GOVSI podkast

V novi epizodi GOVSI podkasta je voditelj Martin Nahtigal gostil ministrico za lokalno samoupravo, kohezijo in regionalni razvoj dr. Moniko Kirbiš Rojs. Pogovarjala sta se o pomenu močnih občin, ustanavljanju pokrajin, črpanju evropskih sredstev, razvojnih priložnostih in decentralizaciji državne uprave.

Ministrica je poudarila, da imajo občine pomembno vlogo pri zagotavljanju kakovostnega vsakdanjega življenja prebivalcev. Ob tem je opozorila na potrebo po ustanovitvi pokrajin, ki bi omogočile učinkovitejše odločanje na regionalni ravni, boljše povezovanje lokalnih skupnosti in uspešnejše sodelovanje pri evropskih projektih. Zakonodajna izhodišča so pripravljena, nadaljnji koraki pa so odvisni od političnega soglasja.

Pomemben del pogovora je bil namenjen evropskim kohezijskim sredstvom. Ministrica je predstavila prizadevanja za pospešitev njihovega črpanja, načrtovana sredstva za prihodnji dve leti in izzive, ki jih prinašajo pogajanja o naslednjem večletnem finančnem okviru Evropske unije. Pojasnila je tudi, kako poteka priprava in financiranje projektov, ki se izvajajo s podporo evropskih sredstev.

Spregovorila sta še o predlaganih ukrepih razvojnega zakona, s katerimi želi vlada razbremeniti prebivalce in gospodarstvo ter spodbuditi razvoj v vseh delih države.

Ministrica je predstavila tudi izkušnje s selitvijo dela ministrstva v Maribor. Po njenih besedah je približevanje državnih institucij prebivalcem pomemben korak k bolj uravnoteženemu regionalnemu razvoju.

Novo epizodo GOVSI podkasta si lahko ogledate na kanalu YouTube in ji prisluhnete na priljubljenih platformah za podkaste.

[ENGLISH VERSION]
Minister Monika Kirbiš Rojs discusses regional development, municipalities and EU funding on the GOVSI Podcast

In the latest episode of the GOVSI Podcast, host Martin Nahtigal welcomes Dr Monika Kirbiš Rojs, Minister responsible for Local Self-Government, Cohesion and Regional Development. Their discussion focuses on the importance of strong municipalities, the establishment of regions, the use of EU funding, development opportunities and the decentralisation of public administration.

The Minister highlights the important role municipalities play in ensuring people's quality of life. She also emphasises the need to establish regions to enable more effective decision-making at regional level, strengthen cooperation between local communities and facilitate participation in European projects. The legislative groundwork has been prepared, while further steps depend on reaching political consensus.

A significant part of the discussion focuses on EU cohesion funding. The Minister outlines efforts to accelerate the absorption of available funds, planned funding for the next two years and the challenges posed by negotiations on the European Union's next multiannual financial framework. She also explains how projects supported by EU funding are developed and financed.

The conversation also addresses the proposed measures under the Development Act, which the Government aims to use to reduce the burden on citizens and businesses and encourage development across Slovenia.

The Minister also shares her experience of relocating part of the Ministry to Maribor. She explains how bringing government institutions closer to citizens can contribute to more balanced regional development.

Watch the latest episode of the GOVSI Podcast on YouTube or listen on your favourite podcast platform.

V novi epizodi GOVSI podkasta je minister za gospodarstvo, delo in šport dr. Anže Logar spregovoril o ukrepih razvojnega zakona, konkurenčnosti slovenskega gospodarstva ter ustvarjanju ugodnejšega okolja za podjetja, zaposlene in vlagatelje. Z voditeljem Martinom Nahtigalom sta se dotaknila tudi prihodnosti dela, podjetništva mladih in priložnosti Slovenije na mednarodnih trgih.

Osrednja tema pogovora je bil zakon o interventnih ukrepih za razvoj Slovenije, tako imenovani razvojni zakon, ki med drugim predvideva uvedbo razvojne kapice, spremembe obdavčitve normiranih samostojnih podjetnikov, nižji DDV na osnovna živila in možnost nižje obdavčitve energentov. Minister je predstavil tudi predvideno možnost prejemanja polne starostne pokojnine ob nadaljnjem delu ter spremembe obdavčitve oddajanja nepremičnin.

Posebno pozornost sta namenila razvojni kapici, s katero želi vlada omejiti višino socialnih prispevkov in spodbuditi ustvarjanje delovnih mest z višjo dodano vrednostjo. Po ministrovih besedah je za dolgoročni razvoj Slovenije pomembno, da podjetja vlagajo v znanje, inovacije in zaposlene, gospodarsko okolje pa ostaja stabilno in predvidljivo.

