ON
← Back to feed
11 EU Member States would restrict the use of a veto, which allows a single country to block decisions taken by Brussels
Slovenia🏛️ PoliticsCenter10 hr. ago

11 EU Member States would restrict the use of a veto, which allows a single country to block decisions taken by Brussels

The article discusses a proposal by 11 EU member states, led by Germany, to limit the use of the veto power that allows a single country to block EU decisions. The proposal aims to replace the current consensus-based decision-making with qualified majority voting, which would require a supermajority rather than unanimous agreement. Slovenia has not joined this initiative but supports decision-making through consensus. The proposal is supported by Germany, Netherlands, Luxembourg, and France, who argue that consensus-driven decisions lack effectiveness and legitimacy in today’s geopolitical climate. The article also mentions Slovenia’s recent action in blocking an EU statement criticizing Israeli settlement expansion on the West Bank, highlighting concerns over double standards and inconsistent foreign policy. It notes that some countries, like Hungary under Orbán, have used their influence within the EU to secure national interests, such as energy concessions. The proposed changes aim to make EU decision-making more efficient while still allowing room for national considerations.

The Bled Strategic Forum (BSF), Slovenia’s premier foreign policy event, opened on 31 August and continued through 1 September 2026, drawing political leaders, policymakers, business representatives, and experts to the lakeside resort of Bled. Under the theme “The Power to Shape the Future,” the 21st edition of the forum focused on navigating a period of deep geopolitical uncertainty, with security, competitiveness, and the economy at the forefront. Central to the discussions were the completion of the EU’s enlargement process and the role of Central Europe in shaping the future of the bloc. BSF Secretary-General Peter Grk emphasized the strategic importance of these issues, noting that Slovenia, as a country actively engaged in EU expansion, hoped to find solutions for accelerating the process. The forum featured speeches and discussions led by Slovenian Foreign Minister Tone Kajzer and Prime Minister Janez Janša, who addressed the need for Europe to adapt to contemporary challenges. Janša outlined four critical tests for Europe’s ability to shape the world: security, resilience, demographic vitality, and credibility. He argued that Europe must learn from its historical experiences, particularly the consequences of relying on cheap Russian energy, which created dependencies that could be exploited. He also called for addressing Europe’s aging population and declining birth rates, emphasizing that demography is not just a numerical issue but a reflection of societal confidence and opportunity. On the first day, the forum included a session titled “Shaping Europe from Its Centre,” featuring discussions between Janša, Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš, Hungarian Prime Minister Peter Magyar, and Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković. Magyar highlighted the need for the EU to decide whether it wants merely to survive or to win, suggesting that the current lack of a winning mentality in Brussels necessitates action from Central Europe. Babiš and Plenković echoed this sentiment, stating that the presence of four Central European prime ministers at the forum underscored the region’s growing influence within the EU. Slovenian President Nataša Pirc Musar held bilateral talks with Slovak President Peter Pellegrini and presented the BSF prize to Ukrainian human rights activist and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Oleksandra Matviichuk. Other sessions examined how Southeast and Central European countries are responding to geopolitical uncertainty, with participation from Kajzer and his counterparts from Croatia, North Macedonia, and Hungary, along with European Commissioner for the Mediterranean Dubravka Šuica. Discussions on EU-Latin American relations included a virtual appearance by Venezuelan opposition leader and 2025 Nobel Peace Prize laureate Maria Corina Machado. The second day of the forum featured talks with former NATO Secretary General George Robertson, U.S. Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Allison Hooker, and Ukrainian Deputy Foreign Minister Yevhen Perebyinis. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, though not attending due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, was mentioned as a highly sought-after guest. Grk explained that Zelensky’s absence was due to the difficulty of traveling from Kyiv, which faces daily bombings. Russia, Arab countries, and Israeli politicians were not invited, despite a shift in Slovenia’s policy toward Israel following the Janša government’s formation. Three Israeli civil society and business representatives attended, and Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar was expected to visit Slovenia later in September when Israel opens its embassy in Ljubljana. Throughout the forum, speakers emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong transatlantic partnership, with Kajzer highlighting the need for the EU to take greater responsibility for its own defense and to deepen ties with Asian and Latin American partners. He noted that the EU’s future depends on its ability to collaborate with countries outside of Europe, particularly in regions that offer strategic advantages in technology and energy. The absence of top EU officials, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa, was attributed to the recent change in Slovenia’s government, which has shaped the forum’s focus and guest list. The forum also addressed broader global challenges, including migration, cybersecurity, and the impact of artificial intelligence on international relations. Participants acknowledged the fragmentation of the international community and the need for a renewed commitment to shared values and collective responsibility. The discussions reflected a consensus that Europe must remain vigilant against external threats while fostering internal unity and resilience. As the forum concluded, attendees emphasized the importance of continuing dialogues on these pressing issues, recognizing that the future of Europe will be shaped by its ability to adapt, innovate, and maintain strong partnerships both within and beyond the continent.

