
Slovenia
EuropeSI December 21, 2025




Background
The Slovene lands were part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire until the latter's dissolution at the end of World War I. In 1918, Slovenia became part of the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes, which was renamed Yugoslavia in 1929. After World War II, Slovenia joined Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Macedonia, Montenegro, and Serbia as one of the constituent republics in the new Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia (SFRY). In 1990, Slovenia held its first multiparty elections, as well as a referendum on independence. Serbia responded with an economic blockade and military action, but after a short 10-day war, Slovenia declared independence in 1991. Slovenia acceded to both NATO and the EU in the spring of 2004; it joined the euro zone and the Schengen Area in 2007.
Geographic coordinates
46 07 N, 14 49 E
Natural hazards
flooding; earthquakes
Area - comparative
slightly smaller than New Jersey
Environmental issues
air pollution from road traffic, domestic heating (wood burning), power generation, and industry; water pollution; biodiversity protection
International environmental agreements
Party to: Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Heavy Metals, Air Pollution-Multi-effect Protocol, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Persistent Organic Pollutants, Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping-London Convention, Marine Dumping-London Protocol, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 2006, Wetlands, Whaling
Signed, but not ratified: None of the selected agreements
Signed, but not ratified: None of the selected agreements
Climate
Mediterranean climate on the coast, continental climate with mild to hot summers and cold winters in the plateaus and valleys to the east
Coastline
46.6 km
Land boundaries
Total: 1,211 km
Border countries (4): Austria 299 km; Croatia 600 km; Hungary 94 km; Italy 218 km
Border countries (4): Austria 299 km; Croatia 600 km; Hungary 94 km; Italy 218 km
Land use
Agricultural land: 30.4% (2023 est.)
Arable land: 8.9% (2023 est.)
Permanent crops: 2.7% (2023 est.)
Permanent pasture: 18.8% (2023 est.)
Forest: 61.8% (2023 est.)
Other: 10.8% (2023 est.)
Arable land: 8.9% (2023 est.)
Permanent crops: 2.7% (2023 est.)
Permanent pasture: 18.8% (2023 est.)
Forest: 61.8% (2023 est.)
Other: 10.8% (2023 est.)
Maritime claims
Territorial sea: 12 nm
Natural resources
lignite, lead, zinc, building stone, hydropower, forests
Geography - note
despite its small size, this eastern Alpine country controls some of Europe's major transit routes
Terrain
a short southwestern coastal strip of Karst topography on the Adriatic; an alpine mountain region lies adjacent to Italy and Austria in the north; mixed mountains and valleys with numerous rivers to the east
Location
south Central Europe, Julian Alps between Austria and Croatia
Map references
Europe
Irrigated land
50 sq km (2022)
Total renewable water resources
31.87 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
Population distribution
a fairly even distribution throughout most of the country, with urban areas attracting larger and denser populations; pockets in the mountainous northwest are less dense
Elevation
Highest point: Triglav 2,864 m
Lowest point: Adriatic Sea 0 m
Mean elevation: 492 m
Lowest point: Adriatic Sea 0 m
Mean elevation: 492 m
Major watersheds (area sq km)
Atlantic Ocean drainage: (Black Sea) Danube (795,656 sq km)
Area
Total : 20,273 sq km
Land: 20,151 sq km
Water: 122 sq km
Land: 20,151 sq km
Water: 122 sq km
Age structure
0-14 years: 14.3% (male 153,852/female 146,628)
15-64 years: 62.5% (male 683,573/female 627,788)
65 years and over: 23.2% (2024 est.) (male 213,619/female 272,433)
15-64 years: 62.5% (male 683,573/female 627,788)
65 years and over: 23.2% (2024 est.) (male 213,619/female 272,433)
Sex ratio
At birth: 1.04 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.05 male(s)/female
15-64 years: 1.09 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.78 male(s)/female
Total population: 1 male(s)/female (2024 est.)
0-14 years: 1.05 male(s)/female
15-64 years: 1.09 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.78 male(s)/female
Total population: 1 male(s)/female (2024 est.)
Nationality
Noun: Slovene(s)
Adjective: Slovenian
Adjective: Slovenian
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education)
Total: 17 years (2023 est.)
Male: 17 years (2023 est.)
Female: 18 years (2023 est.)
Male: 17 years (2023 est.)
Female: 18 years (2023 est.)
Urbanization
Urban population: 56.1% of total population (2023)
Rate of urbanization: 0.54% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Rate of urbanization: 0.54% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Drinking water source
Improved:
Total: 99.5% of population (2022 est.)
Unimproved:
Total: 0.5% of population (2022 est.)
Total: 99.5% of population (2022 est.)
Unimproved:
Total: 0.5% of population (2022 est.)
Major urban areas - population
286,000 LJUBLJANA (capital) (2018)
Physician density
3.37 physicians/1,000 population (2022)
Hospital bed density
4.2 beds/1,000 population (2020 est.)
Mother's mean age at first birth
29 years (2020 est.)
Dependency ratios
Total dependency ratio: 58.5 (2024 est.)
Youth dependency ratio: 22.8 (2024 est.)
Elderly dependency ratio: 35.7 (2024 est.)
Potential support ratio: 2.8 (2024 est.)
Youth dependency ratio: 22.8 (2024 est.)
Elderly dependency ratio: 35.7 (2024 est.)
Potential support ratio: 2.8 (2024 est.)
Sanitation facility access
Improved:
Total: 99.2% of population (2022 est.)
Unimproved:
Total: 0.8% of population (2022 est.)
Total: 99.2% of population (2022 est.)
Unimproved:
Total: 0.8% of population (2022 est.)
Ethnic groups
Slovene 83.1%, Serb 2%, Croat 1.8%, Bosniak 1.1%, other or unspecified 12% (2002 est.)
