The European Commission calls on Slovenia to take additional measures to tackle corruption and protect journalists

The European Commission has called on Slovenia to take additional measures to combat corruption and protect journalists, according to its annual report on the rule of law in the country. Published on July 17, 2026, the report highlights two recommendations aimed at improving the legal framework surrounding both issues. The commission noted that while Slovenia has made some progress since the last report issued in July 2025, consistent results in investigations, prosecutions, and effective judicial actions against corruption, particularly at high levels, remain elusive. It urged the country to adopt further steps to address these challenges. The report outlines specific concerns regarding the protection of journalists. Despite some improvements since the previous assessment, the commission found that new regional legislation has yet to be implemented effectively in practice. As part of its recommendations, the European Commission advised Slovenia to expand the number of available whistleblowers to enhance journalist safety. This recommendation aligns with European standards, which emphasize the importance of secure reporting environments for media professionals. In addition to the call for improved whistleblower protections, the commission pointed out ongoing challenges related to the financial sustainability of public media. While efforts have been made to address the financial difficulties faced by the Slovenian Press Agency (STA), progress toward strengthening the financial position of RTV Slovenia has been limited. The report notes that reforms initiated through the proposed Law on the Slovenian Press Agency have yielded only partial results, leaving the long-term viability of public broadcasting institutions uncertain. The European Commission did not issue a new recommendation specifically targeting the financing of public media, but it expressed support for Slovenia’s continued work within the framework of the European Convention on Transfrontier Television and the broader European Media Freedom Act. These initiatives aim to ensure the independence and resilience of media organizations across the EU, particularly in the face of increasing political and economic pressures. On the judiciary front, the commission reiterated concerns over the duration of legal proceedings, especially in cases involving money laundering and corruption. Delays in resolving such matters continue to undermine public trust in the justice system and hinder the effectiveness of anti-corruption efforts. The report underscores the need for more efficient judicial processes to ensure timely outcomes and uphold the integrity of the legal system. The recommendations come amid broader discussions about the role of media in democratic societies and the mechanisms needed to safeguard journalistic freedom. In recent months, Slovenia has faced scrutiny over its handling of sensitive political and economic issues, with reports indicating that investigative journalism has encountered obstacles in certain areas. The European Commission's findings reflect a growing concern that without stronger institutional safeguards, the ability of journalists to perform their watchdog function could be compromised. As the government considers the commission’s recommendations, officials have acknowledged the need for further action but emphasized the complexity of implementing structural changes. The upcoming legislative session will likely see proposals aimed at addressing the identified gaps, including potential reforms to the legal framework governing whistleblowers and the financial structures supporting public media. Meanwhile, civil society groups and media unions have called for greater transparency and accountability in how these reforms are developed and enforced.