In a significant legal challenge, a coalition of non-governmental organizations, including Amnesty International, has lodged an appeal with Slovenia’s Constitutional Court to overturn the controversial ‘Security Law,’ officially known as the Act on Urgent Measures to Ensure Public Security. Enacted in November 2025, this law allows the seizure of social assistance from individuals with at least three unpaid fines for minor offenses. Critics argue that the legislation targets Slovenia’s Roma community unfairly and violates fundamental rights.
The coalition, known as the Legal Network for the Protection of Democracy, argues that the law disproportionately impacts Roma populations, who already suffer from societal marginalization and poverty. Advocacy groups have expressed concerns over the lack of safeguards in the law to protect vulnerable individuals, especially because it allows the Tax Office to seize substantial amounts of assistance without limits. Amnesty International emphasized that such punitive measures are weaponized against a community already facing discrimination and exclusion, contravening their right to social security and a decent standard of living.
Historically, the Roma people have endured severe persecution across Europe. From their initial reception as skilled artisans to persecution, discrimination has been a persistent issue. During World War II, they were tragically targeted by the Nazis, resulting in immense suffering. Even today, Roma communities face numerous challenges, including inadequate living conditions and assaults. Despite these issues, Slovenian Prime Minister Robert Golob insists that the Act is preventive, aiming to tackle crime without targeting any specific ethnic group.
Slovenia’s legal obligations under various international treaties require the assurance of social security for all citizens without discrimination. According to the Roma Foundation for Europe, this legal fight represents a broader quest to uphold human rights standards both within Slovenia and across Europe. As put by Mensur Haliti, it challenges Europe to maintain its legal principles at home to set a credible example globally.
The Slovenian Constitutional Court has yet to schedule a hearing for this case. In the interim, Amnesty International has called for public action, urging individuals to petition the Prime Minister to reconsider the law. More detailed insights into the unfolding situation can be found in the JURIST article.
The legal and ethical dimensions of this case highlight ongoing tensions around social policy and minority rights in Europe, raising critical questions about the balance between security measures and human rights obligations.