Ministry with a new app: travel notification and faster emergency response

The Slovenian Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs has launched a new mobile application called **eLastovka**, designed to enhance the safety and efficiency of travel for Slovenian citizens abroad. This initiative aims to provide users with real-time information about potential risks in foreign countries, contact details of embassies and consulates, and emergency numbers, all within one accessible platform. The app was introduced as part of a broader effort to improve crisis response capabilities and ensure that Slovenians can travel with greater confidence and less concern.

At the heart of the application is its interactive map feature, which color-codes each country based on the level of risk associated with traveling there. For instance, Croatia is marked in green, indicating low risk, while Russia is highlighted in red, signaling high caution, and Ukraine is shown in black, advising against travel altogether. Users can click on any country to view detailed information about the appropriate embassy or consulate, along with local emergency contact numbers such as police and medical services. These maps are sourced directly from the ministry’s existing **Travel Safety** portal, ensuring consistency and reliability in the data presented.

The app also includes a section dedicated to embassy and consulate listings, allowing users to search for diplomatic missions worldwide. Each entry provides contact information and links to official websites, making it easier for travelers to reach out for assistance when needed. Additionally, the **SOS** tab displays critical phone numbers for emergencies, including local police and emergency medical services, offering immediate access to help in unforeseen situations.

While the SMS notification system—whereby travelers receive embassy contact details upon entering another country—remains in place, the ministry is considering integrating this functionality into the app in the future. This would allow users to have all necessary information consolidated in one location rather than relying solely on traditional SMS alerts.

One of the most significant features of eLastovka is its ability to register travel plans. By voluntarily registering their trips, users enable the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs to notify them more efficiently during crises or emergencies. This registration process is intended to streamline communication between the government and citizens abroad, ensuring timely updates and support when needed. The system allows users to log their journeys through multiple methods, including via the **SI-PASS** digital identity platform, SMS authentication, or even through social media accounts such as Facebook or Google.

The development of eLastovka came in response to lessons learned during the **Covid-19 pandemic**, where the collection of traveler information proved inefficient. Officials noted that the lack of centralized systems made it difficult to track and assist citizens in times of crisis. To address these challenges, the ministry spent six months developing the app, drawing inspiration from similar platforms such as **zVem** and **eDavki**, which are already familiar to many Slovenian users. This approach aimed to create an intuitive interface that aligns with user expectations and habits.

The application is available on both web and mobile platforms, supporting major operating systems such as iOS, Android, and Huawei. This ensures broad accessibility, allowing users to choose the method that best suits their preferences and devices.

Officials emphasized that the primary goal of eLastovka is to reduce anxiety among travelers while simultaneously enhancing the capacity of the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs to respond effectively in times of crisis. According to **Jan Mulec**, head of the department responsible for responding to consular and crisis issues, the success of the app depends largely on user participation. He urged citizens to register their travel plans before departure, stating that this will significantly improve the speed and effectiveness of consular assistance should it become necessary.

The introduction of eLastovka marks a significant step forward in Slovenia's efforts to modernize its consular services and better serve its citizens abroad. With ongoing improvements planned, the app represents a proactive measure to ensure that Slovenians remain informed, prepared, and supported wherever they travel.