SloveniaOwnership & classification
Founded: 1943
Ownership
Mladina is published by Mladina casopisno podjetje d.d., a privately held joint-stock publishing company. Its roots go back to a youth publication first issued in 1920 and re-established in January 1943, and in independent Slovenia it became a private weekly with no party or state owner; its editorial leadership (long associated with editor Grega Repovz) controls the title.
Funding
Financed by newsstand sales and subscriptions plus advertising; as a small independent weekly it has periodically been excluded from or reliant on Slovenia's media co-financing calls but is not party- or state-owned.
Affiliation & stance
Mladina is a left-leaning, liberal weekly with a strongly critical, anti-authoritarian editorial line (a prominent critic of Janez Jansa's SDS) but no formal party ownership or control. As a privately/commercially owned magazine free of party or state control, it is classified INDEPENDENT (left-leaning).
Editorial lean
- Our estimate
- Progressive
- Measured from coverage
- Lean Progressivebased on 176
78/100
Factual
67/100
Objective
189
Articles
187
reports
Factual: How accurately its articles report the facts, judged against primary sources and the cross-outlet consensus. Only articles that cite their sources are counted.
Objective: How neutral the writing is — whether reporting keeps the writer’s own preferences and opinions out of the article.
Recent coverage
The Austrian Agency and the Diary reveal Pirc Musar's travels to Russia
The article discusses the recent attention surrounding Viktorija Krivolucka, a longtime friend and bowling partner of Slovenian President Nataša Pirc Musar, following a traffic accident involving her on July 31. The Austrian news agency APA and the media group Dnevnik investigated Krivolucka's background using Russian official records. They discovered that her name appears alongside Roman Jeglič, a former deputy head of Slovenia’s first intelligence service (VIS), who was involved in one of the largest scandals during Slovenia’s independence. Krivolucka holds dual citizenship (Russian and Slovenian) and previously served as a functionary in the Krasnoyarsk sports bowling association. She was also convicted of causing a traffic accident resulting in the death of an Austrian motorcyclist. Before becoming president, Pirc Musar traveled to Russia at least seven times with Krivolucka, including shortly before the start of the war in Ukraine. Her office confirmed these trips but emphasized they were always as a tourist with family.
Vladimir Putin has revealed the outcome of the war against Ukraine
Russian President Vladimir Putin, speaking at a congress of the United Russia party a month before parliamentary elections, pledged that Moscow would win the war against Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of unity among Russian citizens. He highlighted the role of soldiers' courage and those working towards victory. Former President Dmitry Medvedev, also a leader of the party, expressed confidence in Russia's ability to occupy more territory, citing ongoing military successes. Medvedev described Ukraine as a 'phantom state' having lost 20% of its territory and most of its population, labeling those who fled Russia as traitors and suggesting they should not be allowed back into their homeland. The parliamentary elections are scheduled between September 18th and 20th, with authorities strengthening support to prevent the opposition party Yabloko from running. As a result, ten parties remain on the ballot that all support Russia's war in Ukraine.
TikTok is paying $400 million
TikTok has agreed to pay $400 million in settlement related to allegations that it violated U.S. federal laws protecting children's privacy. The lawsuit, filed by the Department of Justice and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), claims TikTok collected personal data from minors under 13 without parental consent. The app was used by over 170 million active users, many of whom were underage, and failed to adequately verify user ages or obtain necessary permissions. While the settlement amount is significant, the purpose of the funds remains unclear, with reports suggesting potential use for unrelated projects like renovating the White House ballroom. This follows growing international scrutiny of TikTok’s practices, including investigations by the European Union and the United Kingdom.
Farmers expect drought relief this year, state prepares measures
The article discusses the severe impact of this year's drought on Slovenian agriculture, with estimates suggesting significant yield losses across various crops such as wheat, corn, and potatoes. The Slovenian Farmers' Association (KGZS) is requesting financial assistance from the state for affected farmers. State Secretary Mojca Erjavec visited affected areas and confirmed that the government is preparing measures to alleviate the effects of high fertilizer and fuel costs. Slovenia has received €2.7 million from the EU for this purpose, with additional national funds expected. Over €15 million has already been allocated for previous drought relief, though details on the discrepancy between announced amounts and actual disbursements remain unclear. The KGZS is preparing proposals for new financial support, including measures similar to those used in 2022 during the Ukraine war. Long-term initiatives like irrigation are being considered, along with administrative simplifications. Experts warn that more investment in prevention will be necessary due to increasing climate-related challenges.
Jan Zobec: The referendum initiative to remove Stevanović is a subversion of the democratic process of electing the President of the National Assembly
The article discusses political maneuvering by the transitional leftist faction targeting Zoran Stevanović, the president of the National Council. They have demanded his resignation due to dissatisfaction with Prime Minister Janez Janša’s government. Various actions were taken, including submitting a constitutional complaint and attempting to remove him from office. A petition led by former politician Brejc, likely in collaboration with three opposition parties, has initiated a consultative referendum to question whether the National Council should dismiss Stevanović. Legal experts, including former Supreme Court Justice Jan Zobec, argue that these efforts lack direction and legitimacy. The petition was later found to include fake signatures, including those of Vladimir Putin and fabricated names. After the petition was withdrawn, an alternative petition was launched by influential internet figure Aleksandar Repić. Three opposition parties then proposed a consultative referendum, which would not have legal effect. Critics argue such measures undermine democratic processes and could lead to further erosion of democracy.