Religions
Catholic 69%, Orthodox 4%, Muslim 3%, Christian 1%, other 3%, atheist 14%, non-believer/agnostic 4%, refused to answer 2% (2019 est.)
Languages
Slovene (official) 87.7%, Croatian 2.8%, Serbo-Croatian 1.8%, Bosnian 1.6%, Serbian 1.6%, Hungarian 0.4% (official, only in municipalities where Hungarian nationals reside), Italian 0.2% (official, only in municipalities where Italian nationals reside), other or unspecified 3.9% (2002 est.)
Major-language sample(s):
Svetovni informativni zvezek - neobhoden vir osnovnih informacij. (Slovene)
The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information.
Major-language sample(s):
Svetovni informativni zvezek - neobhoden vir osnovnih informacij. (Slovene)
The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information.
Health expenditure
8.8% of GDP (2022)
15% of national budget (2022 est.)
15% of national budget (2022 est.)
Gross reproduction rate
0.79 (2024 est.)
Currently married women (ages 15-49)
47.2% (2021 est.)
Youth unemployment rate (ages 15-24)
Total: 9.4% (2024 est.)
Male: 10.6% (2024 est.)
Female: 7.9% (2024 est.)
note: % of labor force ages 15-24 seeking employment
Male: 10.6% (2024 est.)
Female: 7.9% (2024 est.)
note: % of labor force ages 15-24 seeking employment
Net migration rate
1.5 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2024 est.)
Median age
Total: 46.3 years (2024 est.)
Male: 45 years
Female: 47.9 years
Male: 45 years
Female: 47.9 years
Maternal mortality ratio
3 deaths/100,000 live births (2023 est.)
Total fertility rate
1.6 children born/woman (2024 est.)
Population
Total: 2,097,893 (2024 est.)
Male: 1,051,044
Female: 1,046,849
Male: 1,051,044
Female: 1,046,849
Infant mortality rate
Total: 1.5 deaths/1,000 live births (2024 est.)
Male: 1.6 deaths/1,000 live births
Female: 1.4 deaths/1,000 live births
Male: 1.6 deaths/1,000 live births
Female: 1.4 deaths/1,000 live births
Tobacco use
Total: 17.3% (2025 est.)
Male: 19.3% (2025 est.)
Female: 15.3% (2025 est.)
Male: 19.3% (2025 est.)
Female: 15.3% (2025 est.)
Obesity - adult prevalence rate
20.2% (2016)
Death rate
10.5 deaths/1,000 population (2024 est.)
Birth rate
8 births/1,000 population (2024 est.)
Alcohol consumption per capita
Total: 11.05 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Beer: 4.54 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Wine: 5.26 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Spirits: 1.26 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Other alcohols: 0 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Beer: 4.54 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Wine: 5.26 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Spirits: 1.26 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Other alcohols: 0 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Life expectancy at birth
Total population: 82.2 years (2024 est.)
Male: 79.4 years
Female: 85.2 years
Male: 79.4 years
Female: 85.2 years
Education expenditure
5.3% of GDP (2022 est.)
11.1% national budget (2022 est.)
11.1% national budget (2022 est.)
Population growth rate
-0.1% (2024 est.)
Total water withdrawal
Municipal: 179 million cubic meters (2022)
Industrial: 645 million cubic meters (2022)
Agricultural: 3.4 million cubic meters (2022)
Industrial: 645 million cubic meters (2022)
Agricultural: 3.4 million cubic meters (2022)
Waste and recycling
Municipal solid waste generated annually: 1.052 million tons (2024 est.)
Percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 24.8% (2022 est.)
Percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 24.8% (2022 est.)
Particulate matter emissions
14.1 micrograms per cubic meter (2019 est.)
Carbon dioxide emissions
10.772 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
From coal and metallurgical coke: 2.706 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
From petroleum and other liquids: 6.521 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
From consumed natural gas: 1.545 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
From coal and metallurgical coke: 2.706 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
From petroleum and other liquids: 6.521 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
From consumed natural gas: 1.545 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
Energy consumption per capita
104.502 million Btu/person (2023 est.)
Diplomatic representation from the US
Chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Chargé d’Affaires Brian GREANEY (since August 2025)
Embassy: Presernova 31, 1000 Ljubljana
Mailing address: 7140 Ljubljana Place, Washington, DC 20521-7140
Telephone: [386] (1) 200-5500
FAX: [386] (1) 200-5555
Email address and website:
LjubljanaACS@state.gov
https://si.usembassy.gov/
Embassy: Presernova 31, 1000 Ljubljana
Mailing address: 7140 Ljubljana Place, Washington, DC 20521-7140
Telephone: [386] (1) 200-5500
FAX: [386] (1) 200-5555
Email address and website:
LjubljanaACS@state.gov
https://si.usembassy.gov/
Administrative divisions
200 municipalities (obcine, singular - obcina) and 12 urban municipalities (mestne obcine, singular - mestna obcina)
