Slovenia slashes ministries from 19 to 14 in sweeping reform
Slovenia’s National Assembly has approved a major government reform to cut the number of ministries from 19 to 14. The changes, pushed by Janez Janša’s Democratic Party (SDS), aim to streamline administration but have sparked concerns over weakened social protections. The bill passed easily, with 49 votes in favour and only four against.
The reform merges several key portfolios. Labour will now share a ministry with the economy and sport, while internal affairs combines with public administration. Infrastructure takes over energy policy, and education, science, and youth are grouped under a single department. A new ministry for demography, family, and social affairs will handle most social policies.
Supporters argue the changes will reduce bureaucracy and improve efficiency. However, critics warn that combining labour with the economy could shift focus toward business interests at the expense of workers’ rights. The two main centre-left parties abstained from voting, signalling unease with the plan. The vote strengthens Janša’s position to lead the next government. His coalition is expected to include New Slovenia (NSi) and the Democrats, with additional support from the Truth Party on key issues. The party’s leader, Zoran Stevanović, was also elected parliament speaker with backing from the Right.
The restructuring now moves forward, reducing ministries by five. Janša’s government will implement the changes, with coalition partners and case-by-case support ensuring a majority. The reforms will reshape how social, economic, and administrative policies are managed in the coming years.
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