Slovenia has officially recognised Palestine as an independent state, joining a growing list of European nations making this significant diplomatic move. The Slovenian government’s decision was submitted for legislative approval last week, and the legislature has now passed the proposal with a substantial majority.
Slovenia’s recognition of Palestinian independence follows similar actions by three other European countries—Spain, Norway, and Ireland—on May 28. These recognitions aim to end the ongoing occupation and violence faced by Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank.
Slovenian Prime Minister Robert Golob expressed hope and solidarity with the Palestinian people, stating, “Today, by recognising the sovereignty and independence of Palestine, we have given hope to the people of the West Bank and Gaza.” This statement underscores Slovenia’s commitment to supporting Palestinian self-determination and peace in the region.
Despite this progress, there was opposition from the Slovenian Democratic Party (SDS), led by former Prime Minister Janez Janša. The SDS proposed that the issue be put to a public vote, arguing that this was not the most appropriate time to recognise Palestinian independence. However, the proposal was ultimately defeated in the legislature.
Slovenia’s decision aligns with other EU member states that have recognised Palestinian independence, including Sweden, Cyprus, Hungary, the Czech Republic, Poland, Slovakia, Romania, and Bulgaria. Malta is also considering recognising Palestine as an independent state, further isolating Israel on the international stage.
The main obstacle for many European countries in recognising Palestinian independence has been the strong influence of the United States, which staunchly supports Israel. Germany, one of the EU’s most powerful countries, has also refrained from recognising Palestinian statehood, largely due to pressure from the United States.
The recognition comes amid a severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Over the past six months, Israeli military actions have resulted in the deaths of 36,550 Palestinians, including 25,000 women and children trapped under rubble from destroyed buildings. The number of injured has risen to 82,959, and the United Nations reports that one million people in Gaza are now suffering from high temperatures and other severe conditions.
Slovenia’s recognition of Palestinian independence is a significant step in the international effort to support Palestinian rights and end the conflict. This move by Slovenia and other European nations represents a growing momentum towards recognising Palestinian sovereignty and seeking a peaceful resolution to the long-standing Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
