Slovenian Parliament to decide on three consultative referendums

The Slovenian National Assembly is set to decide on the scheduling of three consultative referendums, potentially slated for October 11. The proposed referendums cover the following topics:

• Linking social assistance eligibility for able-bodied individuals to socially beneficial work. • The abolition of the mandatory RTV (public broadcasting) contribution. • The voting rights of third-country nationals in local elections.

The proposals were submitted by several parliamentary groups, including SDS, NSi, SLS, Fokus, Democrats, and Resnica, and have received support from the government. Proponents argue these are key social issues that require public opinion.

However, the opposition has raised concerns regarding the legality and timing of these referendums. Specifically, critics argue that the referendum on voting rights for third-country nationals is legally questionable because the National Assembly had already passed changes to the local elections law earlier this term. Some opposition members suggest the Constitutional Court may need to intervene, while others claim the timing is a political attempt to mobilize right-wing voters.