UN Committee Reviews Slovenia’s Anti-Discrimination Record and Concerns Over New Security Law

The United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (CERD) has concluded its latest review of Slovenia, acknowledging significant progress in strengthening anti-discrimination frameworks while raising concerns over persistent inequalities faced by Roma communities and the potential impact of a controversial 2025 public safety law.

The review examined Slovenia's combined twelfth to fourteenth periodic reports on its implementation of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, highlighting both institutional advances and ongoing structural challenges.

Strong Legal Framework Praised

Committee experts commended Slovenia for building a robust legal and institutional architecture to combat discrimination over the past decade.

Key measures highlighted include:

• The Protection Against Discrimination Act (2016)

• Explicit prohibition of incitement to discrimination and racist conduct

• Establishment of the Advocate of the Principle of Equality

• Accreditation of the Ombudsman with "A" status under the Paris Principles

These steps were described as evidence of Slovenia's commitment to aligning with international human rights standards and strengthening accountability mechanisms.

Concerns Over 2025 Public Safety Law

Despite these gains, experts raised questions about the "Emergency Measures to Ensure Public Safety Act", introduced in 2025 following a violent incident involving a suspect from the Roma community.

The law expands police powers in designated "security risk areas" and allows for the withdrawal of certain social benefits from individuals convicted of misdemeanours.

Committee members expressed concern about the potential for disproportionate impact on vulnerable communities, particularly the Roma, and asked whether the Government had assessed any unintended discriminatory consequences.

In response, Slovenia's delegation maintained that the law applies uniformly to all individuals and incorporates safeguards such as proportionality, with measures limited to areas facing heightened security risks.

Stark Inequalities Facing Roma Communities

A central focus of the review was the situation of Roma communities, where experts pointed to stark and persistent disparities.

Data cited during the session revealed:

• Life expectancy among Roma is 22 years lower than the national average

• Infant mortality rates are four times higher

• Continued lack of access in some communities to safe drinking water, electricity, and essential services

These figures underscore deep-rooted socio-economic exclusion and highlight the need for sustained, targeted interventions.

Government Outlines Inclusion Efforts

Slovenia's delegation reaffirmed that improving the situation of Roma communities remains a national priority, pointing to the National Programme of Measures for Roma 2021–2030, which adopts a comprehensive, multi-sectoral approach.

Key initiatives include:

• Expanding education access, including preschool inclusion and placement of "Roma assistants" in schools

• Promoting labour market integration through 14 social activation projects launched since 2024

• Delivering health workshops and training in Roma communities

• Advancing measures in housing, social inclusion, and anti-discrimination

Officials also highlighted broader efforts since 2019 to strengthen human rights institutions, protect minority cultural rights, and combat hate speech.

Constructive Dialogue, Ongoing Challenges

Committee Rapporteur Michal Balcerzak acknowledged Slovenia's "impressive progress" in legal protections over the past decade but emphasised that significant challenges remain.

The dialogue underscored the gap between legal frameworks and lived realities, particularly for marginalised groups.

Slovenian officials, in turn, reiterated their commitment to addressing these issues, stating that the country would not "shy away" from unresolved challenges and remains fully dedicated to implementing the Convention.

Next Steps

The Committee is expected to issue its formal concluding observations following the end of its current session on 1 May, which will provide detailed recommendations for Slovenia's future actions.

The review serves as a critical checkpoint in Slovenia's human rights journey, highlighting both its progress and the urgent need to address systemic inequalities—especially those affecting Roma communities.