GOVSI podkast

Ob mednarodnem prazniku dela je 40. epizoda GOVSI podkasta posvečena razmisleku o pomenu delavskih pravic nekoč in danes. Gostja, dolgoletna sindikalistka Lidija Jerkič, je opozorila, da pravice delavcev niso samoumevne, temveč rezultat dolgoletnega boja in prizadevanj.Praznik dela, ki ga obeležujemo 1. maja, ima korenine v delavskih protestih za osemurni delovnik v Chicagu leta 1886. Danes, več kot stoletje kasneje, ostaja simbol prizadevanj za dostojne delovne pogoje. Kot je poudarila Jerkičeva, se razmere sicer spreminjajo, a temeljno sporočilo ostaja enako: »Nič ni podarjeno, vse je priborjeno – in zelo hitro tudi izgubljeno.« Sindikati imajo po njenem mnenju še vedno ključno vlogo pri zastopanju interesov zaposlenih in sodelovanju v socialnem dialogu. V Sloveniji ta poteka tudi v okviru Ekonomsko-socialnega sveta, kjer sodelujejo predstavniki vlade, delodajalcev in delojemalcev. Kakovosten socialni dialog je po besedah sogovornice eden od temeljev stabilne in pravične družbe, ob tem je poudarila, da se v mandatu aktualne vlade socialni dialog zelo okrepil. Gostja je opozorila tudi na pomen ustrezne zakonodaje, kot je minimalna plača, ki po njenem mnenju postane nujna, kadar socialni dialog ne deluje dovolj učinkovito. Ob tem je izpostavila, da ima Slovenija razmeroma dobro pravno ureditev, vendar se težave pojavljajo pri njenem izvajanju.Ob zaključku je gostja poudarila pomen solidarnosti: »Posameznik sam težko stoji, skupaj pa je lažje. Pomembno je, da se ljudje zavedajo svojih pravic in jih tudi uveljavljajo.« Epizoda spodbuja razmislek o tem, kakšno družbo želimo graditi in kakšno mesto ima v njej delo – danes in v prihodnje.Vabljeni k ogledu in poslušanju. [ENGLISH VERSION] Government Podcast GOVSI: On May Day about the importance of workers’ rights, social dialogue and the challenges of the modern labour marketOn the occasion of International Workers’ Day, the 40th episode of the government GOVSI podcast is dedicated to reflecting on the importance of workers’ rights in the past and today. The guest - long-time trade unionist Lidija Jerkič - stressed that workers’ rights are not self-evident, but the result of long-term struggle and effort.Labour Day, celebrated on 1 May, has its roots in workers’ protests for the eight-hour workday in Chicago in 1886. Today, more than a century later, it remains a symbol of the fight for decent working conditions. As Jerkič pointed out, while circumstances change, the core message remains the same: “Nothing is given, everything is fought for – and it can be lost very quickly.”In her view, trade unions still play a key role in representing employees’ interests and participating in social dialogue. In Slovenia, this also takes place within the framework of the Economic and Social Council, which brings together representatives of the government, employers and employees. According to the guest, high-quality social dialogue is one of the foundations of a stable and fair society, and she emphasised that it has significantly strengthened during the current government’s term.The guest also highlighted the importance of appropriate legislation, such as the minimum wage, which becomes necessary when social dialogue does not function effectively. She noted that Slovenia has relatively well-developed labour legislation, but that problems often arise in its implementation.In conclusion, the guest emphasised the importance of solidarity: “An individual can hardly stand alone, but together it is easier. It is important that people are aware of their rights and also exercise them.”The episode encourages reflection on the kind of society we want to build and the place of work within it – today and in the future.You are invited to watch and listen.<

Ob 23. aprilu, svetovnem dnevu knjige, je bila v ospredju pogovora z državno sekretarko Vesno Humar razprava o pomenu branja v sodobni družbi. Ta dan, ki ga je Unesco simbolično povezal z obletnicama smrti Williama Shakespeara in Miguela de Cervantesa, opozarja na izjemno vlogo knjige pri razvoju posameznika in družbe.V najnovejši epizodi GOVSI podkasta je gostja poudarila, da knjige niso le vir znanja, temveč prostor domišljije, razmisleka in osebne rasti. Branje po njenem mnenju ni pasivna dejavnost, temveč aktivno ustvarjanje notranjih svetov, ki krepi sposobnost razumevanja kompleksnih družbenih vprašanj.Poseben poudarek je bil namenjen vlogi branja pri razvoju kritičnega mišljenja, zlasti med mladimi. V času hitrih in pogosto površinskih informacij branje daljših in zahtevnejših besedil omogoča poglobljeno razumevanje ter odpornost proti dezinformacijam.Leto 2026 je posvečeno pesniku Srečku Kosovelu in pisateljici Zofki Kveder, kar dodatno poudarja pomen literature za slovensko kulturno identiteto. Takšna obeleževanja krepijo zavedanje o bogati literarni dediščini ter spodbujajo razmislek o sodobnih družbenih vprašanjih, vključno z vlogo žensk v literaturi.Knjiga ostaja tudi ključna vez med Slovenci v zamejstvu in po svetu. Dostop do sodobnih slovenskih vsebin, zlasti v digitalni obliki, je pomemben za ohranjanje jezika, kulture in občutka pripadnosti.Ob svetovnem dnevu knjige tako ostaja jasno sporočilo: branje ni le osebna izbira, temveč naložba v znanje, kulturo in prihodnost družbe.Vabljeni k poslušanju na vseh priljubljenih platformah za podkaste ter na YouTube kanalu Vlade Republike Slovenije.