Minister je predstavil tudi prizadevanja za zmanjšanje administrativnih bremen. Med predvidenimi spremembami je ureditev, po kateri državljanom ne bi bilo treba več predlagati podatkov, ki jih državni organi lahko sami pridobijo iz uradnih evidenc. Pomembno vlogo pri poenostavitvi postopkov vidi tudi v digitalizaciji in uporabi umetne inteligence.

V pogovoru sta se dotaknila podjetništva mladih in predvidene uvedbe študentskega samostojnega podjetništva, ki bi mladim omogočilo dodatno pot do razvoja poslovnih idej. Minister je poudaril, da je pri tem treba preprečiti morebitne zlorabe in ohraniti ustrezno zaščito mladih na trgu dela.

Beseda je tekla tudi o zaposlovanju tujih delavcev, privabljanju visoko usposobljenih strokovnjakov in pomenu tujih neposrednih naložb. Minister meni, da ima Slovenija številne razvojne prednosti, med drugim visoko izobraženo delovno silo, kakovostne proizvode in sposobnost hitrega prilagajanja. Med panogami z največjim razvojnim potencialom je izpostavil farmacijo in biofarmacijo, logistiko ter informacijsko-komunikacijske tehnologije.

Po ministrovih besedah je dolgoročni cilj oblikovati Slovenijo kot konkurenčno razvojno središče srednje Evrope, ki bo privlačno za domače in tuje vlagatelje ter bo ustvarjalo kakovostna in dobro plačana delovna mesta.

Celotnemu pogovoru lahko prisluhnete v GOVSI podkastu, ki je na voljo na kanalu YouTube in priljubljenih podkastnih platformah.

[ENGLISH VERSION]
Minister Anže Logar discusses Slovenia's Development Act and economic future on the GOVSI Podcast

In the latest episode of the GOVSI Podcast, Minister of the Economy, Labour and Sport Dr Anže Logar discusses the measures set out in Slovenia's Development Act, the competitiveness of the Slovenian economy and efforts to create a more favourable business and investment environment. Speaking with host Martin Nahtigal, he also addresses the future of work, youth entrepreneurship and Slovenia's opportunities in international markets.

The discussion focuses on the Act on Emergency Measures for Slovenia's Development, commonly referred to as the Development Act. Its proposed measures include a cap on social security contributions, changes to the taxation of sole proprietors using the flat-rate expense system, lower VAT on basic food products and the possibility of reducing VAT on energy products. The Minister also outlines provisions allowing pensioners to continue working while receiving their full old-age pension, as well as changes to the taxation of rental income.

A key topic is the proposed cap on social security contributions, which is intended to encourage higher-value-added economic activity and improve Slovenia's ability to attract and retain highly skilled professionals. According to the Minister, long-term economic development depends on investment in knowledge, innovation and employees, alongside a stable and predictable business environment.

The discussion also covers efforts to reduce administrative burdens. One of the proposed changes would remove the obligation for citizens to submit information that public authorities can obtain directly from official registers. The Minister highlights digitalisation and artificial intelligence as important tools for simplifying administrative procedures.

Another topic is youth entrepreneurship, including a separate proposal to introduce a form of student self-employment that would allow young people to develop their own business ideas. The Minister also stresses the importance of safeguards against potential misuse of such arrangements.

The conversation addresses foreign employment, attracting highly qualified professionals and increasing foreign direct investment. The Minister identifies Slovenia's skilled workforce, high-quality products and adaptability as important competitive advantages.

Looking ahead, he highlights pharmaceuticals and biopharmaceuticals, logistics, and information and communication technologies as sectors with considerable growth potential.

According to the Minister, Slovenia's long-term ambition is to strengthen its position as a competitive development hub in Central Europe, attract domestic and international investment, and create high-quality, well-paid jobs.

The full conversation is available on the GOVSI Podcast via YouTube and major podcast platforms.

Gost tokratne epizode GOVSI podkasta je bil minister za zunanje in evropske zadeve Tone Kajzer, ki je v pogovoru z voditeljem Martinom Nahtigalom predstavil ključne usmeritve slovenske zunanje politike. Spregovoril je o pomenu gospodarske diplomacije, odpiranju novih trgov za slovenska podjetja, podpori Ukrajini, odnosih s sosednjimi državami in varnosti slovenskih državljanov v tujini.

Minister je poudaril, da je gospodarska diplomacija pomembno orodje za krepitev konkurenčnosti slovenskega gospodarstva. Slovenija velik del izdelkov in storitev izvozi, zato sta dostop do tujih trgov in iskanje novih poslovnih priložnosti ključna za njen gospodarski razvoj. Pri tem imajo pomembno vlogo diplomatsko-konzularna predstavništva in ekonomski svetovalci, ki podjetjem pomagajo pri vzpostavljanju stikov in premagovanju ovir pri poslovanju v tujini.

