Debate | 21/01/2008
by Veronika Wengert
Slovenia will assume the presidency of the EU Council for the first half of 2008 – the first of the new EU countries to do so. Europe has major hopes regarding Slovenia's ability to engage in crisis management in the Balkans. But how is Slovenia responding to these challenges? » more
Background | 21/01/2008
by Iztok Sori
Slovenia – since the takeover of the EU council presidency, this small and previously rather unknown EU-newcomer has been thrust into the limelight. Much has been reported about Slovenia's assignments and targets for over the next half-year. Its economic success, too, is repeatedly emphasized. Yet how has this country become so successful? A view from the interior by the Slovenian journalist Iztok Sori. » more
Essay | 09/01/2008
by Peter Rak
A decade and a half after the declaration of Slovenian independence and three years after EU accession, Slovenian political and cultural life is stagnating, writes Peter Rak. A confrontational political style together with liberal posturing is producing an isolationist discourse reminiscent of the Cold War. A moderate sense of national spirit and collective self-love is the only way forward, writes Rak. » more