[ENGLISH VERSION]World Book Day: Reading as a Foundation of Critical Thinking and Cultural IdentityOn 23 April, World Book Day, the discussion with State Secretary Vesna Humar focused on the importance of reading in contemporary society. The day, symbolically linked by UNESCO to the anniversaries of the deaths of William Shakespeare and Miguel de Cervantes, highlights the exceptional role of books in the development of both individuals and society.In the latest episode of the GOVSI podcast, State Secretary Vesna Humar emphasised that books are not only a source of knowledge, but also a space for imagination, reflection, and personal growth. In her view, reading is not a passive activity, but an active process of creating inner worlds that strengthens our ability to understand complex social issues.Particular emphasis was placed on the role of reading in developing critical thinking, especially among young people. In a time of fast and often superficial information, reading longer and more demanding texts enables deeper understanding and greater resilience to disinformation.The year 2026 is dedicated to poet Srečko Kosovel and writer Zofka Kveder, further underlining the importance of literature for Slovenia’s cultural identity. Such commemorations strengthen awareness of the country’s rich literary heritage and encourage reflection on contemporary social issues, including the role of women in literature.Books also remain a key link for Slovenians living abroad. Access to modern Slovenian content, especially in digital form, is essential for preserving language, culture, and a sense of belonging.On World Book Day, the message is clear: reading is not just a personal choice, but an investment in knowledge, culture, and the future of society.You are invited to listen to the conversation on all major podcast platforms and on the YouTube channel of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia.

V novi epizodi GOVSI podkasta je naš gost ameriški strokovnjak za medijsko zakonodajo Michael M. Epstein, ki opozarja na vpliv dezinformacij na demokracijo, zlasti pred volitvami.Profesor Epstein poudarja, da so zanesljive informacije temelj demokracije, in izpostavlja razliko med dezinformacijami (z namenom zavajanja) in napačnimi informacijami. V času družbenih omrežij in umetne inteligence je po njegovih besedah vse težje preveriti verodostojnost informacij.Kot rešitev predlaga koncept informacijske suverenosti – pomembno ni le, kaj je vsebina informacije, ampak predvsem od kod prihaja, kdo je vir informacije. Državljanom svetuje, naj postanejo kritični, odgovorni uporabniki informacij in naj vedno preverijo vir, še posebej pred volitvami.Epizoda ponuja ključne vpoglede v enega največjih izzivov sodobne družbe – kako zaščititi demokracijo v času motenj informacijskega kaosa.Vabljeni k poslušanju pogovora na vseh priljubljenih platformah za podkaste ter na YouTube kanalu Vlade Republike Slovenije.[ENGLISH VERSION]GOVSI Podcast: No Democracy Without Reliable InformationIn the latest episode of the GOVSI podcast, the guest is Michael M. Epstein, a U.S. expert in media law, who highlights the impact of disinformation on democracy, especially in the run-up to elections.He emphasizes that reliable information is the foundation of democracy and points out the difference between disinformation (intentional deception) and misinformation. In the age of social media and artificial intelligence, he notes, it is becoming increasingly difficult to verify the credibility of information.As a solution, he proposes the concept of information sovereignty – what matters is not only the content of information, but also its origin. He advises citizens to become critical and responsible consumers of information and to always verify sources, particularly before elections.The episode offers key insights into one of the biggest challenges of modern society – how to protect democracy in an era of information chaos.You are invited to listen to the conversation on all major podcast platforms and on the YouTube channel of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia.