Municipalities: Ajdovscina, Ankaran, Apace, Beltinci, Benedikt, Bistrica ob Sotli, Bled, Bloke, Bohinj, Borovnica, Bovec, Braslovce, Brda, Brezice, Brezovica, Cankova, Cerklje na Gorenjskem, Cerknica, Cerkno, Cerkvenjak, Cirkulane, Crensovci, Crna na Koroskem, Crnomelj, Destrnik, Divaca, Dobje, Dobrepolje, Dobrna, Dobrova-Polhov Gradec, Dobrovnik/Dobronak, Dolenjske Toplice, Dol pri Ljubljani, Domzale, Dornava, Dravograd, Duplek, Gorenja Vas-Poljane, Gorisnica, Gorje, Gornja Radgona, Gornji Grad, Gornji Petrovci, Grad, Grosuplje, Hajdina, Hoce-Slivnica, Hodos, Horjul, Hrastnik, Hrpelje-Kozina, Idrija, Ig, Ilirska Bistrica, Ivancna Gorica, Izola/Isola, Jesenice, Jezersko, Jursinci, Kamnik, Kanal ob Soci, Kidricevo, Kobarid, Kobilje, Kocevje, Komen, Komenda, Kosanjevica na Krki, Kostel, Kozje, Kranjska Gora, Krizevci, Kungota, Kuzma, Lasko, Lenart, Lendava/Lendva, Litija, Ljubno, Ljutomer, Log-Dragomer, Logatec, Loska Dolina, Loski Potok, Lovrenc na Pohorju, Luce, Lukovica, Majsperk, Makole, Markovci, Medvode, Menges, Metlika, Mezica, Miklavz na Dravskem Polju, Miren-Kostanjevica, Mirna, Mirna Pec, Mislinja, Mokronog-Trebelno, Moravce, Moravske Toplice, Mozirje, Muta, Naklo, Nazarje, Odranci, Oplotnica, Ormoz, Osilnica, Pesnica, Piran/Pirano, Pivka, Podcetrtek, Podlehnik, Podvelka, Poljcane, Polzela, Postojna, Prebold, Preddvor, Prevalje, Puconci, Race-Fram, Radece, Radenci, Radlje ob Dravi, Radovljica, Ravne na Koroskem, Razkrizje, Recica ob Savinji, Rence-Vogrsko, Ribnica, Ribnica na Pohorju, Rogaska Slatina, Rogasovci, Rogatec, Ruse, Salovci, Selnica ob Dravi, Semic, Sempeter-Vrtojba, Sencur, Sentilj, Sentjernej, Sentjur, Sentrupert, Sevnica, Sezana, Skocjan, Skofja Loka, Skofljica, Slovenska Bistrica, Slovenske Konjice, Smarje pri Jelsah, Smarjeske Toplice, Smartno ob Paki, Smartno pri Litiji, Sodrazica, Solcava, Sostanj, Sredisce ob Dravi, Starse, Store, Straza, Sveta Ana, Sveta Trojica v Slovenskih Goricah, Sveti Andraz v Slovenskih Goricah, Sveti Jurij ob Scavnici, Sveti Jurij v Slovenskih Goricah, Sveti Tomaz, Tabor, Tisina, Tolmin, Trbovlje, Trebnje, Trnovska Vas, Trzic, Trzin, Turnisce, Velika Polana, Velike Lasce, Verzej, Videm, Vipava, Vitanje, Vodice, Vojnik, Vransko, Vrhnika, Vuzenica, Zagorje ob Savi, Zalec, Zavrc, Zelezniki, Zetale, Ziri, Zirovnica, Zrece, Zuzemberk
Urban municipalities: Celje, Koper, Kranj, Krsko, Ljubljana, Maribor, Murska Sobota, Nova Gorica, Novo Mesto, Ptuj, Slovenj Gradec, Velenje
Municipalities: Ajdovscina, Ankaran, Apace, Beltinci, Benedikt, Bistrica ob Sotli, Bled, Bloke, Bohinj, Borovnica, Bovec, Braslovce, Brda, Brezice, Brezovica, Cankova, Cerklje na Gorenjskem, Cerknica, Cerkno, Cerkvenjak, Cirkulane, Crensovci, Crna na Koroskem, Crnomelj, Destrnik, Divaca, Dobje, Dobrepolje, Dobrna, Dobrova-Polhov Gradec, Dobrovnik/Dobronak, Dolenjske Toplice, Dol pri Ljubljani, Domzale, Dornava, Dravograd, Duplek, Gorenja Vas-Poljane, Gorisnica, Gorje, Gornja Radgona, Gornji Grad, Gornji Petrovci, Grad, Grosuplje, Hajdina, Hoce-Slivnica, Hodos, Horjul, Hrastnik, Hrpelje-Kozina, Idrija, Ig, Ilirska Bistrica, Ivancna Gorica, Izola/Isola, Jesenice, Jezersko, Jursinci, Kamnik, Kanal ob Soci, Kidricevo, Kobarid, Kobilje, Kocevje, Komen, Komenda, Kosanjevica na Krki, Kostel, Kozje, Kranjska Gora, Krizevci, Kungota, Kuzma, Lasko, Lenart, Lendava/Lendva, Litija, Ljubno, Ljutomer, Log-Dragomer, Logatec, Loska Dolina, Loski Potok, Lovrenc na Pohorju, Luce, Lukovica, Majsperk, Makole, Markovci, Medvode, Menges, Metlika, Mezica, Miklavz na Dravskem Polju, Miren-Kostanjevica, Mirna, Mirna Pec, Mislinja, Mokronog-Trebelno, Moravce, Moravske Toplice, Mozirje, Muta, Naklo, Nazarje, Odranci, Oplotnica, Ormoz, Osilnica, Pesnica, Piran/Pirano, Pivka, Podcetrtek, Podlehnik, Podvelka, Poljcane, Polzela, Postojna, Prebold, Preddvor, Prevalje, Puconci, Race-Fram, Radece, Radenci, Radlje ob Dravi, Radovljica, Ravne na Koroskem, Razkrizje, Recica ob Savinji, Rence-Vogrsko, Ribnica, Ribnica na Pohorju, Rogaska Slatina, Rogasovci, Rogatec, Ruse, Salovci, Selnica ob Dravi, Semic, Sempeter-Vrtojba, Sencur, Sentilj, Sentjernej, Sentjur, Sentrupert, Sevnica, Sezana, Skocjan, Skofja Loka, Skofljica, Slovenska Bistrica, Slovenske Konjice, Smarje pri Jelsah, Smarjeske Toplice, Smartno ob Paki, Smartno pri Litiji, Sodrazica, Solcava, Sostanj, Sredisce ob Dravi, Starse, Store, Straza, Sveta Ana, Sveta Trojica v Slovenskih Goricah, Sveti Andraz v Slovenskih Goricah, Sveti Jurij ob Scavnici, Sveti Jurij v Slovenskih Goricah, Sveti Tomaz, Tabor, Tisina, Tolmin, Trbovlje, Trebnje, Trnovska Vas, Trzic, Trzin, Turnisce, Velika Polana, Velike Lasce, Verzej, Videm, Vipava, Vitanje, Vodice, Vojnik, Vransko, Vrhnika, Vuzenica, Zagorje ob Savi, Zalec, Zavrc, Zelezniki, Zetale, Ziri, Zirovnica, Zrece, Zuzemberk
Urban municipalities: Celje, Koper, Kranj, Krsko, Ljubljana, Maribor, Murska Sobota, Nova Gorica, Novo Mesto, Ptuj, Slovenj Gradec, Velenje
Capital
Name: Ljubljana
Geographic coordinates: 46 03 N, 14 31 E
Time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
Etymology: By tradition, the name is related to the Slovene word ljubljena, meaning "beloved," but the origin is probably pre-Slavic and remains obscure
Geographic coordinates: 46 03 N, 14 31 E
Time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
Etymology: By tradition, the name is related to the Slovene word ljubljena, meaning "beloved," but the origin is probably pre-Slavic and remains obscure
Constitution
History: Previous 1974 (pre-independence); latest passed by Parliament 23 December 1991
Amendment process: Proposed by at least 20 National Assembly members, by the government, or by petition of at least 30,000 voters; passage requires at least two-thirds majority vote by the Assembly; referendum required if agreed upon by at least 30 Assembly members; passage in a referendum requires participation of a majority of eligible voters and a simple majority of votes cast
