11. listopada nećete moći glasati na biralištu?

On October 11, voters in Slovenia will decide on four referendums, one of which concerns the voting rights of citizens from third countries, those not part of the European Union, at local elections. Since 2002, foreign nationals with at least five years of permanent residence have been allowed to vote locally. However, in June this year, a parliamentary majority amended the law, removing the right for long-term residents from third countries, primarily those from former Yugoslavia, to participate in local elections. This change has sparked political and legal debates, including two requests for constitutional review and two referendum initiatives. The debate was led by campaign organizers for both sides of the issue. Supporters included Andrej Kosi (SDS), Aleksander Gungl (NSi), Elena Zavadlav Ušaj (Demokrati), Srečko Ocvirk (SLS), and Rok Šimenc (Fokus Marka Lotriča). Opponents were represented by Christian Moe (Amnesty International Slovenia), Filip Dobranič (Danes je nov dan), Jaša Jenull, Flurina Ametaj (Kulturno društvo Gmajna), Miha Kordiš (Mi, socialisti!), Jasmin Feratovič (Piratska stranka), Dušan Vučko (Prerod, Stranka Vladimirja Prebiliča), Miha Blažič (Zasuk), Darko Hribar (Stranka Nič od tega), Barbara Strajnar (Vesna), Katja Utroša (Zavod PLC), and Aigul Hakimova (Zavod za kulturno raznolikost Open). Kosi argued that the number of eligible voters from third countries had significantly increased, affecting election results and reducing the influence of Slovenian citizens. He claimed that voter turnout depends on participation. Gungl emphasized the importance of preserving national identity and culture, stating that while he does not oppose foreigners, there should be a distinction between temporary workers and those who choose to stay and build families. Ušaj suggested the law was passed to give more weight to Slovenian citizens, criticizing those who advocate for foreign voting rights without supporting similar rights for Slovenians abroad. Šimenc noted that no country has ratified conventions allowing third-country citizens to vote in over 20 years, questioning the need to continue such practices. Meanwhile, the National Election Commission (DVK) announced that the deadline for voters unable to cast ballots due to unforeseen circumstances, such as hospitalization or institutional care, has expired. Alternative voting methods remain available, including voting in another district, home voting for those unable to go to polling stations, and postal voting for those without a permanent address in Slovenia. These options require prior registration, with deadlines set for October 7. Early voting will take place from October 6 to 8.