Slovenia is currently engaged in a significant political debate concerning its NATO membership. Prime Minister Robert Golob has proposed a non-binding, consultative referendum on whether the country should remain in the alliance.

The controversy began when Slovenia’s parliament approved a consultative referendum on increasing defense spending to 3% of GDP by 2030, aligning with NATO’s new target of 5% by 2035. This initiative, supported by the left-wing Levica party and the opposition, was opposed by Golob’s Freedom Movement party. In response, Golob suggested a separate referendum on NATO membership, framing it as a choice between fulfilling alliance obligations or leaving.

The proposal has caused divisions within the ruling coalition. While Levica advocates for leaving NATO, the Social Democrats support the defense spending referendum but not an exit from the alliance. The main opposition party, the Slovenian Democratic Party (SDS), is pro-NATO but backed the defense spending referendum, possibly to exploit tensions within the coalition.

Recent polls indicate that approximately 52% of Slovenians support NATO membership, a decline from 66% in 2003. The outcome of any referendum could be influenced by concerns over increased defense spending and its impact on social services.

Although the proposed referendum would be non-binding, a vote against NATO membership could have significant political repercussions and potentially destabilize Slovenia’s position within the alliance. Analysts suggest that the move may be a strategic effort by Golob to address internal political challenges ahead of the 2026 elections.

So, while Slovenia is not on the verge of exiting NATO, the proposed referendum reflects ongoing domestic debates over defense spending and the country’s role in international alliances.

CIVIL Media News Desk