In international organisations

Since gaining independence, Slovenia has successfully assumed demanding tasks within the scope of international organisations. This includes membership in the UN Security Council during the 1998–1999 period; double membership in the UN Human Rights Council (2007–2010, 2016–2018) along with the presidency of the Council in 2018; twice holding the presidency of the Council of the European Union (2008, 2021), chairmanship of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (2005); and chairmanship of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe (2009).

Slovenia and its representatives have also successfully applied for membership in various bodies of international organisations as well as for professional functions in these organisations. The year 2021 was particularly successful in this respect, with election to the Executive Board of the World Health Organization 2021–2024, the UN Commission on Narcotic Drugs 2022–2025, the Governing Body of the International Labour Organization for the period from June 2021 to June 2024, the Food and Agriculture Organization Council for the period from July 2022 to June 2024; and a fourth election to the Board of Governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency for the 2021–2023 period. The Slovenian representative was confirmed as Vice-Chair of the 76^th session of the UN General Assembly and a Slovenian expert was elected Deputy Director General of the Universal Postal Union for the 2022–2025 period.

In recent years, Slovenian diplomats have proved their worth as members or chairs of various UN General Assembly committees, which strengthens Slovenia’s position as a responsible and active member of the international community.

Slovenia regularly and fully discharges its financial obligations towards the UN, as regards both the regular budget and the budget for UN peacekeeping operations.

Contribution to peace and security

By sending personnel to international peacekeeping operations, Slovenia responds to modern security risks responsibly and with solidarity. Slovenian personnel participating in international operations and missions are diligent, exemplary and successful in pursuing Slovenia’s interests, thereby contributing to the positive promotion and visibility of the country in the world. They are known for their professionalism, expertise and skill. In the areas in which they operate, the civilian population regards them positively and with trust.

Slovenia also strengthens its reputation in the field of peace and security through educational programmes for civilian and service personnel prior to their departure on various missions.

Human rights

As to human rights, Slovenia devotes particular attention to the following global challenges: climate change in the context of human rights and the pandemic, artificial intelligence, closing the gaps in addressing ageing societies and the importance of awareness-raising and education. After many years of efforts, Slovenia, together with four countries, achieved in October 2021 that the UN Human Rights Council adopted a resolution on the recognition of the right to a healthy environment. At the 48^th session of the Human Rights Council, the first substantive resolution on the rights of older people, presented by Slovenia, Argentina and Brazil, was adopted unanimously.

Respect for international law

Slovenia is a staunch supporter of international law as the best guarantee of international peace and security. It consistently advocates for the strengthening of the rule of law, including mechanisms for the peaceful settlement of disputes and respect for the decisions of international courts and tribunals. It promotes cooperation in the fight against impunity and ensuring accountability for the most serious international crimes, with a view to strengthening international security, preventing conflicts and promoting reconciliation.

A sustainable future for the planet

Within the United Nations, Slovenia is known as an active partner in addressing topics that are vital for the wider membership of the Organisation and for comprehensively addressing current international challenges. It supports a post-pandemic recovery based on green principles and strengthening the resilience of societies. It leads active environmental, climate and water diplomacy and advocates comprehensive solutions in the areas of food security and global health.

Solidarity and assistance

Through development cooperation and humanitarian aid, Slovenia contributes to more balanced and equitable global development and assumes a shared responsibility for eradicating poverty, reducing inequalities and achieving sustainable development in partner countries. In addition to actively cooperating with international and other organisations to address development challenges and humanitarian needs around the world, Slovenia supports the implementation of bilateral projects carried out by its institutions and other partners. In recent years, special attention has been devoted to global health, with Slovenia providing in-kind assistance (including large-scale vaccine donations) in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic and supporting the work of international organisations and other partners on the ground through financial contributions.