Go to the primary sources (1)

The official sources this coverage is built on. Read them directly to bypass framing.

8 reports

N1 Slovenija logoN1 SlovenijaIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 852 days ago
Kaiser speaking to the top US official at the Bled Strategic Forum

Slovenian Foreign Minister Tone Kajzer met with U.S. Undersecretary for Political Affairs Allison Hooker ahead of the Bled Strategic Forum (BSF). The meeting aimed to strengthen bilateral cooperation and strategic partnership between Slovenia and the United States. Kajzer emphasized the importance of their alliance based on shared values, mutual trust, and transatlantic collaboration. They discussed current foreign policy and security challenges. The U.S. Embassy in Slovenia noted the discussions focused on defense commitments, energy security, economic resilience, and ways to further strengthen the U.S.-Slovenia partnership. The BSF brings together leaders, policymakers, innovators, business representatives, experts, and youth from around the world to discuss current global and regional issues. This year’s focus includes the future of the European Union, particularly in terms of security and competitiveness, with special attention on completing the EU enlargement process.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced account of diplomatic meetings and discussions between Slovenian and American officials. It quotes both the Slovenian Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs and the U.S. Embassy in Slovenia, providing perspectives from both sides without overtly favoring one overthe

Why factuality (90): The article accurately reports the meeting between Minister Kajzer and US Undersecretary Allison Hooker at the Bled Strategic Forum. It includes details about the purpose of the meeting and the topics discussed, which align with other reports.

Why objectivity (85): The article maintains a professional and neutral tone throughout. It presents the meeting and its significance objectively without apparent bias or editorializing. The language is factual and avoids emotional or subjective language.

The Slovenia Times logoThe Slovenia TimesIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 855 days ago
Bled Strategic Forum to focus on Europe's future amid geopolitical uncertainty

The Bled Strategic Forum (BSF), Slovenia's major foreign policy event, will take place from 31 August to 1 September, focusing on the future of Europe amidst geopolitical uncertainty. The forum, themed 'The Power to Shape the Future,' will address security, competitiveness, and economic challenges, with a specific emphasis on completing the EU's enlargement process. Key participants include leaders from Central European countries such as Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, and Czechia. Notably, none of the EU's top institutional leaders, including President Ursula von der Leyen and Council President Antonio Costa, have been invited, reflecting Slovenia's recent government shift. Discussions will cover EU enlargement, relations with Latin America, and responses to geopolitical instability, with notable speakers like Ukrainian activist Oleksandra Matviichuk and Venezuelan opposition figure Maria Corina Machado.

Bias read (Center): While the article discusses politically sensitive topics such as EU enlargement and geopolitical tensions, the framing remains balanced. It presents multiple perspectives without overtly favoring any political ideology. The absence of strong ideological language or selective emphasis on certain st立点

Why factuality (90): The article provides detailed information about the Bled Strategic Forum, including its date, theme, participants, and agenda. It cites statements from the BSF Secretary-General and mentions specific attendees and topics. These details are consistent with public records and official announcements, m

Why objectivity (85): The article presents information in a neutral tone, focusing on facts and quotes from officials without introducing personal opinions or emotional language. It reports on the forum's structure and goals objectively, maintaining a balanced perspective throughout.

RTV Slovenija (MMC) logoRTV Slovenija (MMC)State / PublicCenterFactual 90Objective 80yesterday
Kaiser: Foreign policy focuses on the frameworks in which Slovenia has influence

At the recent Bled Strategic Forum (BSF), Slovenia's Minister for Foreign and European Affairs, Tone Kajzer, expressed satisfaction with the event, calling it a proud brand for Slovenia. The forum focused on current geopolitical issues, particularly security, which Kajzer emphasized as essential for stability and prosperity. He highlighted that Slovenia's foreign policy focuses on frameworks where it can exert influence rather than retreating. Discussions included Central Europe, Africa, multilateralism, technology, and the transatlantic dimension, including cooperation with the United States. Kajzer noted that Slovenia will continue supporting EU expansion through concrete actions and models used during its own accession to the EU. He also mentioned bilateral meetings with Western Balkan foreign ministers and clarified that he regularly communicates with the EU Commissioner for Enlargement, Marta Kovač.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced overview of the minister's comments at the Bled Strategic Forum, highlighting his emphasis on Slovenia's strategic focus areas without overtly favoring any particular political stance. It includes direct quotes from Kajzer and mentions various topics discussed at the

Why factuality (90): The article accurately reports Minister Kajzer's statements about the Bled Strategic Forum and Slovenia's foreign policy focus areas. It presents factual information about the forum's themes and Kajzer's role without embellishment. The content matches other reports about the event.

