LJUBLJANA, Slovenia – The European country of Slovenia has joined Spain, Norway, and Ireland in officially recognizing a Palestinian state. Slovenia’s parliament recently voted in favor of this decision, with an overwhelming majority of 52 lawmakers in support and none opposing the recognition out of the 90-seat parliament. This move comes in the midst of ongoing conflict in the Middle East region.
Slovenia’s Foreign Minister, Tanja Fajon, expressed that the decision to recognize Palestine is a message of hope and peace for the people of Palestine. Fajon emphasized the importance of a two-state solution for lasting peace in the Middle East, indicating the country’s commitment to working towards the security of both Palestinians and Israelis.
The recognition of a Palestinian state by Slovenia follows similar actions by a handful of European Union nations in the past, with only a limited number of EU members previously formally acknowledging Palestine. Prime Minister Robert Golob highlighted the historical context of Slovenia’s independence and its significance in the decision to recognize Palestine. Golob stressed the importance of fulfilling the rights of the Palestinian people.
Despite the ruling coalition’s support for recognition, the main opposition party in Slovenia, the Slovenian Democratic Party, opposes the move. The right-wing party has called for a referendum on the issue, seeking to delay the decision. However, parliamentary proceedings have continued, with the opposition’s attempts to challenge the recognition ultimately rejected.
The decision to recognize a Palestinian state by Slovenia comes amid escalating tensions in the region, particularly in light of recent conflicts between Israel and Hamas. Slovenia initially began the recognition process earlier in the year but accelerated the timeline in response to escalating violence. The country’s leadership expressed concerns over the humanitarian impact of the violence on Palestinians.
With more than 140 countries now officially recognizing a Palestinian state, Slovenia’s decision adds to the growing international support for Palestinian statehood. The move underscores the complex geopolitical dynamics at play in the Middle East and Europe, as nations navigate diplomatic relations and peace efforts in the region.