»Diplomacijo moramo videti kot investicijo, ne kot strošek, saj prinaša dodano vrednost nazaj v Slovenijo,« je poudaril minister. Med perspektivnimi območji je izpostavil Indijo, afriške države in Srednjo Evropo, kjer vidi možnosti za tesnejše gospodarsko povezovanje in večjo prisotnost slovenskih podjetij.

Beseda je tekla tudi o pomenu stabilnega in konkurenčnega poslovnega okolja. Minister je opozoril, da uspešnost gospodarske diplomacije ni odvisna le od odpiranja vrat na tujih trgih, temveč tudi od pogojev za vlaganja v Sloveniji. V tem okviru se je dotaknil razvojnega zakona in pomena predvidljivega davčnega ter pravnega okolja za privabljanje tujih investicij.

Pomemben del pogovora je bil namenjen vojni v Ukrajini in njenim posledicam za evropsko varnost. Minister je poudaril, da Slovenija podpira prizadevanja za trajen in pravičen mir, ki bo temeljil na spoštovanju mednarodnega prava in zagotavljanju varnostnih jamstev Ukrajini. Izpostavil je tudi slovensko humanitarno in razvojno pomoč, vključno s sodelovanjem pri projektih civilnih zaklonišč in podporo najbolj ranljivim skupinam prebivalstva.

V pogovoru sta se dotaknila tudi odnosov s sosednjimi državami. Minister je poudaril pomen dialoga, medsebojnega zaupanja in tesnejšega srednjeevropskega sodelovanja, zlasti na področjih infrastrukturne povezljivosti, energetske varnosti in krepitve položaja slovenskih skupnosti v sosednjih državah.

Celotnemu pogovoru lahko prisluhnete v novi epizodi GOVSI podkasta, ki je na voljo na našem kanalu YouTube in podkastnih platformah.

[ENGLISH VERSION]
Minister Tone Kajzer discusses economic diplomacy, security and Slovenia's role in the world in the GOVSI podcast

The latest episode of the GOVSI podcast featured Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Tone Kajzer, who joined host Martin Nahtigal to discuss the key priorities of Slovenia's foreign policy. The conversation focused on economic diplomacy, opening up new markets for Slovenian companies, support for Ukraine, relations with neighbouring countries and the safety of Slovenian citizens abroad.

The Minister emphasised that economic diplomacy is an important tool for strengthening the competitiveness of Slovenia's economy. Slovenia exports a large share of the goods and services it produces, making access to foreign markets and the identification of new business opportunities essential to its economic development. Diplomatic and consular missions, together with economic advisers, play an important role in helping companies establish contacts and overcome barriers to doing business abroad.

"We must see diplomacy as an investment, not a cost, because it generates added value for Slovenia," the Minister stressed. He identified India, African countries and Central Europe as promising markets, highlighting opportunities for closer economic cooperation and a stronger presence of Slovenian companies.

The discussion also addressed the importance of a stable and competitive business environment. The Minister pointed out that successful economic diplomacy depends not only on opening doors in foreign markets but also on providing favourable investment conditions in Slovenia. In this context, he discussed the Development Act and the importance of a predictable tax and legal framework for attracting foreign investment.

A significant part of the conversation focused on the war in Ukraine and its implications for European security. The Minister reiterated Slovenia's support for efforts to achieve a lasting and just peace based on respect for international law and security guarantees for Ukraine. He also highlighted Slovenia's humanitarian and development assistance, including its participation in projects to build civilian shelters and provide support to the most vulnerable groups.

The conversation also covered relations with neighbouring countries. The Minister emphasised the importance of dialogue, mutual trust and closer cooperation within Central Europe, particularly in infrastructure connectivity, energy security and strengthening the position of Slovenian communities in neighbouring countries.

The full conversation is available in the latest episode of the GOVSI podcast on our YouTube channel and podcast platforms.

Ob 35. obletnici slovenske samostojnosti je bil gost GOVSI podkasta Lojze Peterle, prvi predsednik vlade samostojne Slovenije. V pogovoru se je spomnil ključnih trenutkov slovenske osamosvojitve, prizadevanj za mednarodno priznanje ter razmišljal o pomenu vrednot, ki so povezale Slovenke in Slovence ob nastanku države.

Peterle je poudaril, da uspeh osamosvojitve ni bil samoumeven. Po njegovih besedah je bila odločilna pripravljenost takratnega političnega vodstva, da uresniči odločitev ljudi, izraženo na plebiscitu, ter da se država pripravi tudi na možnost vojaškega napada.