Amendment process: Proposed by at least 20 National Assembly members, by the government, or by petition of at least 30,000 voters; passage requires at least two-thirds majority vote by the Assembly; referendum required if agreed upon by at least 30 Assembly members; passage in a referendum requires participation of a majority of eligible voters and a simple majority of votes cast
Executive branch
Chief of state: President Natasa PIRC MUSAR (since 23 December 2022)
Head of government: Prime Minister Robert GOLOB (since 1 June 2022)
Cabinet: Council of Ministers nominated by the prime minister, elected by the National Assembly
Election/appointment process: President directly elected by absolute-majority popular vote in 2 rounds, if needed, for a 5-year term (eligible for a second consecutive term); following National Assembly elections, the president usually nominates the leader of the majority party or majority coalition as prime minister, and the National Assembly elects the nominee
Most recent election date: 23 October 2022, with a runoff on 13 November 2022
Election results:
2022: Natasa PIRC MUSAR elected president in second round: percent of vote in first round - Anze LOGAR (SDS) 34%, Natasa PIRC MUSAR (independent) 26.9%, Milan BRGLEZ (SD) 15.5%, Vladimir PREBILIC (independent) 10.6%, Sabina SENCAR (Resni.ca) 5.9%, Janez CIGLER KRALJ (NSi) 4.4%, other 2.7%; percent of vote in second round - Natasa PIRC MUSAR 53.9%, Anze LOGAR 46.1%; Robert GOLOB (GS) elected prime minister on 25 May 2022, National Assembly vote - 54-30
2017: Borut PAHOR reelected president in second round; percent of vote in first round - Borut PAHOR (independent) 47.1%, Marjan SAREC (Marjan Sarec List) 25%, Romana TOMC (SDS) 13.7%, Ljudmila NOVAK (NSi) 7.2%, other 7%; percent of vote in second round - Borut PAHOR 52.9%, Marjan SAREC 47.1%
Expected date of next election: 2027
Head of government: Prime Minister Robert GOLOB (since 1 June 2022)
Cabinet: Council of Ministers nominated by the prime minister, elected by the National Assembly
Election/appointment process: President directly elected by absolute-majority popular vote in 2 rounds, if needed, for a 5-year term (eligible for a second consecutive term); following National Assembly elections, the president usually nominates the leader of the majority party or majority coalition as prime minister, and the National Assembly elects the nominee
Most recent election date: 23 October 2022, with a runoff on 13 November 2022
Election results:
2022: Natasa PIRC MUSAR elected president in second round: percent of vote in first round - Anze LOGAR (SDS) 34%, Natasa PIRC MUSAR (independent) 26.9%, Milan BRGLEZ (SD) 15.5%, Vladimir PREBILIC (independent) 10.6%, Sabina SENCAR (Resni.ca) 5.9%, Janez CIGLER KRALJ (NSi) 4.4%, other 2.7%; percent of vote in second round - Natasa PIRC MUSAR 53.9%, Anze LOGAR 46.1%; Robert GOLOB (GS) elected prime minister on 25 May 2022, National Assembly vote - 54-30
2017: Borut PAHOR reelected president in second round; percent of vote in first round - Borut PAHOR (independent) 47.1%, Marjan SAREC (Marjan Sarec List) 25%, Romana TOMC (SDS) 13.7%, Ljudmila NOVAK (NSi) 7.2%, other 7%; percent of vote in second round - Borut PAHOR 52.9%, Marjan SAREC 47.1%
Expected date of next election: 2027
Flag
Description: Three equal horizontal bands of white (top), blue, and red; the Slovenian seal (a shield with Triglav, the country's highest peak, in white on a blue background) is at the center, with two wavy blue lines under it; three six-pointed stars in an inverted triangle appear on the upper-left
Meaning: The wavy lines represent seas and rivers; The colors come from the medieval coat of arms of the Duchy of Carniola; the stars come from the coat of arms of the Counts of Celje (a Slovene dynastic house)
Meaning: The wavy lines represent seas and rivers; The colors come from the medieval coat of arms of the Duchy of Carniola; the stars come from the coat of arms of the Counts of Celje (a Slovene dynastic house)
Independence
25 June 1991 (from Yugoslavia)
Judicial branch
Highest court(s): Supreme Court (consists of the court president and 37 judges organized into civil, criminal, commercial, labor and social security, administrative, and registry departments); Constitutional Court (consists of the court president, vice president, and 7 judges)
Judge selection and term of office: Supreme Court president and vice president appointed by the National Assembly on the proposal of the Minister of Justice, based on the opinions of the Judicial Council, an 11-member independent body elected by the National Assembly from proposals submitted by the president, attorneys, law universities, and sitting judges; other Supreme Court judges elected by the National Assembly from candidates proposed by the Judicial Council; Supreme Court judges serve for life; Constitutional Court judges appointed by the National Assembly from nominations by the president of the republic; Constitutional Court president selected from among its own membership for a 3-year term; other judges elected for single 9-year terms
Subordinate courts: County, district, regional, and high courts; specialized labor-related and social courts; Court of Audit; Administrative Court
