Slovenian Constitutional Court to Hear Union Challenge to Intervention Law Referendum

Slovenia’s Constitutional Court scheduled a hearing on a union‑filed request to review the constitutionality of the parliamentary decision that blocks a popular referendum on the country’s Intervention Law. The law, approved by the National Assembly on 11 May, introduced measures such as reduced VAT on basic food and energy, and tax and social‑security relief for small businesses, amid an energy‑crisis.

Trade unions argue the law was adopted without social dialogue and infringes on workers’ rights, touching areas like labour contracts, pension reform and health legislation. In early June, more than 47,000 voters signed a petition for a post‑legislative referendum, but parliament rejected it by adopting a ruling that deemed the referendum unlawful because the law contains tax provisions. Unions have now asked the court to determine whether the ban itself violates the constitution. The hearing may not be concluded on the same day.