V tokratni epizodi GOVSI podkasta je naš gost Tomaž Petek, generalni direktor Geodetske uprave Republike Slovenije (GURS). Z voditeljico Petro Prešeren Golob razkrivata, kako GURS upravlja ključne prostorske evidence – od katastra nepremičnin do podatkov o stavbah. Petek pojasni, zakaj so natančni geodetski podatki temelj urejenega prostora in zaupanja v pravni sistem.Geodetska uprava vodi ključne državne evidence, med njimi kataster nepremičnin, evidence stavb, hišnih številk, državne meje in številne prostorske podatkovne zbirke. Za upravljanje več milijonov podatkovnih zapisov skrbi več kot 450 zaposlenih, ki zagotavljajo zanesljive informacije o prostoru in nepremičninah. GURS skrbi tudi za razvoj sodobnih prostorskih podatkov.Slovenija je med državami, ki so zgodaj začele sistematično digitalizirati prostorske evidence in odpirati podatke javnosti. »Upal bi si trditi, da smo tukaj kar med pionirji, kar se tiče prehoda iz papirja v digitalni svet«. S tem Slovenija na področju geodetskih podatkov in digitalizacije pogosto sledi najsodobnejšim praksam – in jih tudi soustvarja. Na vprašanje, ali na tem področju držimo korak z najboljšimi v svetu, Petek odgovarja: »Če sem malo neskromen, bi temu kar pritrdil.«Geodetska uprava je vključena tudi v številne mednarodne organizacije in sodelovanja, slovenski strokovnjaki pa aktivno sodelujejo pri razvoju evropskih standardov na področju geodetskih in prostorskih podatkov.Urejene evidence pa niso pomembne le za državo, temveč predvsem za lastnike nepremičnin. Petek ob tem opozarja, da lastnina ni samoumevna, temveč zahteva aktivno skrb. »Ključno sporočilo bi bilo, da je za lastnino treba nekaj narediti. Ni samo po sebi umevno, da bo naša lastnina ustrezno zavarovana.«Vabljeni k poslušanju pogovora na vseh priljubljenih platformah za podkaste ter na YouTube kanalu Vlade Republike Slovenije.[ENGLISH VERSION]Surveying and Mapping Authority of the Republic of Slovenia: Data That Defines Space and OwnershipThe Surveying and Mapping Authority of the Republic of Slovenia manages several core national registers, including the real estate cadastre, building registers, house number records, state border records, and numerous spatial data databases. More than 450 employees are responsible for managing millions of data records, ensuring reliable information about space and real estate.GURS is also responsible for the development of modern spatial data systems. Slovenia is among the countries that began systematically digitizing spatial records and opening data to the public at an early stage. “I would even dare to say that we are among the pioneers when it comes to the transition from paper to the digital world.”As a result, Slovenia often follows the most advanced practices in geodetic data management and digitalisation—and helps shape them as well. When asked whether Slovenia keeps pace with the world’s best in this field, Petek responds: “If I may be a little immodest, I would say yes.” The Surveying and Mapping Authority is also involved in numerous international organisations and collaborations, with Slovenian experts actively contributing to the development of European standards in geodetic and spatial data.Well-maintained registers are not only important for the state but above all for property owners. Petek emphasizes that ownership is not self-evident and requires active responsibility: “The key message would be that ownership requires action. It is not self-evident that our property will be properly protected.”You are invited to listen to the conversation on all major podcast platforms and on the YouTube channel of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia.

Državna volilna komisija (DVK) se intenzivno pripravlja na parlamentarne volitve, ki bodo 22. marca 2026. Za nemoteno izvedbo volitev je predvideno sodelovanje približno 20.000 ljudi na skoraj 3000 voliščih po vsej Sloveniji, kar predstavlja največjo civilno akcijo v državi. V vladnem GOVSI podkastu je predsednik DVK Igor Zorčič poudaril, da je zaupanje v volilne postopke temelj legitimnosti izvoljene oblasti. »Zaupanje v volilne postopke generira zaupanje v volilni izid, zaupanje v izid pa legitimnost oblasti. Delo volilnih organov je zato izjemno pomembno.« Vse državljane je povabil, naj se volitev udeležijo v čim večjem številu, saj s tem prispevajo k legitimnosti in stabilnosti naše demokracije.Priprave so se začele z analizo izvedbe preteklih volitev in referendumov. Poseben poudarek je bil namenjen izboljšavam postopkov, ki jih je mogoče uvesti brez spremembe zakonodaje. DVK kot izvajalski organ skrbi za natančno in transparentno uporabo veljavnih pravil ter za dodatna navodila, kjer je to potrebno.Z voditeljico Petro Bezjak Cirman sta se pogovarjala tudi o morebitnih napakah. Pojasnil je, da do napak sicer lahko pride zaradi obsega dela in velikega števila vpletenih v volilni proces. Ključno za zaupanje je, da volilna pravila vsebujejo tudi varovalke in pravna sredstva za primer nepravilnosti. Teh je več (na primer pritožbe zoper delo volilnih organov), čeprav si na DVK želijo, da jih ne bi bilo treba uporabljati. Dodatno varovalo pa predstavlja pluralna sestava volilnih organov, ki omogoča medsebojni nadzor različnih deležnikov.Vabljeni k ogledu pogovora na YouTube kanalu Vlade Republike Slovenije.