Judge selection and term of office: Supreme Court president and vice president appointed by the National Assembly on the proposal of the Minister of Justice, based on the opinions of the Judicial Council, an 11-member independent body elected by the National Assembly from proposals submitted by the president, attorneys, law universities, and sitting judges; other Supreme Court judges elected by the National Assembly from candidates proposed by the Judicial Council; Supreme Court judges serve for life; Constitutional Court judges appointed by the National Assembly from nominations by the president of the republic; Constitutional Court president selected from among its own membership for a 3-year term; other judges elected for single 9-year terms
Subordinate courts: County, district, regional, and high courts; specialized labor-related and social courts; Court of Audit; Administrative Court
Legal system
civil law system
Legislative branch
Legislative structure: Bicameral
International organization participation
Australia Group, BIS, CD, CE, CEI, EAPC, EBRD, ECB, EIB, EMU, ESA (cooperating state), EU, FAO, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (national committees), ICCt, ICRM, IDA, IFC, IFRCS, IHO, ILO, IMF, IMO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO, ITU, MIGA, NATO, NEA, NSG, OAS (observer), OECD, OIF (observer), OPCW, OSCE, PCA, Schengen Convention, SELEC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIFIL, UNTSO, UNWTO, UPU, Wassenaar Arrangement, WCO, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO, ZC
National holiday
Independence Day/Statehood Day, 25 June (1991)
Political parties
Democratic Party of Pensioners of Slovenia or DeSUS
Freedom Movement or GS (formerly Greens Actions Party or Z.DEJ)
List of Marjan Sarec or LMS
New Slovenia - Christian Democrats or NSi
Party of Alenka Bratusek or SAB (formerly Alliance of Social Liberal Democrats or ZSD and before that Alliance of Alenka Bratusek or ZaAB)
Resni.ca
Slovenian Democratic Party or SDS (formerly the Social Democratic Party of Slovenia or SDSS)
Slovenian National Party or SNS
Social Democrats or SD
The Left or Levica (successor to United Left or ZL)
Freedom Movement or GS (formerly Greens Actions Party or Z.DEJ)
List of Marjan Sarec or LMS
New Slovenia - Christian Democrats or NSi
Party of Alenka Bratusek or SAB (formerly Alliance of Social Liberal Democrats or ZSD and before that Alliance of Alenka Bratusek or ZaAB)
Resni.ca
Slovenian Democratic Party or SDS (formerly the Social Democratic Party of Slovenia or SDSS)
Slovenian National Party or SNS
Social Democrats or SD
The Left or Levica (successor to United Left or ZL)
Suffrage
18 years of age; universal
Government type
parliamentary republic
Country name
Conventional long form: Republic of Slovenia
Conventional short form: Slovenia
Local long form: Republika Slovenija
Local short form: Slovenija
Former: People's Republic of Slovenia, Socialist Republic of Slovenia
Etymology: The country's name means "Land of the Slavs" in Slovene; the origin of the Slav name is unclear, although early forms were used in Medieval Latin (Sclavus) and Byzantine Greek (Sklabos)
Conventional short form: Slovenia
Local long form: Republika Slovenija
Local short form: Slovenija
Former: People's Republic of Slovenia, Socialist Republic of Slovenia
Etymology: The country's name means "Land of the Slavs" in Slovene; the origin of the Slav name is unclear, although early forms were used in Medieval Latin (Sclavus) and Byzantine Greek (Sklabos)
Diplomatic representation in the US
Chief of mission: Ambassador Iztok MIROŠIČ (since 15 September 2023)
Chancery: 2410 California Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
Telephone: [1] (202) 386-6611
FAX: [1] (202) 386-6633
Email address and website:
Sloembassy.washington@gov.si
http://www.washington.embassy.si/
Consulate(s) general: Cleveland (OH)
Chancery: 2410 California Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
Telephone: [1] (202) 386-6611
FAX: [1] (202) 386-6633
Email address and website:
Sloembassy.washington@gov.si
http://www.washington.embassy.si/
Consulate(s) general: Cleveland (OH)
National anthem(s)
Title: "Zdravljica" (A Toast)
Lyrics/music: France PRESEREN/Stanko PREMRL
History: Adopted in 1989; originally written in 1848; only the seventh verse of the poem is used as the anthem
Lyrics/music: France PRESEREN/Stanko PREMRL
History: Adopted in 1989; originally written in 1848; only the seventh verse of the poem is used as the anthem
International law organization participation
has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
National symbol(s)
Mount Triglav
Citizenship
Citizenship by birth: No
Citizenship by descent only: At least one parent must be a citizen of Slovenia; both parents if the child is born outside of Slovenia
Dual citizenship recognized: Yes, for select cases
Residency requirement for naturalization: 10 years, the last 5 of which have been continuous
Citizenship by descent only: At least one parent must be a citizen of Slovenia; both parents if the child is born outside of Slovenia
Dual citizenship recognized: Yes, for select cases
Residency requirement for naturalization: 10 years, the last 5 of which have been continuous
National heritage
Total World Heritage Sites: 5 (3 cultural, 2 natural)
Selected World Heritage Site locales: Škocjan Caves (n); Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions of Europe (n); Prehistoric Pile Dwellings around the Alps (c); Heritage of Mercury: Almadén and Idrija (c); The works of Jože Plečnik in Ljubljana (c)
Selected World Heritage Site locales: Škocjan Caves (n); Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions of Europe (n); Prehistoric Pile Dwellings around the Alps (c); Heritage of Mercury: Almadén and Idrija (c); The works of Jože Plečnik in Ljubljana (c)
National color(s)
white, blue, red
Population below poverty line
12.7% (2022 est.)