A word from Milena Zupančić: death was not an abstract subject for her
The article reflects on the life and legacy of Slovenian actress Milena Zupančič, who passed away in her 80s after a long illness. Known for her depth, authenticity, and emotional vulnerability, she was described as more than just a performer, she became almost a literary figure. Her death highlighted her deep imprint on collective memory through roles ranging from 'Mete' in 'Cvetja v jeseni' to numerous stage and film performances. The book 'Kot bi Luna padla na Zemljo' by Tadej Golob offers insight into her personal life, emphasizing her relationship with death, which she viewed as part of life rather than an abstract concept. She lived a rich life filled with personal experiences, relationships, and a passion for travel and humanitarian work, including her role as a UNICEF ambassador. Despite receiving many awards, she remained grounded and avoided being mythologized.
Mocking the fight against corruption
The article discusses a proposed law known as the 'Skok Law' (Law on Specialized Bodies for Handling Corruption Crimes and Organized Crime), which aims to establish specialized organs for dealing with corruption cases. The law has been criticized by academics in criminal law as a politically motivated attempt to undermine judicial independence, particularly the role of prosecutors who decide whom to prosecute and whether to send individuals to prison. Professors and researchers at the Faculty of Law at the University of Ljubljana and the Institute of Criminology argue that the law is unconstitutional, dangerous, and harmful. They call on lawmakers to reject the bill in its current form. The law is seen as part of a broader trend of political interference in judicial processes, with some critics comparing it to similar measures in other countries. The article highlights concerns over the erosion of judicial independence and the potential impact on human rights protections.
Steps to Peace
The article reports on the upcoming 'Peacewalk' international peace march starting in Ljubljana on August 25, 2026, as part of a larger journey beginning in Spain's Finisterre and planned to end in Jerusalem by summer 2027. The route passes through 24 countries, with multiple branches converging in Sarajevo in October. The organizers describe the event as more than just a physical journey, it is a school of peace, a traveling festival, and a charitable campaign aimed at transcending cultural, religious, and national differences. They emphasize that the walk is not a political project but rather a non-organized, accessible path open to anyone at any time. The diversity of participants is highlighted as a key feature. The march was also inspired by the genocide in Gaza, though organizers stress their intent is not solely protest but also to express hope and positive alternatives to conflict. The act of walking itself is presented as a deliberate choice to slow down, reflect, and step outside daily routines.
Patriotism and Mary
The article discusses the historical religious roots of Slovenia, focusing on the evolution of beliefs over time, including polytheism, Roman pantheon influences, and later Christianization. It references the legend of Črtomir and his acceptance of Christianity after being defeated by Valjhun, which symbolizes the broader conversion of the Slavic people. The piece also mentions Prime Minister Janez Janša, noting his early communist past and his recent emphasis on divine grace and Christian heritage, particularly highlighted during the Feast of the Assumption of Mary on August 15, where he sent a holiday message emphasizing spiritual and cultural inheritance.
Speaking by Heart
The article discusses the challenges facing Slovenian agriculture due to climate change, particularly droughts, and questions the sustainability of using large amounts of water for irrigation. It highlights concerns over subsidies allocated to livestock farming and the need for state support to make agriculture more resilient. The author criticizes the lack of awareness among the public regarding irrigation systems and points out that despite repeated calls by the Ministry of Agriculture to build irrigation systems, there is no clear plan for where the water would come from. The article also raises issues related to water management, including the impact of urban development on river ecosystems, excessive drainage practices in agriculture, and the negative effects on groundwater levels. These factors contribute to worsening drought conditions and threaten both agricultural productivity and environmental balance.
What about the Black Cube case?
The article discusses the ongoing police investigation into the 'Black Cube' case, which involves allegations of Israeli interference in Slovenian elections. The Israeli ambassador, Ruth Koen-Dar, has previously dismissed these claims as a conspiracy theory rooted in Slovenian anti-Semitism, stating that after five months of investigation, it appears to be a mirage. The police confirm that the investigation is proceeding intensively without any political influence, involving a working group composed of various law enforcement agencies, including the National Prosecution Office (NPU) and European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO). While the investigation remains in the phase of gathering information, there is speculation that the focus is on the act of filming rather than the content of the recordings, with several individuals identified as victims of alleged criminal acts. However, no suspects have been publicly named yet.
Maria, please help me!
The article discusses the declining birth rate in Slovenia and the concerns raised by Catholic Church figures like Archbishop Stanislav Zore during the feast of Mary Help of Christians. Zore criticizes the liberal approach to abortion, comparing it to other causes of death and emphasizing the sanctity of life. He highlights the importance of family values through a personal anecdote about a family with multiple children. The article also notes broader societal and political concerns about demographics, mentioning Prime Minister Janez Janša's emphasis on demographic challenges and his establishment of a ministry focused on demographics, family, and social issues. It underscores the growing political interest in addressing demographic decline, particularly among conservative parties.
Asbestos in the middle of Ljubljana
An article reports on a deteriorating asbestos-covered building located in central Ljubljana, near the famous Plečnik buildings. The structure, built in 1958 and owned by the Economic Exhibition Center (Gospodarsko razstavišče), is leased to Proevent, a company organizing events. The building poses health risks due to the hazardous nature of asbestos. The center, which is majority-owned by the City of Ljubljana, claims that renovation is neither possible nor sensible because a new warehouse is planned under the new Municipal Detailed Spatial Plan (OPPN). They argue that the existing building will be demolished once the new facility is constructed, replacing it with a park. The article notes that while environmental and spatial inspectors were contacted, it remains unclear whether they will take action against the unsafe conditions.