Slovenia Country Report

The Republic of Slovenia is a safe and stable democratic country in central Europe. Slovenia has always been a prosperous region, first in the Austro-Hungarian Empire and then in former Yugoslavia, and has found the transition from a socialist economy to the capitalist free market more straightforward than most.

The biggest threat to foreign travelers is from petty and opportunistic theft. Foreigners may be targeted for perceived wealth. Unrest occurs periodically over various socio-economic and political issues. Protests are typically low-level and peaceful but have the potential to escalate into violence. The EU-migrant crisis has stoked some tensions over immigration and low-level protests. The country is culturally homogeneous and is not particularly welcoming to migrants. Corruption is a problem and foreigners may be solicited for bribes.

Slovenia is a member of NATO, the EU, the eurozone, and the Schengen area.

There is no particular conflict threat facing Slovenia, and its terrorism threat is low. Petty and opportunistic crime is the most prominent threat, most likely to occur on public transport or near touristic areas. Protests occur periodically over political issues and perceived corruption. Protests are typically low-level and peaceful but have the potential to escalate into violence.

There are no serious concerns over air travel.

Overland travel is generally safe, road conditions are considered good.

Port of Koper is considered efficient.

Slovenia’s utilities are dependable.

There is growing concern over cyber-attacks targeting government or business interests.

Earthquakes occur periodically and are typically moderate in strength. Slovenia is comprised four seasons, and the summer months (April to September) see heavy rainfall that can cause flooding.

There are no significant medical concerns in Slovenia. Good-quality medical care is available, and pharmacies are generally well-stocked. Tap water is considered safe to drink.

Slovenia is a unitary multi-party parliamentary republic. The President is the head of state and the Prime Minister is the head of government. Presidential elections take place once every five years. The Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers form the government and exercise executive power. The incomplete bicameral parliament of Slovenia consists of the National Assembly (lower house) and the National Council (upper house), but the National Assembly exercises most of the legislative power. Parliamentary elections take place once every four years. The judiciary is independent of the executive and the legislature.

Coalitions featuring a cross-section of political parties are typically required to form the government. Government collapses are rare. State institutions are competent and effective and provide reliable services across the country.