note: % of population with income below national poverty line
note: % of population with income below national poverty line
Household income or consumption by percentage share
Lowest 10%: 4.2% (2022 est.)
Highest 10%: 20.7% (2022 est.)
note: % share of income accruing to lowest and highest 10% of population
Highest 10%: 20.7% (2022 est.)
note: % share of income accruing to lowest and highest 10% of population
Exports - commodities
packaged medicine, cars, refined petroleum, vehicle parts/accessories, plastic products (2023)
note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Exports - partners
Switzerland 22%, Germany 12%, Italy 10%, Croatia 8%, Austria 6% (2023)
note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Agricultural products
milk, maize, wheat, barley, grapes, chicken, potatoes, beef, apples, pork (2023)
note: top ten agricultural products based on tonnage
note: top ten agricultural products based on tonnage
Budget
Revenues: $28.874 billion (2023 est.)
Expenditures: $30.714 billion (2023 est.)
note: central government revenues (excluding grants) and expenditures converted to US dollars at average official exchange rate for year indicated
Expenditures: $30.714 billion (2023 est.)
note: central government revenues (excluding grants) and expenditures converted to US dollars at average official exchange rate for year indicated
Imports - commodities
nitrogen compounds, packaged medicine, refined petroleum, cars, vaccines (2023)
note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Exchange rates
euros (EUR) per US dollar -
Exchange rates:
0.924 (2024 est.)
0.925 (2023 est.)
0.95 (2022 est.)
0.845 (2021 est.)
0.876 (2020 est.)
Exchange rates:
0.924 (2024 est.)
0.925 (2023 est.)
0.95 (2022 est.)
0.845 (2021 est.)
0.876 (2020 est.)
Industries
ferrous metallurgy and aluminum products, lead and zinc smelting; electronics (including military electronics), trucks, automobiles, electric power equipment, wood products, textiles, chemicals, machine tools
Economic overview
High-income EU and eurozone economy; high per-capita income and low inequality; key exports in automotive and pharmaceuticals; tight labor market with low unemployment; growth supported by private consumption and public investment, with risks from tight labor market and trade conditions; narrowing fiscal deficit and declining public debt
GDP (official exchange rate)
$72.485 billion (2024 est.)
note: data in current dollars at official exchange rate
note: data in current dollars at official exchange rate
GDP - composition, by end use
Household consumption: 52.3% (2023 est.)
Government consumption: 19.2% (2023 est.)
Investment in fixed capital: 21.3% (2023 est.)
Investment in inventories: 0.9% (2023 est.)
Exports of goods and services: 83.3% (2023 est.)
Imports of goods and services: -76.8% (2023 est.)
note: figures may not total 100% due to rounding or gaps in data collection
Government consumption: 19.2% (2023 est.)
Investment in fixed capital: 21.3% (2023 est.)
Investment in inventories: 0.9% (2023 est.)
Exports of goods and services: 83.3% (2023 est.)
Imports of goods and services: -76.8% (2023 est.)
note: figures may not total 100% due to rounding or gaps in data collection
Imports - partners
Switzerland 17%, China 15%, Germany 11%, Italy 9%, Austria 6% (2023)
note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Average household expenditures
On food: 13.9% of household expenditures (2023 est.)
On alcohol and tobacco: 4.5% of household expenditures (2023 est.)
On alcohol and tobacco: 4.5% of household expenditures (2023 est.)
Remittances
1.2% of GDP (2024 est.)
1.3% of GDP (2023 est.)
1.3% of GDP (2022 est.)
note: personal transfers and compensation between resident and non-resident individuals/households/entities
1.3% of GDP (2023 est.)
1.3% of GDP (2022 est.)
note: personal transfers and compensation between resident and non-resident individuals/households/entities
Labor force
1.058 million (2024 est.)
note: number of people ages 15 or older who are employed or seeking work
note: number of people ages 15 or older who are employed or seeking work
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold
$2.832 billion (2024 est.)
$2.37 billion (2023 est.)
$2.268 billion (2022 est.)
note: holdings of gold (year-end prices)/foreign exchange/special drawing rights in current dollars
$2.37 billion (2023 est.)
$2.268 billion (2022 est.)
note: holdings of gold (year-end prices)/foreign exchange/special drawing rights in current dollars
Public debt
73.6% of GDP (2017 est.)
Note: Defined by the EU's Maastricht Treaty as consolidated general government gross debt at nominal value, outstanding at the end of the year in the following categories of government liabilities: currency and deposits, securities other than shares excluding financial derivatives, and loans; general government sector comprises the central, state, local government, and social security funds
Note: Defined by the EU's Maastricht Treaty as consolidated general government gross debt at nominal value, outstanding at the end of the year in the following categories of government liabilities: currency and deposits, securities other than shares excluding financial derivatives, and loans; general government sector comprises the central, state, local government, and social security funds
Unemployment rate
3.4% (2024 est.)
3.7% (2023 est.)