Spregovoril je tudi o prizadevanjih za mednarodno priznanje Slovenije in vlogi tedanjega nemškega kanclerja Helmuta Kohla. Peterle ga je označil za enega ključnih akterjev pri uveljavljanju Slovenije v mednarodni skupnosti. Slovenija se je po priznanju vključila v Združene narode, Evropsko unijo, NATO in druge mednarodne povezave.

Pomemben del pogovora je bil namenjen tudi današnji Sloveniji. Peterle je poudaril pomen dialoga, sodelovanja in skupnega temelja, ki bi lahko znova povezoval družbo.

»Dan državnosti je naš skupni praznik,« je dejal ob koncu pogovora in pozval k več dialoga, razumevanja ter pripravljenosti za skupno delovanje.

Celoten pogovor si lahko ogledate na YouTube kanalu Vlade Republike Slovenije oziroma ga poslušate v aplikacijah za podkaste.

[ENGLISH VERSION]
Lojze Peterle on the GOVSI Podcast: Independence is our shared celebration

To mark the 35th anniversary of Slovenia’s independence, the GOVSI Podcast welcomed Lojze Peterle, the first Prime Minister of independent Slovenia. He reflected on key moments in Slovenia’s path to independence, the efforts to secure international recognition and the values that brought Slovenians together when the country was established.

Peterle stressed that Slovenia’s successful independence was not something that could be taken for granted. In his view, a decisive factor was the determination of the political leadership at the time to carry out the will expressed by the people in the independence referendum and to prepare the country for the possibility of a military attack.

He also spoke about efforts to secure Slovenia’s international recognition and the role played by then German Chancellor Helmut Kohl, whom Peterle described as one of the key figures in Slovenia’s international recognition. Following recognition, Slovenia went on to join the United Nations, the European Union, NATO and other international organisations.

The conversation also turned to present-day Slovenia. Peterle emphasised the importance of dialogue, cooperation and finding common ground that can bring society together.

“Statehood Day is our shared celebration,” he said at the end of the conversation, calling for more dialogue, mutual understanding and willingness to work together.

The full conversation is available on the YouTube channel of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia and on podcast platforms.

Gost nove epizode GOVSI podkasta je predsednik Obrtno-podjetniške zbornice Slovenije Blaž Cvar. Z voditeljem Martinom Nahtigalom govori o izzivih malega gospodarstva, pomenu razvojnega zakona in prihodnosti obrtniških poklicev.

Cvar opozarja, da obrtnike in podjetnike obremenjujejo naraščajoči stroški dela, energije in materiala ter administrativne obveznosti, ki jim jemljejo čas za njihovo osnovno dejavnost. Po njegovih besedah malo gospodarstvo potrebuje preprostejše poslovno okolje ter pregleden in pravičen davčni sistem.

V pogovoru pojasnjuje podporo zbornice razvojnemu zakonu. Med rešitvami izpostavlja razvojno kapico, prejemanje polne pokojnine ob nadaljevanju dela, spremembe pri normirancih, omejitev regresnih zahtevkov zaradi nesreč pri delu in znižanje DDV za osnovna živila. Zakon vidi kot prvi korak k razbremenitvi gospodarstva in večji konkurenčnosti. Posebej poudarja pomen pogojev, ki bi mlade strokovnjake in podjetja spodbudili, da ostanejo v Sloveniji.

Pogovor sklene z optimističnim pogledom na obrtniške poklice. Opaža, da ti znova pridobivajo ugled in zanimanje mladih, saj ponujajo možnosti za dobro zaposlitev in samostojno podjetniško pot. »Slovenija je družba obrtnikov,« poudarja Cvar.

Vabljeni k ogledu in poslušanju nove epizode GOVSI podkasta.

[ENGLISH VERSION]

Blaž Cvar on the GOVSI podcast: Slovenia is a nation of craftsmen

The latest episode of the GOVSI podcast features Blaž Cvar, President of the Chamber of Craft and Small Business of Slovenia. In conversation with host Martin Nahtigal, he discusses the challenges facing small businesses, the importance of the development bill and the future of skilled trades.

Cvar highlights the pressures that rising labour, energy and material costs place on craftsmen and entrepreneurs, alongside administrative requirements that take time away from their core activities. In his view, small businesses need a simpler business environment and a transparent, fair tax system.

He explains the Chamber’s support for the development bill, highlighting measures including a cap on social security contributions, payment of full pensions while continuing to work, changes to the flat-rate expenses tax scheme, limits on reimbursement claims following workplace accidents, and lower VAT on basic foodstuffs. He sees the bill as a first step towards easing the burden on businesses and improving competitiveness. He also stresses the importance of creating conditions that encourage young professionals and companies to remain in Slovenia.

The conversation closes with an optimistic outlook for skilled trades. Cvar notes that these professions are regaining recognition and attracting young people, offering opportunities for rewarding employment and self-employment. “Slovenia is a nation of craftsmen,” he says.

