On 4 March 2026, the Social Chamber of Slovenia organised a pre-election debate discuss the future of the country’s social services. The event took place at the Grand Plaza Hotel Ljubljana and gathered representatives of most political parties.

As the umbrella professional organisation for social welfare in Slovenia, the Social Chamber of Slovenia plays an important role in promoting dialogue between policymakers and practitioners. By organising this debate during the pre-election period, the Chamber aimed to ensure that social policy remains high on the political agenda and that political parties explain their priorities for the sector. 

“At the Social Chamber of Slovenia we firmly believe that a strong welfare state is the most important foundation of a successful and progressive society. Therefore, we offered the opportunity to present their programs and social policies to the highest representatives of political parties”. Suzi Kvas, Secretary General

The discussion focused on three central topics shaping the future of social services in Slovenia: the implementation of long-term care, the shortage of professionals in social care institutions and other human resources challenges, and broader perspectives for the development of the social welfare system in the coming years. These issues are particularly relevant as Slovenia faces demographic changes, increasing demand for services, and ongoing challenges in recruiting and retaining qualified staff in the sector.

Moderated by journalist Nataša Briški, the debate encouraged participants to present concrete proposals and commitments for addressing these challenges. The debate included contributions from representatives of the Freedom Movement, Social Democrats, The Left, Democrats, Nova Slovenija, the Party of Generations, and the Prerod movement. The Slovenian Democratic Party did not respond to the invitation to participate.

Across political lines, participants emphasised the importance of effectively implementing long-term care reforms and for targeted measures to tackle the workforce challenges. A number of speakers also highlighted the interlinkage of social policy with housing policy; the need to expand services in rural areas; or the focus on deinstitutionalisation, among others.  

The debate demonstrated that social welfare remains a key issue in Slovenia’s political landscape. Participants broadly agreed that the sector requires comprehensive and long-term policy responses, particularly to address staff shortages and increasing demand for long-term care.

Through this initiative, the Social Chamber of Slovenia reaffirmed its commitment to fostering dialogue between political leaders and professionals in the field. As the network representing public social services in Europe, ESN welcomes this initiative to convene policymakers and professionals to discuss priorities for the future of the sector.

The Social Chamber of Slovenia (SZSLO) is the professional association of social welfare in Slovenia. It was established in 1993 on the basis of the Social Welfare Act and on the initiative of a group of experts in the field. It operates as a non-political professional association that connects providers of social care activities of all fields and sectors.