918 signatures for the people's initiative: Keeping Fiesa public

A local initiative has gathered enough signatures to trigger a referendum on whether the public should decide the future of certain plots of land in Fiesa, a coastal area near Piran, Slovenia. As of July 24, 2026, supporters have collected 918 signatures, which represents approximately 6.1 percent of eligible voters, exceeding the required five percent threshold. This achievement marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing debate over the fate of these lands, which were previously part of a broader plan to sell seven parcels of property. The campaign was launched by representatives of the Civic Initiative Piran, along with legal advisor Davorin Petaros, who delivered the initial 921 signatures to the municipal office last Wednesday. These signatures were collected in support of a proposal to cancel the decision made by the town council to sell the land. The civic group argues that the parcels should instead be reserved for public use, emphasizing their historical and ecological significance. The initiative aims to leverage the constitutional mechanism known as a citizens' initiative, which allows residents to propose specific procedures through direct democracy. The land in question lies within the protected coastal zone of Fiesa, a site known for its natural beauty and recreational value. It has long been a gathering place for locals and tourists alike, offering both leisure and cultural importance. The proposed sale has sparked controversy among residents, many of whom believe the decision undermines community interests and environmental preservation. Supporters of the initiative claim that the current administration’s stance, that the land can be sold, is politically irresponsible, especially given the lack of a formal referendum process since 2017. In response, the municipality has defended its position, stating that the sale is necessary for financial reasons and that the land does not fall under protected status. Officials argue that the initiative is based on misinformation and that the funds generated could benefit public services. However, proponents of the referendum counter that the municipality has failed to engage meaningfully with the community and has ignored calls for transparency and democratic participation. The movement has gained momentum rapidly, with organizers reporting increased engagement from local residents and even some external supporters. The success of the signature collection phase has led to renewed discussions about the role of citizen-led initiatives in shaping local policy. Some experts suggest that this case could set a precedent for similar efforts in other municipalities, highlighting the growing influence of grassroots activism in Slovenian governance. As the referendum approaches, tensions remain high. While the municipal authorities have not yet announced plans to hold a vote, they have expressed willingness to continue dialogue with the initiative's leaders. Meanwhile, the civic group continues to seek additional support, aiming to ensure broad representation across all demographics of Piran’s population. The outcome of this dispute will likely shape not only the immediate future of Fiesa but also the broader landscape of participatory democracy in Slovenia.