Why objectivity (80): The article maintains a professional and neutral tone throughout. It presents Kajzer's statements objectively without apparent bias or editorializing. The language remains factual and avoids emotional or subjective language.

RTV Slovenija (MMC) logoRTV Slovenija (MMC)State / PublicCenterFactual 85Objective 70yesterday
11 EU Member States would restrict the use of a veto, which allows a single country to block decisions taken by Brussels

The article discusses a proposal by 11 EU member states, led by Germany, to limit the use of the veto power that allows a single country to block EU decisions. The proposal aims to replace the current consensus-based decision-making with qualified majority voting, which would require a supermajority rather than unanimous agreement. Slovenia has not joined this initiative but supports decision-making through consensus. The proposal is supported by Germany, Netherlands, Luxembourg, and France, who argue that consensus-driven decisions lack effectiveness and legitimacy in today’s geopolitical climate. The article also mentions Slovenia’s recent action in blocking an EU statement criticizing Israeli settlement expansion on the West Bank, highlighting concerns over double standards and inconsistent foreign policy. It notes that some countries, like Hungary under Orbán, have used their influence within the EU to secure national interests, such as energy concessions. The proposed changes aim to make EU decision-making more efficient while still allowing room for national considerations.

Bias read (Center): While the article presents the proposal to reform EU decision-making as a significant political development, it does not overtly favor one side over another. It reports on both the push for change (supported by Germany and others) and Slovenia’s stance against it, as well as examples of how some EU-

Why factuality (85): The article reports on a proposed EU reform to limit the use of the veto power, citing a letter from Kaja Kallas to foreign ministers. It mentions Slovenia not joining the initiative but supporting consensus-based decision-making. While no primary source is available, the information aligns with bro

Why objectivity (70): The tone leans slightly towards highlighting the significance of the proposal and the role of Germany in pushing for change. There is some emphasis on the potential impact of the reform on smaller nations, which may reflect a particular perspective rather than presenting all viewpoints equally.

Večer logoVečerIndependent🔒CenterFactual 85Objective 703 days ago
Bled again at the center of diplomacy: who's coming and who hasn't been invited this year?

The 21st Bled Strategic Forum, taking place in Bled, Slovenia, will feature over 150 speakers discussing topics such as the future of the EU, security, competitiveness, and the role of Central Europe. Notable attendees include Hungarian Prime Minister Peter Magyar, Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš, and Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković. However, the highest-ranking representatives of the European Union will not attend this year. The article explores reasons behind the exclusion of top EU figures, the participation of Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Italy’s Giorgia Meloni, the impact of the Slovenian government’s shift on the forum’s program and speaker selection, and the significance of the forum as a tool of Slovenian foreign policy. It also examines the potential message conveyed by the absence of some key international partners.

Bias read (Center): While the article discusses high-level political engagement and diplomatic implications, it presents multiple perspectives including the absence of EU leaders, the involvement of various national leaders, and the influence of domestic political shifts. There is no clear ideological leaning in the ph

Why factuality (85): The article accurately reports on the absence of top EU officials at the Bled Strategic Forum and mentions the attendance of various world leaders. It provides analysis about the implications of this absence, which aligns with other reports.

Why objectivity (70): The article takes a clear analytical stance in discussing the absence of EU representatives and its potential implications. While it presents facts, it frames them within a particular interpretive lens that may influence perception. The tone is more analytical than strictly neutral.

