airport queues as airports brace for heavy summer travel plus new enrolments. Climate Pressure on Water and Food: Extreme drought and heat are damaging ecosystems across the region, including fish losses in Slovenia-linked river systems and Serbia’s Danube side channels, adding to wider costs for energy, water, and crops. Tourism vs. Protection: Cape Kamenjak faces ongoing environmental pressure from high visitor demand despite fewer vehicles entering the protected area, prompting traffic closures to reduce congestion. EU Energy Tax Relief: Spain gets EU approval to temporarily cut petrol and diesel excise duties below EU minimums to ease household and business costs amid Middle East-driven price volatility.