[ENGLISH VERSION]Elections – The Largest Civic Operation in the CountryThe National Election Commission (NEC) is intensively preparing for the parliamentary elections to be held on 22 March 2026. To ensure the smooth conduct of the elections, approximately 20,000 people will be engaged at nearly 3000 polling stations across Slovenia, making this the largest civic operation in the country. In the government GOVSI podcast, President Igor Zorčič emphasized that trust in electoral procedures is the foundation of the legitimacy of elected authority. »Trust in electoral procedures generates trust in the election result, and trust in the result generates the legitimacy of authority. The work of electoral bodies is therefore extremely important.« He invited all citizens to participate in the elections in as great numbers as possible, as this contributes to the legitimacy and stability of Slovenia’s democracy.Preparations began with an analysis of the implementation of previous elections and referendums. Special emphasis was placed on procedural improvements that can be introduced without legislative amendments. As the implementing authority, the NEC ensures the precise and transparent application of existing rules and provides additional instructions where necessary.In conversation with host Petra Bezjak Cirman, Zorčič also addressed the possibility of errors. He explained that errors can occur due to the scope of the work and the large number of people involved in the electoral process. What is crucial for maintaining trust is that electoral rules include safeguards and legal remedies in cases of irregularities. There are several such mechanisms (for instance appeals against the work of electoral bodies), although NEC hopes they will not need to be used. An additional safeguard is the plural composition of electoral bodies, which enables mutual oversight among different stakeholders.You are invited to watch the conversation on the YouTube channel of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia. 

Pred zimskimi olimpijskimi igrami Milano–Cortina 2026 smo v vladnem GOVSI podkastu gostili Blaža Perka, vodjo slovenske olimpijske reprezentance, in Matica Švaba, poslovnega direktorja Olimpijskega komiteja Slovenije (OKS).Navijači kot nevidna energija športnikovNa zimskih olimpijskih igrah bo Slovenijo predvidoma zastopalo okoli 38 športnic in športnikov v šestih panogah. Po besedah Blaža Perka so pričakovanja visoka, zlasti v smučarskih skokih, kjer slovenska ekipa v letošnji sezoni dosega vrhunske rezultate. Ena od prednosti letošnjih iger je njihova bližina Sloveniji. To omogoča številnim navijačem, da športnike podprejo v živo. »Navijači dajejo tisto nevidno dodatno energijo, ki pa jo športniki še kako čutijo,« je poudaril Perko in dodal, da je prav domača podpora lahko odločilen dejavnik v boju za odličja.Slovenska hiša – prostor povezovanja in promocijeMilano–Cortina bodo prve zimske olimpijske igre z izrazito razpršenimi prizorišči, kar je velik logistični izziv. Kljub temu slovenska reprezentanca verjame, da bo organizacija omogočila optimalne pogoje za nastope športnikov na vseh prizoriščih. Pomemben del slovenskega olimpijskega nastopa bo tudi Slovenska hiša v Cortini d’Ampezzo. Matic Švab je poudaril, da bo hiša odprta za javnost in bo delovala kot stičišče športa, gospodarstva, turizma, kulture in diplomacije. Pod znamko I feel Slovenia bo predstavljala Slovenijo v malem ter ponujala prostor za dogodke, srečanja in navijanje.Športniki kot najboljši ambasadorji SlovenijeSlovenska hiša bo gostila številne delegacije, poslovne dogodke in obiske uglednih gostov, pomembno vlogo pa bo imela tudi ambasadorka hiše Tina Maze. Olimpijske igre so tako priložnost ne le za športne uspehe, temveč tudi za krepitev prepoznavnosti Slovenije v svetu.Epizodo si lahko ogledate na vladnem YouTube kanalu.[ENGLISH VERSION]Olympic Games Milan–Cortina: Sport, Fans and the Slovenian House as Slovenia in MiniatureAhead of the Milan–Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games, the Government GOVSI Podcast hosted Blaž Perko, Head of the Slovenian Olympic Team, and Matic Švab, Managing Director of the Slovenian Olympic Committee.Fans as the Invisible Energy of AthletesAt the Winter Olympic Games, Slovenia is expected to be represented by around 38 female and male athletes across six sports disciplines. According to team leader Blaž Perko, expectations are high, particularly in ski jumping, where the Slovenian team has been achieving top results this season. Competitions will begin in the very first days after the opening ceremony, meaning Slovenian athletes will quickly be in contention for the highest places. One of the advantages of this year’s Games is their proximity to Slovenia, allowing many fans to support the athletes in person. »Fans provide that invisible extra energy which athletes can truly feel,« Perko emphasised, adding that home support can be a decisive factor in the fight for medals.The Slovenian House – A Hub for Connection and PromotionAn important part of Slovenia’s Olympic presence will also be the Slovenian House in Cortina d’Ampezzo. Matic Švab highlighted that the House will be open to the public and will serve as a meeting point for sport, business, tourism, culture and diplomacy. Under the I feel Slovenia brand, it will present Slovenia in miniature and provide a space for events, meetings and cheering.Athletes as Slovenia’s Best AmbassadorsThe Slovenian House will host numerous delegations, business events and visits by distinguished guests, with a special role played by the House’s ambassador, Tina Maze. The Olympic Games thus represent an opportunity for sporting success, and also a chance to further strengthen Slovenia’s international visibility.You can watch the episode on YouTube.