Watch or listen to the latest episode of the GOVSI podcast.

V novi epizodi GOVSI podkasta je minister za infrastrukturo in energetiko Jernej Vrtovec spregovoril o cenah energentov pred začetkom kurilne sezone, prihodnosti jedrske energetike, ključnih infrastrukturnih projektih in posodobitvi prometnih povezav. Poudaril je pomen zanesljive oskrbe z energijo, hitrejšega izvajanja investicij in učinkovitejšega umeščanja projektov v prostor.

Minister je zagotovil, da ima Slovenija pred prihajajočo zimo zakupljene zadostne količine zemeljskega plina, zato večjih cenovnih pritiskov ne pričakuje. Pri naftnih derivatih je izpostavil že sprejete ukrepe za blažitev cen in prizadevanja za dodatno znižanje trošarin. Spregovoril je tudi o možnostih pomoči gospodinjstvom, ki se ogrevajo s kurilnim oljem.

Pomemben del pogovora je bil namenjen projektu drugega bloka Jedrske elektrarne Krško (JEK2). Minister je poudaril, da bo zaradi vse večje elektrifikacije potrebna dodatna stabilna proizvodnja električne energije. Po njegovih besedah bi se lahko umeščanje JEK2 v prostor zaključilo leta 2028, pri financiranju pa vidi možnosti tudi za vključitev tujih vlagateljev in slovenskega gospodarstva.

Na področju prometne infrastrukture je izpostavil drugi tir Divača–Koper, katerega odprtje je predvideno v prvi polovici prihodnjega leta, nadaljevanje gradnje tretje razvojne osi ter dodatne avtocestne pasove na najbolj obremenjenih odsekih. Napovedal je zakonodajne spremembe za pospešitev postopkov umeščanja strateških projektov v prostor in pridobivanja dovoljenj.

V zaključnem delu pogovora je minister spregovoril še o uvajanju novih tehnologij, samovozečih vozilih in uporabi dronov ter o nujnosti javnega potniškega prometa.

Pogovoru prisluhnite na vladnem YouTubovem kanalu in večjih podkastnih platformah.

[ENGLISH VERSION]
Less Congestion, More Energy: Minister Vrtovec on Key Development Projects

In the latest episode of the GOVSI Podcast, Minister of Infrastructure and Energy Jernej Vrtovec discussed energy prices ahead of the heating season, the future of nuclear energy, major infrastructure projects and the modernisation of transport connections. He emphasised the importance of reliable energy supplies, faster investment implementation and more efficient spatial planning procedures.

The Minister confirmed that Slovenia has secured sufficient natural gas supplies for the upcoming winter and does not expect significant price pressures. Regarding petroleum products, he highlighted measures already introduced to mitigate prices and efforts to secure further reductions in excise duties. He also discussed possible support for households using heating oil.

A significant part of the discussion focused on the second unit at the Krško Nuclear Power Plant (JEK2). The Minister stressed that increasing electrification would require additional reliable electricity generation. According to his estimates, spatial planning procedures for JEK2 could be completed in 2028. He also highlighted opportunities to involve foreign investors and Slovenian businesses in financing the project.

Regarding transport infrastructure, the Minister discussed the second railway track between Divača and Koper, expected to open in the first half of next year, the continued construction of the Third Development Axis and additional motorway lanes on the busiest sections. He announced legislative changes aimed at accelerating spatial planning and permitting procedures for strategic projects.

The final part of the discussion addressed emerging technologies, autonomous vehicles, drone deliveries and the future of public passenger transport. The Minister particularly emphasised the need to modernise Slovenia's railway network and develop faster connections, including the Ljubljana–Celje–Maribor route.

The full interview is available in the latest episode of the GOVSI Podcast on YouTube and major podcast platforms.

V novi epizodi GOVSI podkasta je ministrica za demografijo, družino in socialne zadeve Mateja Ribič spregovorila o spremembah dolgotrajne oskrbe, izzivih na področju kadrov in oskrbi na domu. Poudarila je, da mora biti cilj delujoč sistem, v katerem človek pravočasno dobi storitev, ki jo potrebuje.

Ministrica je pojasnila, da je pot od oddaje vloge do začetka oskrbe predolga. Nedavno sprejeti interventni ukrepi zato razbremenjujejo vstopne točke, širijo možnosti za vključevanje strokovnjakov v izvajanje oskrbe in odpravljajo razlike v plačilu primerljivih storitev v domovih. Stanovalci, ki so doslej plačevali preveč, bodo prejeli dobropis. Ukrepi vključujejo tudi mesečni dodatek za zaposlene v oskrbi.

Poseben poudarek pogovora je bila oskrba na domu. Ministrica želi, da bi ljudje, ki si tega želijo in za katere je to varno, čim dlje ostali v znanem okolju. Pri tem je izpostavila tudi sodelovanje z lokalnimi skupnostmi in razvoj manjših bivalnih enot.

