Maribor hosts new headquarters for Slovenian Ministry of Local Self-Government

The Ministry of Local Self-Government, Cohesion and Regional Development has officially opened its new headquarters in Maribor, marking a significant step in Slovenia’s decentralization efforts. The move, which formally transferred the ministry's seat from Ljubljana to Maribor in July, is described by Prime Minister Janez Janša as the “first spring swallow of Slovenian decentralization.”

Minister Monika Kirbiš Rojs stated that the relocation fulfills a coalition agreement to promote polycentric development by placing public institutions outside the capital. The new offices, located in the City business building on Vita Kraigher Street, currently accommodate 71 employees. The ministry maintains additional units in Ljubljana and Štanjel to ensure presence in both the Styria and Primorska regions.

Prime Minister Janša indicated that this relocation is merely the first step, with further transfers of ministerial seats and departments to other parts of the country expected to follow. Proponents suggest this policy will not only support regional growth but also alleviate traffic congestion and improve the quality of life in Ljubljana.