V novi epizodi GOVSI podkasta smo se posvetili enemu najzahtevnejših in hkrati najpomembnejših obdobij slovenske zunanje politike – dvoletnemu mandatu Slovenije kot nestalne članice Varnostnega sveta Organizacije združenih narodov. V studiu se je voditeljici Poloni Prešeren pridružil stalni predstavnik Republike Slovenije pri OZN, veleposlanik Samuel Žbogar, ki je v poglobljenem pogovoru osvetlil, kaj je v praksi pomenilo sodelovanje v organu, kjer so se sprejemale odločitve o najtežjih vprašanjih miru in varnosti v svetu.Mandat Slovenije je potekal v času izjemno zaostrenih globalnih razmer, ki so jih zaznamovali konflikti v Ukrajini, Gazi in Sudanu ter številne druge, pogosto spregledane krize. Veleposlanik Žbogar je pojasnil, kako je Slovenija kot majhna država, a z jasno izoblikovanimi stališči in vrednotami, aktivno sodelovala pri razpravah, oblikovanju pobud in iskanju rešitev, tudi v okoliščinah, ko Varnostni svet zaradi globokih političnih razhajanj ni bil zmožen sprejemati odločitev. Poseben poudarek je namenil načelnosti slovenskih nastopov, doslednemu zagovarjanju mednarodnega prava, zaščite civilnega prebivalstva in odgovornosti do mednarodne skupnosti, tudi takrat, ko ta stališča niso bila najlažja ali politično najbolj udobna.Pogovor je razkril tudi zakulisje diplomatskega dela v New Yorku, pomen usklajenega delovanja med Ljubljano in stalno misijo pri OZN ter povezovalno vlogo Slovenije kot med zahodnimi državami in t. i. svetovnim jugom. Prav ta sposobnost poslušanja in razumevanja različnih pogledov je Sloveniji prinesla ugled odgovorne in zaupanja vredne članice Varnostnega sveta, kar so ob zaključku mandata potrdile tudi številne pohvale.Epizoda je na voljo na vseh priljubljenih platformah za podkaste ter na YouTube kanalu Vlade Republike Slovenije.[ENGLISH VERSION]Ambassador Žbogar: Principled Action Defined Slovenia’s Membership in the UN Security CouncilIn the new episode of the GOVSI podcast, we focused on one of the most demanding and at the same time most significant periods of Slovenian foreign policy – Slovenia’s two-year term as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council. Host Polona Prešeren was joined in the studio by Slovenia’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Samuel Žbogar, who in an in-depth discussion shed light on what participation in a body where decisions on the most critical issues of global peace and security are made meant in practice.Slovenia’s mandate took place during a period of exceptionally strained global circumstances, marked by conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza and Sudan, as well as numerous other often overlooked crises. Ambassador Žbogar explained how Slovenia, as a small country but one with clearly defined positions and values, actively participated in debates, initiatives and the search for solutions, even in situations where deep political divisions prevented the Security Council from reaching decisions. He placed particular emphasis on the principled nature of Slovenia’s positions, its consistent advocacy of international law, the protection of civilians and responsibility towards the international community, including at times when such positions were neither the easiest nor the most politically comfortable.The conversation also revealed the behind-the-scenes aspects of diplomatic work in New York, the importance of close coordination between Ljubljana and Slovenia’s Permanent Mission to the UN, and a bridge-builder Slovenia’s role between Western countries and the so-called Global South. This ability to listen to and understand different perspectives earned Slovenia a reputation as a responsible and trustworthy member of the Security Council, as confirmed by numerous commendations at the conclusion of its mandate.The episode is available on all major podcast platforms and on the YouTube channel of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia.