Interventni ukrepi veljajo do konca leta 2027, ministrstvo pa že pripravlja dolgoročnejše spremembe. »Za vsemi temi številkami vedno stoji človek,« je poudarila ministrica.

Oddajo je tokrat vodil Martin Nahtigal. 

Pogovoru prisluhnite na YouTubovem kanalu GOVSI in večjih podkastnih platformah.

[ENGLISH VERSION]
GOVSI Podcast: Long-term care must be there when people need it

In the latest episode of the GOVSI Podcast, Minister of Demography, Family and Social Affairs Mateja Ribič discusses changes to long-term care, workforce challenges and care at home. She emphasises that the goal is a system that works in practice, enabling people to receive the care they need when they need it. 

The Minister explains that the time between submitting an application and receiving care is too long. Recently adopted temporary measures therefore ease the workload at entry points, allow more professionals to provide care and address differences in what residents pay for comparable services in care homes. Residents who have paid too much will receive a credit. The measures also include a monthly allowance for care workers.

Care at home is another focus of the conversation. The Minister wants people to be able to remain in familiar surroundings for as long as they wish, provided it is safe for them to do so. She also highlights cooperation with local communities and the development of smaller residential care units.

The temporary measures will remain in place until the end of 2027, while the Ministry is already preparing longer-term changes. “Behind all these figures, there is always a person,” the Minister stresses.

This episode was hosted by Martin Nahtigal.

Listen to the conversation on the GOVSI YouTube channel and major podcast platforms.

V novi epizodi GOVSI podkasta je vodja Klicnega centra 114 Matjaž Florjanc Lukan predstavil delo centra, ki je v treh letih postal pomembna informacijska točka za vse, ki potrebujejo preverjene informacije o postopkih, storitvah in pravicah, povezanih z državo.

Center je bil vzpostavljen po poplavah leta 2023, danes pa pokriva širok nabor vsebin – od dolgotrajne oskrbe in pokojninske reforme do osebnih dokumentov, zdravstvenih storitev ter pomoči ob kriznih dogodkih. Od ustanovitve so sprejeli že okoli 43.000 klicev, od tega samo v dobrem letu več kot 16.000 na temo dolgotrajne oskrbe.

»V resnici smo postali most med državo in državljani. Nismo samo enosmerna komunikacija države do državljanov. Smo dvosmerni kanal,« je poudaril Florjanc Lukan.

Svetovalci klicateljem pomagajo poiskati pravo pot do odgovora, jih usmerijo do pristojnih institucij in po potrebi pomagajo tudi pri izpolnjevanju vlog. Povratne informacije državljanov posredujejo naprej pristojnim organom in tako prispevajo tudi k izboljšanju postopkov.

Klicni center 114 je dosegljiv od ponedeljka do petka med 8. in 15. uro, za klice iz tujine pa je na voljo številka +386 1 478 50 00.

Celotnemu pogovoru prisluhnite v novi epizodi GOVSI podkasta, ki si jo lahko tudi ogledate.

[ENGLISH VERSION]
Call Centre 114: When you do not know who to contact, call 114

In the latest episode of the GOVSI Podcast, Head of Call Centre 114 Matjaž Florjanc Lukan presented the work of the centre, which over the past three years has become an important information point for anyone seeking reliable information about procedures, public services and rights related to the state.

Established after the 2023 floods, the centre today covers a wide range of topics, from long-term care and pension reform to identity documents, healthcare services and assistance during crisis situations. Since its establishment, it has handled around 43,000 calls, including more than 16,000 questions on long-term care in just over a year.

“We have become a bridge between the state and its citizens. We are not simply a one-way communication channel. We are a two-way channel,” Florjanc Lukan said.

Advisers help callers find the right route to an answer, direct them to the competent institutions and, where necessary, assist them with applications. Feedback from citizens is also passed on to the relevant authorities and can contribute to improving procedures.

Call Centre 114 is available from Monday to Friday between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. For calls from abroad, the number +386 1 478 50 00 is available.

Listen to or watch the full conversation in the latest episode of the GOVSI Podcast.

V novi epizodi vladnega GOVSI podkasta je gostoval Viktor Mlakar, vodja konzularnega sektorja na Ministrstvu za zunanje in evropske zadeve. Z voditeljico Petro Prešeren Golob sta govorila o konzularni pomoči slovenskim državljankam in državljanom v tujini, ravnanju v kriznih razmerah ter aplikaciji eLastovka.

Poletje je čas dopustov in potovanj, zato je pomembno, da se na pot v tujino dobro pripravimo. Večina poti mine brez zapletov, kadar pa se v tujini znajdemo v težavah, so ključne hitre, zanesljive in preverjene informacije.

