International Symposium on the 35th Anniversary of Independence: What did we do right and where did we fall behind?

The International Symposium on the 35th Anniversary of Slovenia's Independence will take place on June 19, 2026, at 6 PM in the hall of the Museum of the Values of Slovenian Independence, located at Cankarjeva Street 11 in Ljubljana. Organized by the Institute of Dr. Jožef Pučnik in collaboration with the Konrad Adenauer Foundation, the Republic Club, and the Association for the Values of Slovenian Independence, the symposium aims to reflect on the country’s journey toward normalization after its emergence from a totalitarian regime. The event marks the 35 years since Slovenia achieved full sovereignty, independence, and self-determination.

The symposium will explore both the challenges and successes Slovenia has experienced during this period. While there have been setbacks, there have also been notable achievements. According to reports, Slovenia has made significant strides in international recognition, particularly from traditionally "hardline" nations, and has successfully integrated into Euro-Atlantic structures. It has led important international organizations and joined the European Union twice, demonstrating resilience and potential. These accomplishments highlight the strength and capacity of the Slovenian community, even as some argue that the nation has not fully utilized its developmental opportunities compared to other post-totalitarian states.

The discussion will focus on the political shifts over the past three decades, emphasizing how certain political forces, which were once seen as alternatives, have hindered democratic reforms. Some individuals still dream of a different Slovenia—one that would not be internationally engaged as it currently is—and one that would be based on values and principles that were dominant in previous non-democratic eras. As such, the struggle for a modern, pro-European Slovenia remains ongoing. The symposium will seek to address questions about missed opportunities and possible corrections, offering a platform for dialogue among distinguished guests.

This symposium follows the previous Pučnik Symposium held just before parliamentary elections, where discussions highlighted the missteps taken by the government in several aspects of its operations. The current administration under Prime Minister Janez Janša is said to bring fresh optimism and a new beginning. The symposium will also serve as a moment to consider the message being sent to younger generations and the future that all citizens are building together, rooted in the values of Slovenia’s independence as a cornerstone of democratic life today.

The program includes opening speeches by Dr. Andreja Valič Zver, director of the Institute of Dr. Jožef Pučnik, and Alojz Peterle, president of the Association for the Values of Slovenian Independence and former prime minister. A panel discussion will feature prominent speakers including Dr. Norbert Eschborn, historian and head of the Konrad Adenauer Foundation in Zagreb; Mag. Jurij Pavel Emeršič, historian and professor at Želimlje Gymnasium; Dr. Andrej Fink, lawyer and university professor; Dr. Janez Juhant, theologian, philosopher, and university professor; Prim. Janez Remškar, doctor and president of the Republic Club; and Dr. Matevž Tomšič, sociologist, university professor, and publicist. All sessions will be moderated by Dr. Andreja Valič Zver, historian, publicist, and director of the Institute of Dr. Jožef Pučnik. The evening will conclude with a reception and social gathering at 8 PM.

Participants are encouraged to support democracy and contribute to the diversity of the Slovenian media space by donating to the publication "Demokracija." The symposium represents a continuation of the discourse initiated by the previous event, aiming to inspire renewed hope and reflection on the path forward for Slovenia.