V najnovejši epizodi podkasta GOVSI nadaljujemo s temo dezinformacij in informacijske vojne. Tokratni gost je Mykhailo Dankanych, ukrajinski veteran in strokovnjak za boj proti ruskim dezinformacijam, ki opozarja, da se informacijska fronta ne odvija le v Ukrajini, temveč tudi znotraj Evropske unije. V pogovoru z voditeljem Zoranom Potičem gost pojasni, da informacijska vojna ni ločen pojav, temveč del širše kognitivne vojne, katere cilj je širjenje kaosa, nezaupanja in razkrajanje družbene kohezije.Priče kot najmočnejši odgovor na lažne narativeDankanych izpostavi, da je eden najbolj učinkovitih načinov boja proti dezinformacijam pogovor z ljudmi, ki so dogodke doživeli na lastni koži. Svoje delo povezuje s projektom To Break the Fake, v okviru katerega zbira pričevanja nekdanjih ukrajinskih vojnih ujetnikov. Po njegovih besedah so prav njihove izkušnje ključne za razumevanje, kako se ruski narativi gradijo in utrjujejo skozi leta. Ruski narativi v Evropi in tudi v SlovenijiGost poudari, da Rusija informacijsko deluje tudi v evropskem medijskem prostoru. Njegova ekipa spremlja medije v različnih državah EU in išče značilne propagandne fraze, ki se ponavljajo v proruskih narativih. Med najnovejše analizirane države uvrščajo tudi Slovenijo, kjer so zaznali več virov, ki širijo ruske dezinformacijske vzorce.»Dezinformacij ni mogoče premagati — se pa moramo upirati«Pomembno sporočilo epizode je, da dezinformacij ni mogoče v celoti odpraviti, saj se bodo z razvojem tehnologije in umetne inteligence širile še hitreje. Kljub temu je, kot poudarja Dankanych, ključno vztrajati: izobraževati, preverjati vire in krepiti kritično mišljenje že pri otrocih. Epizodo zaključi s pozivom: »Bodite skeptični.«Pogovor si lahko ogledate na YouTube kanalu Vlade Republike Slovenije.[ENGLISH VERSION]On Disinformation in Russia's War against UkraineIn the latest episode of the GOVSI podcast our guest is Mykhailo Dankanych, a Ukrainian veteran and expert in countering Russian disinformation, who warns that the information front is not taking place only in Ukraine, but also within the European Union.In conversation with host Zoran Potič, the guest explains that information warfare is not an isolated phenomenon, but part of a broader cognitive war, aimed at spreading chaos, distrust and undermining social cohesion.Witnesses as the strongest response to false narrativesDankanych highlights that one of the most effective ways to fight disinformation is to speak with people who have experienced events first-hand. He connects his work to the project To Break the Fake, through which he collects testimonies from former Ukrainian prisoners of war. According to him, their experiences are essential for understanding how Russian narratives are constructed and reinforced over time.Russian narratives in Europe—and in Slovenia as wellThe guest emphasises that Russia also operates in the European media space. His team monitors media outlets across various EU countries, searching for recurring propaganda phrases that appear in pro-Russian narratives. Among the most recently analysed countries is Slovenia, where they have identified several sources spreading patterns typical of Russian disinformation.»Disinformation cannot be defeated — but we must resist«A key message of the episode is that disinformation cannot be completely eliminated, as it will spread even faster with the development of technology and artificial intelligence. Nevertheless, as Dankanych stresses, it is essential to persist: to educate, verify sources and strengthen critical thinking from an early age. He concludes the episode with a simple call: »Be sceptical.«You can watch the episode on YouTube.

V 32. epizodi GOVSI podkasta je voditeljica Polona Prešeren gostila Simona Anholta, britanskega svetovalca, raziskovalca in avtorja ter utemeljitelja termina nation brand (angleško znamka države). Pogovor v angleškem jeziku je bil posvečen ugledu držav, javnim zaznavam ter strateškemu razmišljanju o tem, kako se države uveljavljajo v mednarodnem okolju.Anholt je poudaril, da je nacionalna podoba veliko več kot promocija turizma ali odnosi z javnostmi. Gre za področje, ki vključuje ekonomijo, mednarodno pravo, mir in varnost, zgodovino, geografijo in kulturo. Ljudje realnost doživljamo skozi zaznave, zato imajo te enako težo kot dejstva. Raziskave kažejo močno povezanost med podobo države in njenim uspehom pri turizmu, investicijah, izvozu ter diplomaciji.Analiza skoraj milijarde podatkov v raziskavi Anholt Nation Brands Index kaže, da države z najboljšimi podobami niso nujno najbogatejše ali najmočnejše, temveč tiste, za katere javnost verjame, da pozitivno prispevajo svetu zunaj svojih meja. V tem kontekstu je posebej izpostavil Slovenijo, ki je v zadnji izdaji Good Country Indexa zasedla 8. , Estonija pa 9. mesto, kar je po njegovi oceni izjemen dosežek za tako majhni državi.V razpravi o znamki I feel Slovenia je Anholt poudaril pomen doslednosti: znamke se ne menja pogosto, ker se javnost nanjo naveže skozi dolgoročno ponavljanje. Logotipi in slogani niso odločilni sami po sebi, temveč so učinkoviti, ko