Viktor Mlakar je pojasnil, da konzularna pomoč pomeni pomoč slovenskim državljanom v tujini, kadar se znajdejo v težavah. Najpogosteje gre za izgubo ali krajo osebnih dokumentov, nesreče, hospitalizacije, pripore ali zapore, pa tudi za upravno-pravne zadeve, povezane z življenjem v tujini, kot so rojstvo otroka, prijava državljanstva ali izdaja dokumentov.

Ob tem je poudaril, da konzularna pomoč ne pomeni, da država lahko plača hotelsko nastanitev, letalsko karto, zdravljenje ali odvetnika. Zato je pred potovanjem zelo pomembno skleniti ustrezno potovalno zdravstveno zavarovanje ter preveriti veljavnost dokumentov, vstopne pogoje, morebitne vizumske obveznosti in varnostne razmere v državi, kamor potujemo.

Poseben poudarek pogovora je bil namenjen aplikaciji eLastovka. Namenjena je vsem, ki potujejo v tujino – turistom, študentom, poslovnim potnikom in tistim, ki v tujini bivajo začasno. Uporabnikom omogoča dostop do informacij o varnostnih razmerah v posameznih državah, kontaktov slovenskih veleposlaništev in konzulatov ter nujnih telefonskih številk v državi potovanja.

Registrirani uporabniki lahko v aplikaciji prijavijo tudi svoje potovanje. Če se na območju, kjer se nahajajo, zgodi krizni dogodek, jih lahko ministrstvo obvesti prek SMS-sporočila, potisnega sporočila ali elektronske pošte. Prijava potovanja je prostovoljna, podatki pa se uporabljajo samo v primeru izrednih razmer in se po koncu potovanja samodejno izbrišejo.

Aplikacijo je mogoče uporabljati tudi brez registracije, vendar v tem primeru uporabnik ne more prijaviti potovanja. Še vedno pa ima dostop do informacij o državah, potovalnih priporočil in kontaktov pristojnih predstavništev.

Mlakar je popotnikom svetoval, naj pred odhodom preverijo vse potrebne informacije, sklenejo ustrezno zavarovanje in razmislijo o registraciji poti v eLastovki.

Vabljeni, da prisluhnite pogovoru. GOVSI podkast lahko spremljate tudi na vseh aplikacijah za podkaste in na vladnem kanalu YouTube.

[ENGLISH VERSION]

eLastovka for safer travel abroad

The latest episode of the government GOVSI podcast  features Viktor Mlakar, Head of the Consular Sector at the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs. In conversation with host Petra Prešeren Golob, he discussed consular assistance for Slovenian citizens abroad, how to act in crisis situations, and the eLastovka application.

Summer is a time for holidays and travel, which is why it is important to prepare well before travelling abroad. Most trips pass without complications, but when difficulties arise abroad, fast, reliable and verified information is essential.

Viktor Mlakar explained that consular assistance means helping Slovenian citizens abroad when they find themselves in difficulty. The most common cases include lost or stolen personal documents, accidents, hospitalisations, detentions or imprisonment, as well as administrative and legal matters connected with living abroad, such as the birth of a child, registration of citizenship or the issuing of documents.

He emphasised that consular assistance does not mean that the state can pay for hotel accommodation, airline tickets, medical treatment or a lawyer. It is therefore very important to take out appropriate travel health insurance before travelling, and to check the validity of documents, entry requirements, possible visa obligations and the security situation in the country of destination.

A special focus of the conversation was the eLastovka application. It is intended for everyone travelling abroad – tourists, students, business travellers and those staying abroad temporarily. The application provides access to information on the security situation in individual countries, contact details of Slovenian embassies and consulates, and emergency telephone numbers in the country of travel.

Registered users can also register their trip in the application. If a crisis occurs in the area where they are staying, the ministry can notify them by SMS, push notification or email. Trip registration is voluntary, and the data is used only in the event of an emergency and is automatically deleted after the trip ends.

The application can also be used without registration, but in that case users cannot register their trip. They still have access to country information, travel advice and contact details of the relevant representative offices.

Mlakar advised travellers to check all necessary information before departure, take out appropriate insurance and consider registering their trip in eLastovka.

The government podcast GOVSI is available on all podcast platforms and on the Government YouTube channel. 

V novi epizodi vladnega GOVSI podkasta je gostoval hidrolog Janez Polajnar z Agencije Republike Slovenije za okolje, dolgoletni strokovnjak za spremljanje in napovedovanje hidroloških razmer. Pogovor je bil namenjen pomenu pravočasnih opozoril, izkušnjam ob poplavah avgusta 2023 in prilagajanju na vse pogostejše vremenske ekstreme.

