Ljubljana, 6 June 2024 (TDI): The Slovenian Parliament voted in favor of Palestinian statehood, recognizing it as an independent and sovereign state on 5th June 2024. This marks a significant milestone in the nation’s support of peace and stability in the Middle East.
The previous week, the Slovenian cabinet decided to officially recognize Palestine as an independent country. Resultantly, the decision was approved by a majority vote of 52-0. Following the voting in Ljubljana, the Palestinian flag was raised in front of the Slovenian parliament building.
The opposition party Slovenian Democratic Party (SDS) however, failed to postpone the decision by suggesting a consultative referendum. The proposal was given the go-ahead for a vote on Monday by the parliamentary committee. Ultimately, a resounding majority enforced the decision, hence confirming Slovenia’s stance on the issue.
Prime Minister Robert Golob hailed the vote, stating, “Today’s recognition of Palestine as a sovereign and independent state sends hope to the Palestinian people in the West Bank and Gaza. We stand in solidarity with their legitimate aspirations for statehood and an end to the conflict.”
Slovenia now stands alongside Sweden, Cyprus, Hungary, the Czech Republic, Poland, Slovakia, Romania, and Bulgaria as EU members that have acknowledged the existence of a Palestinian state. Malta has hinted that it would do the same soon.
Palestinian Occupation
The announcement of recognition comes amidst the ongoing crisis in Gaza, where Israel has been battling unarmed Palestinians since October 7. According to Gaza’s health authorities, during the last seven months, the conflict has claimed the lives of nearly 36,000 Palestinians.
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The world community has demanded an end to the bloodshed and a settlement to the crisis via negotiation. An important step in the direction of accomplishing this goal has been Europe’s recognition of Palestine as an independent state.
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