odražajo skupne cilje in avtentično ravnanje države.Vabljeni k ogledu in poslušanju epizode podkasta![ENGLISH VERSION]Simon Anholt in the GOVSI podcast: A country’s reputation is built by actions, not advertisingIn the 32nd episode of the GOVSI podcast, hosted by Polona Prešeren, we welcomed Simon Anholt – a British advisor, researcher and author, and the originator of the term nation brand. The conversation, held in English, focused on the reputation of countries, public perceptions, and strategic thinking about how nations establish themselves in the international environment.Anholt stressed that a country’s image is far more than tourism promotion or public relations. It is a field that encompasses economics, international law, peace and security, history, geography and culture. People experience reality through perceptions, which is why perceptions carry the same weight as facts. Research shows a strong link between a country’s image and its performance in tourism, investment, exports and diplomacy.An analysis of nearly a billion data points in the Anholt Nation Brands Index shows that countries with the best reputations are not necessarily the richest or most powerful, but those that the public believes contribute positively to the world beyond their borders. In this context, he highlighted Slovenia in particular. In the latest edition of the Good Country Index, Slovenia ranked 8th and Estonia 9th – an outstanding achievement for two such small countries, in his view.Discussing the I feel Slovenia brand, Anholt underlined the importance of consistency: a brand should not be changed frequently, because the public connects with it through long-term repetition. Logos and slogans are not decisive on their own, but they become effective when they reflect shared goals and authentic national behaviour.The GOVSI podcast is available on all major podcast platforms and on the YouTube channel of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia.

V novi epizodi vladnega GOVSI podkasta je finančni minister Klemen Boštjančič spregovoril o sprejetih proračunih za leti 2026 in 2027, ključnih prioritetah vlade ter izvedenih reformah, ki po njegovih besedah krepijo finančno stabilnost in razvoj države.Minister je izpostavil, da med osrednje prioritete vlade sodijo vlaganja v zdravstvo, izobraževanje, raziskave in stanovanjsko politiko, saj gre za področja, ki so bila v preteklosti povsem zapostavljena. Poudaril je, da vlada vodi vzdržno fiskalno politiko, ki omogoča investicije v dolgoročni razvoj – od gradnje novih fakultet do največjega podatkovnega centra v državi.Ponosen je, da je vladi uspelo vsako leto doseči dogovor z občinami o povprečnini, letos v višini 835 evrov, ter izvesti nekatere ključne reforme: od reforme plačnega sistema v javnem sektorju do pokojninske reforme in vzpostavitve sistema dolgotrajne oskrbe.Ob tem je izpostavil, da so tudi zato vse večje bonitetne agencije v zadnjem letu zvišale oceno Slovenije.Dotaknil se je tudi naraščajočih izdatkov za varnost, ki jih vidi kot nujo v spremenjenih globalnih razmerah, ter razkril, da so mu kitajski vlagatelji ob obisku predlagali izdajo tako imenovane »Luka Dončić obveznice«.Vabljeni k ogledu in poslušanju epizode podkasta![ENGLISH VERSION]Minister Boštjančič: »Investments in knowledge, health and security are investments in the future«In the latest episode of the government GOVSI podcast, Minister of Finance Klemen Boštjančič presented the adopted state budgets for 2026 and 2027, the government’s key development priorities and the implemented reforms that contribute to strengthening Slovenia’s financial stability and long-term development.The Minister underlined that the government’s main priorities include investments in healthcare, education, research and housing policy, as these are areas that had been significantly neglected in the past. He emphasized that the government is pursuing a responsible fiscal policy that enables investments in sustainable development – from the construction of new university faculties to the establishment of the country’s largest data centre.Minister Boštjančič expressed satisfaction that the government has reached agreements with municipalities on the level of per capita funding (povprečnina) each year of its mandate, amounting to EUR 835 for the next period, and that it has implemented several key reforms, including the public sector pay reform, the pension reform and the introduction of the long-term care system.He noted that these efforts have also been recognised internationally, as all major credit rating agencies upgraded Slovenia’s rating over the past year, confirming the country’s fiscal stability and credibility.The Minister also referred to increased security-related expenditures, which he described as a necessity in light of changing global circumstances. During his recent visit to China, he said, investors even suggested issuing a »Luka Dončić bond«, illustrating Slovenia’s growing visibility and positive reputation abroad.Tune in on your favourite platform to listen or watch the episode of podcast and enjoy the experience!