4.1% (2022 est.)
note: % of labor force seeking employment
3.7% (2023 est.)
4.1% (2022 est.)
note: % of labor force seeking employment
Taxes and other revenues
20.3% (of GDP) (2023 est.)
note: central government tax revenue as a % of GDP
note: central government tax revenue as a % of GDP
Real GDP (purchasing power parity)
$103.118 billion (2024 est.)
$101.503 billion (2023 est.)
$99.403 billion (2022 est.)
note: data in 2021 dollars
$101.503 billion (2023 est.)
$99.403 billion (2022 est.)
note: data in 2021 dollars
Inflation rate (consumer prices)
2% (2024 est.)
7.4% (2023 est.)
8.8% (2022 est.)
note: annual % change based on consumer prices
7.4% (2023 est.)
8.8% (2022 est.)
note: annual % change based on consumer prices
Current account balance
$3.231 billion (2024 est.)
$3.093 billion (2023 est.)
-$617.374 million (2022 est.)
note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
$3.093 billion (2023 est.)
-$617.374 million (2022 est.)
note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Real GDP per capita
$48,500 (2024 est.)
$47,900 (2023 est.)
$47,100 (2022 est.)
note: data in 2021 dollars
$47,900 (2023 est.)
$47,100 (2022 est.)
note: data in 2021 dollars
Imports
$54.583 billion (2024 est.)
$53.309 billion (2023 est.)
$55.158 billion (2022 est.)
note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
$53.309 billion (2023 est.)
$55.158 billion (2022 est.)
note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Exports
$59.159 billion (2024 est.)
$57.66 billion (2023 est.)
$56.51 billion (2022 est.)
note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
$57.66 billion (2023 est.)
$56.51 billion (2022 est.)
note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Real GDP growth rate
1.6% (2024 est.)
2.1% (2023 est.)
2.7% (2022 est.)
note: annual GDP % growth based on constant local currency
2.1% (2023 est.)
2.7% (2022 est.)
note: annual GDP % growth based on constant local currency
Industrial production growth rate
1.8% (2024 est.)
note: annual % change in industrial value added based on constant local currency
note: annual % change in industrial value added based on constant local currency
GDP - composition, by sector of origin
Agriculture: 1.5% (2024 est.)
Industry: 28.8% (2024 est.)
Services: 58.2% (2024 est.)
note: figures may not total 100% due to non-allocated consumption not captured in sector-reported data
Industry: 28.8% (2024 est.)
Services: 58.2% (2024 est.)
note: figures may not total 100% due to non-allocated consumption not captured in sector-reported data
Electricity access
Electrification - total population: 100% (2022 est.)
Coal
Production: 2.44 million metric tons (2023 est.)
Consumption: 2.309 million metric tons (2023 est.)
Exports: 2,000 metric tons (2023 est.)
Imports: 866,000 metric tons (2023 est.)
Proven reserves: 95 million metric tons (2023 est.)
Consumption: 2.309 million metric tons (2023 est.)
Exports: 2,000 metric tons (2023 est.)
Imports: 866,000 metric tons (2023 est.)
Proven reserves: 95 million metric tons (2023 est.)
Electricity generation sources
Fossil fuels: 24.6% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Nuclear: 35.2% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Solar: 6.7% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Hydroelectricity: 31.5% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Biomass and waste: 2% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Nuclear: 35.2% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Solar: 6.7% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Hydroelectricity: 31.5% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Biomass and waste: 2% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Natural gas
Production: 4.014 million cubic meters (2023 est.)
Consumption: 811.395 million cubic meters (2023 est.)
Exports: 11.387 million cubic meters (2018 est.)
Imports: 810.948 million cubic meters (2023 est.)
Consumption: 811.395 million cubic meters (2023 est.)
Exports: 11.387 million cubic meters (2018 est.)
Imports: 810.948 million cubic meters (2023 est.)
Petroleum
Total petroleum production: 4 bbl/day (2021 est.)
Refined petroleum consumption: 44,000 bbl/day (2024 est.)
Refined petroleum consumption: 44,000 bbl/day (2024 est.)
Electricity
Installed generating capacity: 4.739 million kW (2023 est.)
Consumption: 12.953 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Exports: 10.62 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Imports: 9.114 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Transmission/distribution losses: 774.138 million kWh (2023 est.)
Consumption: 12.953 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Exports: 10.62 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Imports: 9.114 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Transmission/distribution losses: 774.138 million kWh (2023 est.)
Internet users
Percent of population: 90% (2023 est.)
Internet country code
.si
Broadcast media
public TV broadcaster, Radiotelevizija Slovenija (RTV), operates a system of national and regional TV stations; 35 commercial TV stations; about 60% of households connected to multi-channel cable TV; public radio broadcaster with 3 national and 4 regional stations; more than 75 regional and local commercial and non-commercial radio stations
Telephones - mobile cellular
Total subscriptions: 2.73 million (2023 est.)
Subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 126 (2022 est.)
Subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 126 (2022 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions
Total: 683,000 (2023 est.)
Subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 32 (2023 est.)
Subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 32 (2023 est.)
Telephones - fixed lines
Total subscriptions: 647,000 (2023 est.)
Subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 30 (2023 est.)
Subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 30 (2023 est.)
Railways
Total: 1,207 km (2020) 609 km electrified
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix
S5
Airports
42 (2025)
Merchant marine
Total: 8 (2023)
By type: Other 8
By type: Other 8
Heliports
4 (2025)
Military service age and obligation
18-30 years of age for voluntary military service for men and women; must be a citizen of the Republic of Slovenia; recruits sign up for 3-, 5-, or 10-year service contracts; conscription abolished in 2003 (2023)
Note: As of 2023, women comprised about 16% of the military's full-time personnel
Note: As of 2023, women comprised about 16% of the military's full-time personnel
Military expenditures
2% of GDP (2025 est.)