Polajnar se že več kot tri desetletja ukvarja s spremljanjem voda, analizami hidroloških razmer in opozarjanjem pred nevarnimi pojavi. Letos je prejel tudi najvišje priznanje javnim uslužbencem za izjemne delovne uspehe, in sicer za prispevek k razvoju napovedovanja hidroloških razmer v Sloveniji ter za strokovno in povezovalno delovanje v poplavnih dogodkih.

Kot je poudaril, ima hidrološka služba pomembno vlogo pri varnosti ljudi in premoženja. Njeno delo vključuje meritve na terenu, analize, pripravo hidroloških modelov in vsakodnevno napovedovanje razmer. Informacije, ki jih zagotavlja, so pomembne tudi za gospodarstvo, kmetijstvo, energetiko, turizem in upravljanje z vodami.

V pogovoru se je Polajnar ozrl tudi na najhujše poplave v zgodovini Slovenije avgusta 2023. Pojasnil je, da so bile razmere posebne že pred samim dogodkom, saj so bile rečne struge zaradi obilnih padavin že močno napolnjene. Nato je v noči s 3. na 4. avgust ponekod padlo več kot 200 litrov dežja na kvadratni meter v manj kot šestih urah.

Poseben izziv pri opozarjanju ostajajo hudourniške poplave, ki lahko nastanejo zelo hitro, tudi v manj kot eni uri. Zato so ključni pravočasna opozorila, dobro sodelovanje med institucijami in samozaščitno ravnanje prebivalcev.

Polajnar je poudaril, da se naravnih pojavov ne da preprečiti, lahko pa se nanje bolje pripravimo. Pri tem so pomembni sistem zgodnjega opozarjanja, povezovanje z zaščito in reševanjem, urejanje prostora ter zavedanje, da moramo vodi nameniti dovolj prostora.

V času podnebnih sprememb postajajo zanesljive informacije še pomembnejše. Agencija Republike Slovenije za okolje zato opozorila in napovedi objavlja prek uradnih kanalov in družbenih omrežij, javnosti pa priporoča spremljanje preverjenih virov. Med koristnimi orodji je tudi Atlas okolja, kjer so dostopne karte poplavne nevarnosti in ogroženosti.

»Naš največji cilj je, da ob silovitih in nepredvidljivih poplavah nimamo človeških žrtev,« je v pogovoru poudaril Polajnar. Dodal je, da je vlaganje v preventivo, kadre in tehnološki razvoj naložba v varnost ljudi in družbe.

Prisluhnite pogovoru. Vladni GOVSI podkast lahko spremljate tudi na vseh aplikacijah za podkaste in na vladnem kanalu YouTube.

[ENGLISH VERSION] 

From Olympic Rapids to Safer Coexistence with Water

The latest episode of the government GOVSI podcast features hydrologist Janez Polajnar from the Slovenian Environment Agency, a long-standing expert in monitoring and forecasting hydrological conditions. The conversation focused on the importance of timely warnings, the experience of the August 2023 floods, and adapting to increasingly frequent extreme weather events.

Polajnar has been involved in water monitoring, the analysis of hydrological conditions and warnings of dangerous phenomena for more than three decades. This year, he also received the highest award for civil servants for outstanding work achievements, namely for his contribution to the development of hydrological forecasting in Slovenia and for his expert and collaborative work during flood events.

As he pointed out, the hydrological service plays an important role in protecting people and property. Its work includes field measurements, analyses, the preparation of hydrological models, and daily forecasting of conditions. The information it provides is also important for the economy, agriculture, energy, tourism and water management.

In the conversation, Polajnar also reflected on the worst floods in Slovenia’s history, which occurred in August 2023. He explained that the conditions had already been unusual before the event itself, as river channels were already very full due to heavy rainfall. Then, on the night of 3 to 4 August, more than 200 litres of rain per square metre fell in some places in less than six hours.

Flash floods, which can develop very quickly, even in less than an hour, remain a particular challenge when it comes to warnings. Timely alerts, good cooperation between institutions and self-protective action by residents are therefore crucial.

Polajnar stressed that natural phenomena cannot be prevented, but we can prepare for them better. Important elements in this are the early warning system, cooperation with civil protection and disaster relief services, spatial planning, and the awareness that water must be given enough space.

In the era of climate change, reliable information is becoming even more important. The Slovenian Environment Agency therefore publishes warnings and forecasts through official channels and social media, and recommends that the public follow verified sources. One useful tool is the Environmental Atlas, which provides maps of flood hazard and flood risk.

“Our greatest goal is to ensure that violent and unpredictable floods do not claim human lives,” Polajnar emphasised in the conversation. He added that investment in prevention, staff and technological development is an investment in the safety of people and society.

The government podcast GOVSI is available on all podcast platforms and on the Government YouTube channel.