Slovenia's government

In a significant move by Slovenia's government, an amnesty initiative has been unveiled, ensuring refunds for fines imposed on thousands of individuals during the pandemic period. The decision comes after the prior administration's COVID policies were deemed unconstitutional, prompting the return of almost 6 million euros' worth of penalties.

Janez Zemljarič, a politician who held several top positions during communist times and was believed to have retained significant power after Slovenia's independence, was laid to rest at Ljubljana Žale cemetery on 6 January. The government's decision to bury him with military honours sparked controversy as Zemljarič also served as the head of secret police.

A new report published on Wednesday says that Slovenia, which takes over the rotating presidency of the EU on Friday, "has seen press freedom deteriorate ever since [Prime Minister Janez] Jansa returned to power in March 2020".

Croatia's Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs sent a diplomatic note to Slovenia on Thursday, Beta is reporting.

Zagreb urged Ljubljana not to unilaterally implement the arbitration ruling that Croatia does not recognize, regarding their maritime border.

BELGRADE - Slovenia's government approved amendments to its law on foreigners Thursday to enable police to seal the country's borders to illegal migrants for a limited period if needed.