Phasing in Maribor: With sprays over "phasers", with gasoline over dirt

On September 1, 2026, chaos erupted in the center of Maribor during the first day of school for new high school students. The incident, known locally as "fazeniranje", a practice rooted in the tradition of conscription in former Yugoslavia, has taken a violent turn with the use of markers, paint, and even gasoline against teenagers aged around 15. Students became victims of this ritual, which has increasingly escalated into physical abuse and humiliation. The event unfolded as students arrived at their schools, only to find themselves targeted by older individuals who engaged in acts of vandalism and assault. Moke, eggs, and colored markers were hurled at them, while some were subjected to more severe forms of harassment involving chemicals. According to reports, several students suffered skin irritation due to exposure to marker ink and chemical pencils. The National Institute for Public Health (NIJZ) warned that these substances can cause dermatitis and, in rare cases, have toxic properties such as genotoxicity, carcinogenic effects, and chronic toxicity. Some students spent considerable time trying to remove the markings from their skin using water, soap, cosmetic cleansers, and even harsh solvents like acetone and gasoline. The situation worsened when one of the exhibition areas was contaminated, and damage occurred to the façade of a building. Police had to intervene to manage the growing unrest. Additionally, one girl lost consciousness and required emergency medical assistance. Despite these incidents, the perpetrators continued their actions, showing no signs of stopping. Publicist Boris Vezjak, based in Maribor, condemned the practice, stating that it is not a harmless tradition or initiation rite but rather an act of humiliation and often involves overt physical violence against minors. He urged schools to stop turning a blind eye to such activities. Earlier this year, the Ministry of Education had already issued a warning that "fazeniranje" is not part of the educational curriculum. If schools still choose to allow it, they must ensure the safety and dignity of their students. Oversight of this issue falls under the Inspectorate of the Republic of Slovenia for Education. Policymakers emphasized that if any student is subjected to "fazeniranje" against their will, they should report it to the police. Authorities are currently gathering information regarding the recent turmoil in Maribor. The practice of "fazeniranje" has deep historical roots, originally associated with military conscription in the former Yugoslav states. Over time, it evolved into a form of hazing among young people, particularly in educational settings. However, its transformation into a violent act involving harmful substances and physical aggression has raised serious concerns about the well-being of students. Local authorities and health experts have expressed alarm over the potential long-term health impacts of exposure to the chemicals used in these rituals. The NIJZ highlighted the need for greater awareness and preventive measures to protect students from such dangers. Schools are being reminded of their responsibility to maintain a safe environment free from bullying and physical harm. As investigations continue, the focus remains on holding accountable those responsible for the violence and ensuring that similar incidents do not occur again. Parents, educators, and local officials are urging for stricter enforcement of existing regulations and increased vigilance to safeguard the rights and safety of all students.