The Slovenia Times logoThe Slovenia TimesIndependentCenterFactual 65Objective 552 days ago
Europe in a Changing World: Values, Interests and Partnerships

Slovenian Foreign Minister Tone Kajzer writes an opinion piece ahead of the Bled Strategic Forum, discussing the evolving geopolitical and economic landscape and its implications for Europe. He emphasizes the need for Europe to reassess its strategic position, enhance security and resilience, and foster stronger partnerships with the U.S. and emerging global powers. Kajzer highlights the importance of balancing core values with national interests in foreign policy. The forum brings together experts from Slovenia and abroad to address critical questions about shaping the future, determining power dynamics, and defining the role of Europe, the EU, and Slovenia in a changing world. He notes significant transformations in global, European, and Slovenian contexts, including shifts in economic power, increased emphasis on security, and the growing influence of non-state actors. Kajzer also discusses challenges like social fragmentation, declining trust in institutions, and the impact of technology on international relations.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced discussion of geopolitical and economic changes affecting Europe, emphasizing the need for adaptation and cooperation without overtly favoring any specific ideological stance. While it acknowledges challenges such as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the erosion of信任in

Why factuality (65): This article is primarily an opinion piece by Slovenia's foreign minister, discussing broader themes related to European strategy and global partnerships. It does not provide specific factual claims about the EU veto reform discussed in the previous article. As such, it lacks direct relevance to the

Why objectivity (55): The article presents a strongly opinionated view from the Slovenian foreign minister, focusing on his personal perspectives and the importance of balancing values with national interests. It lacks neutrality and appears to promote a particular ideological stance rather than offering balanced analysi

Mladina logoMladinaIndependentCenterFactual 60Objective 303 days ago
The US remains one of Slovenia's closest friends

On August 31, 2026, Slovenian Foreign Minister Tone Kajzer met with U.S. Deputy Secretary of State for Political Affairs Allison Hooker ahead of the Blagoevgrad Strategic Forum (BSF). The meeting aimed to strengthen bilateral cooperation and strategic partnership between Slovenia and the United States. Kajzer emphasized that the U.S. remains one of Slovenia's closest allies, a key ally, and a strategic partner based on shared values, mutual trust, and strong commitment to transatlantic cooperation. They also discussed current foreign policy and security challenges. The meeting was hosted by U.S. Ambassador to Slovenia Asel Roberts. On Tuesday, Hooker will participate in discussions at the BSF, which the U.S. Embassy highlighted as underscoring the importance of transatlantic alliance and the strength of the U.S.-Slovenia partnership.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced account of diplomatic meetings and statements emphasizing bilateral relations and shared values. There is no evident ideological framing, loaded language, or one-sided emphasis. It reports on standard diplomatic interactions and official statements without apparent sl

Why factuality (60): The article contains significant factual inaccuracies and lacks reliable sourcing. It makes unsubstantiated claims about Slovenia's alleged subservience to Israel and implies connections between Slovenian leaders and Israeli operations without evidence. These claims contradict other reports and lack

Why objectivity (30): The article is extremely biased and uses inflammatory, emotionally charged language. It presents a highly critical view of Slovenian leadership and Israel without providing balanced perspectives or factual support for its claims.

Nova24TV logoNova24TVParty-alignedConservative10 hr. ago
From activism to realism: the Slovenian foreign policy focus through the prism of the Bled Strategic Forum

The article discusses Slovenia's new foreign policy direction as outlined at this year's Bled Strategic Forum (BSF). The focus has shifted from activism to realism, emphasizing national, regional, and European interests rather than symbolic gestures. Prime Minister Janez Janša emphasized the need for Europe to embrace its diversity to achieve strength and geopolitical relevance, suggesting that the path forward lies in coordinated but independent development among EU members. The event highlighted four key challenges: security, resilience, demographics, and credibility. Notably, high-profile EU figures like Ursula von der Leyen and Kaja Kallas were absent, while Commissioner Marta Kósa attended. Foreign Minister Tone Kajzer spoke about moving toward a more realistic approach in foreign policy, focusing on practical diplomacy and shaping the future actively.

Bias read (Conservative): The article frames Slovenia’s shift in foreign policy as a move towards realism and sovereignty, aligning with nationalist and Eurosceptic rhetoric. It emphasizes national interests over supranational cooperation, highlights the absence of prominent EU leaders, and quotes Janša and Kajzer using phrā

How each side covered it

The same event, grouped by the political lean of the outlets covering it.

How each side covered it

Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and every other Supporter feature.

Become a Supporter

Covered around the world

The same event as reported in other countries.

Covered around the world

Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and every other Supporter feature.

Become a Supporter

Claims check

Key factual claims, and how many sources assert vs dispute each.

Claims check

Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and every other Supporter feature.

Become a Supporter

Keep the news honest.

ObjectiveNews is reader-funded and ad-free — we show you the bias instead of hiding it. Support independent journalism for €4/month.

Become a Supporter

Related stories