1.4% of GDP (2024 est.)
1.3% of GDP (2023 est.)
1.3% of GDP (2022 est.)
1.2% of GDP (2021 est.)
1.4% of GDP (2024 est.)
1.3% of GDP (2023 est.)
1.3% of GDP (2022 est.)
1.2% of GDP (2021 est.)
Military and security forces
Slovenian Armed Forces (Slovenska Vojska, SV): structured as a combined force with air, land, maritime, and special operations components
Ministry of Interior: National Police (2025)
Ministry of Interior: National Police (2025)
Military - note
the Slovenian Armed Forces (Slovenska Vojska or SV) are responsible for the defense of the country’s sovereignty and territory, deterring external threats, and contributing to European security and other international peacekeeping missions; the SV is also active in civil-military cooperation, such as the maintenance of local infrastructure; Slovenia has been a member of the EU and NATO since 2004, and one of the SV’s key missions is fulfilling the country’s commitments to NATO, including equipment modernization, participating in training exercises, and contributing to NATO operations; the SV provides troops to NATO’s efforts to enhance its presence in the Baltics (Latvia) and Eastern Europe (Slovakia); it has also participated in other international security missions with small numbers of personnel in such places as Africa, southern Europe, the Mediterranean Sea, and the Middle East; NATO allies Hungary and Italy provide air policing for Slovenia
The SV was formally established in 1993 as a reorganization of the Slovenia Defense Force; the Defense Force, along with the Slovenian police, comprised the majority of the forces that engaged with the Yugoslav People’s Army during the 10-Day War after Slovenia declared its independence in 1991 (2025)
The SV was formally established in 1993 as a reorganization of the Slovenia Defense Force; the Defense Force, along with the Slovenian police, comprised the majority of the forces that engaged with the Yugoslav People’s Army during the 10-Day War after Slovenia declared its independence in 1991 (2025)
Military and security service personnel strengths
approximately 6,000 active military personnel (2025)
Military deployments
110 Kosovo (NATO); up to 200 Slovakia (NATO) (2025)
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions
the military's inventory is a mix of Soviet/Cold War-era and smaller quantities of more modern, mostly Western equipment; Slovenia is in the midst of a modernization program to replace its Soviet-era equipment with NATO-standard European and US systems (2025)
Refugees and internally displaced persons
Refugees: 13,369 (2024 est.)
IDPs: 10 (2023 est.)
Stateless persons: 10 (2024 est.)
IDPs: 10 (2023 est.)
Stateless persons: 10 (2024 est.)
Nuclear energy
Number of operational nuclear reactors: 1 (2025)
Net capacity of operational nuclear reactors: 0.7GW (2025 est.)
Percent of total electricity production: 36.8% (2023 est.)
Net capacity of operational nuclear reactors: 0.7GW (2025 est.)
Percent of total electricity production: 36.8% (2023 est.)
Geoparks
Total global geoparks and regional networks: 2
Global geoparks and regional networks: Idrija; Karawanken / Karavanke (includes Austria) (2023)
Global geoparks and regional networks: Idrija; Karawanken / Karavanke (includes Austria) (2023)
Ports
Total ports: 2 (2024)
Large: 0
Medium: 0
Small: 1
Very small: 1
Ports with oil terminals: 0
Key ports: Koper, Piran
Large: 0
Medium: 0
Small: 1
Very small: 1
Ports with oil terminals: 0
Key ports: Koper, Piran
Legislative branch - lower chamber
Chamber name: National Assembly (Drzavni Zbor)
Number of seats: 90 (all directly elected)
Electoral system: Proportional representation
Scope of elections: Full renewal
Term in office: 4 years
Most recent election date: 4/24/2022
Parties elected and seats per party: Freedom Movement (SVOBODA) (41); Slovenian Democratic Party (SDS) (27); New Slovenia - Christian Democrats (NSi) (8); Social Democrats (SD) (7); Left (LEVICA) (5); Other (2)
Percentage of women in chamber: 35.6%
Expected date of next election: April 2026
Number of seats: 90 (all directly elected)
Electoral system: Proportional representation
Scope of elections: Full renewal
Term in office: 4 years
Most recent election date: 4/24/2022
Parties elected and seats per party: Freedom Movement (SVOBODA) (41); Slovenian Democratic Party (SDS) (27); New Slovenia - Christian Democrats (NSi) (8); Social Democrats (SD) (7); Left (LEVICA) (5); Other (2)
Percentage of women in chamber: 35.6%
Expected date of next election: April 2026
Legislative branch - upper chamber
Chamber name: National Council (Drzavni Svet)
Number of seats: 40 (all indirectly elected)
Scope of elections: Full renewal
Term in office: 5 years
Most recent election date: 11/23/2022 to 11/24/2022
Percentage of women in chamber: 17.5%
Expected date of next election: November 2027
Note: The National Council is primarily an advisory body with limited legislative powers
Number of seats: 40 (all indirectly elected)
Scope of elections: Full renewal
Term in office: 5 years
Most recent election date: 11/23/2022 to 11/24/2022
Percentage of women in chamber: 17.5%
Expected date of next election: November 2027
Note: The National Council is primarily an advisory body with limited legislative powers
Methane emissions
Energy: 8.5 kt (2022-2024 est.)
Agriculture: 46.5 kt (2019-2021 est.)
Waste: 15.6 kt (2019-2021 est.)
Other: 1.9 kt (2019-2021 est.)
Agriculture: 46.5 kt (2019-2021 est.)
Waste: 15.6 kt (2019-2021 est.)
Other: 1.9 kt (2019-2021 est.)
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income
24.3 (2022 est.)
note: index (0-100) of income distribution; higher values represent greater inequality
note: index (0-100) of income distribution; higher values represent greater inequality