Equality Commissioner Reflects on a Decade of Challenging Discrimination in Slovenia

Slovenia's Commissioner for Equality is set to conclude his second term this autumn, leaving behind a legacy of challenging societal norms and advocating for those facing discrimination. Over his ten years in office, he has frequently stirred debate across the political spectrum with his opinions and recommendations.

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First, I would say that we are a society where, despite other commitments, a quarter of public space is still physically inaccessible to people with mobility and other impairments.

He asserts that his institution serves all vulnerable groups, giving equal consideration to all personal circumstances. "We are a society where, despite other commitments, a quarter of public space is still physically inaccessible to people with mobility and other impairments," he stated. He also pointed to regional disparities, noting that only fifteen percent of Roma children complete primary school in one region.

Despite these challenges, the commissioner highlighted significant strides made in Slovenia over the past decade. He cited the recognition of same-sex partnerships and families after thirty years, and increased inclusion for minorities, partly due to his office's efforts. "We can say that we are also a society that responds with considerable empathy in some segments, for example, regarding disability," he observed. He added that when alerted to injustices, society is willing to address discrimination against other groups as well.

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We are also a society that responds with considerable empathy in some segments, for example, regarding disability.

However, he stressed that the pursuit of equal rights, opportunities, and treatment is a continuous journey. "Like any other, our society has a chance for improvement," he concluded, underscoring that the process of achieving full equality is never truly finished.

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Like any other, our society has a chance for improvement.