V najnovejši epizodi vladnega GOVSI podkasta se voditelj Zoran Potič pogovarja z Mario Giovanno Sessa iz organizacije EU DisinfoLab, ki že vrsto let preučuje vpliv dezinformacijskih kampanj in spodbuja krepitve odpornosti proti manipulativnim vsebinam v digitalnem okolju.Dezinformacije kot orodje vplivanjaGostja pojasni, da dezinformacije niso zgolj »lažne novice«, temveč premišljeno ustvarjene in razširjene informacije z zlonamernim namenom zavajanja javnosti. Njihov cilj je spodkopavanje zaupanja v demokratične procese, institucije in medsebojno solidarnost. Posebej nevarne so, ker pogosto vsebujejo zrno resnice, ki jim daje prepričljivost.Ruske kampanje in globalne taktikeV pogovoru se sogovornika dotakneta obsežnih raziskav o ruski dezinformacijski operaciji Doppelgänger, v kateri so bile klonirane spletne strani znanih evropskih medijev, da bi širile proruske narative. Kampanja, ki še vedno traja, kaže, kako prefinjene in organizirane so takšne operacije ter kako težko jih je popolnoma odstraniti iz digitalnega prostora.Svoboda govora in odgovornost platformSessa poudarja, da boj proti dezinformacijam ne pomeni cenzure, temveč zaščito svobode izražanja in pravice do resničnih informacij. »Svoboda govora ni svoboden doseg,« opozarja. Ključno orodje pri tem je Zakon o digitalnih storitvah (angleško Digital Services Act - DSA), ki v Evropski uniji vzpostavlja večjo preglednost in odgovornost spletnih platform.Potrebna je skupna odpornostDezinformacije so postale stalnica sodobnega informacijsko-družbenega okolja, zato jih je treba obravnavati sistematično. Kot pravi gostja, »moramo biti pripravljeni ne le na odzivanje, ampak tudi na predvidevanje groženj.« Pri tem pa je nujno sodelovanje držav, raziskovalnih organizacij, medijev in civilne družbe.Vabljeni k ogledu in poslušanju epizode podkasta![ENGLISH VERSION]GOVSI Podcast: Disinformation – A Global Challenge Requiring a European ResponseIn the latest episode of the government GOVSI podcast, host Zoran Potič talks with Maria Giovanna Sessa from EU DisinfoLab, an organization that has been studying the impact of disinformation campaigns for years and promotes building resilience against manipulative content in the digital environment.The guest explains that disinformation is not merely »fake news« but deliberately created and disseminated information with the malicious intent to mislead the public. Its purpose is to undermine trust in democratic processes, institutions, and mutual solidarity. It is particularly dangerous because it often contains a grain of truth, which makes it more convincing.The discussion touches on extensive research into the Russian disinformation operation Doppelgänger, in which cloned websites of well-known European media outlets were used to spread pro-Russian narratives. The ongoing campaign illustrates how sophisticated and organized such operations are—and how difficult it is to fully eliminate them from the digital space.Sessa emphasizes that the fight against disinformation is not censorship, but rather a protection of freedom of expression and the right to truthful information. »Freedom of speech is not free reach,« she notes. A key instrument in this effort is the Digital Services Act (DSA), which strengthens transparency and accountability of online platforms across the European Union.Disinformation has become a permanent feature of the modern information society, and it must be addressed in a systematic way. As Sessa states, »We must be ready not only to respond to threats, but also to anticipate them.« Achieving this requires close cooperation among governments, research institutions, the media, and civil society.Tune in on your favourite platform to listen or

V novi epizodi vladnega GOVSI podkasta se voditeljica Petra Bezjak Cirman pogovarja z Marijanom Papežem, dolgoletnim generalnim direktorjem Zavoda za pokojninsko in invalidsko zavarovanje Slovenije (ZPIZ). Tokratni pogovor je namenjen pokojninski reformi, ki jo je Državni zbor potrdil septembra. Ali bo uveljavljena ali ne, pa je odvisno od izida zbiranja podpisov za referendum.Papež v pogovoru razloži, zakaj nova reforma prinaša dostojnejše pokojnine ter zakaj ne gre za rezanje pravic, temveč za krepitev vzdržnosti sistema in boljše pogoje za upokojence. Meni, da tako ugodne reforme za ljudi ne bomo več dobili. Poudari postopnost uvajanja sprememb, saj se bo upokojitvena starost postopno zviševala, vendar ne tudi delovna doba, ter našteje nekatere ugodnosti, ki čakajo sedanje in prihodnje upokojence v letu 2026. Med ključnimi novostmi so višje invalidske pokojnine, izboljšan odmerni odstotek za starše, zimski dodatek in drugi ukrepi, predvsem za tiste z najnižjimi prejemki.Po njegovih besedah gre za »najmanj neugodno, celo prijazno reformo«, ki je rezultat dogovora med socialnimi partnerji in sindikati.Vabljeni k ogledu in poslušanju epizode podkasta![ENGLISH VERSION]GOVSI Podcast: On the Pension ReformIn the new episode of the GOVSI government podcast, host Petra Bezjak Cirman talks with Marijan Papež, long-time Director General of the Pension and Disability Insurance Institute of Slovenia (ZPIZ). The conversation focuses on the pension reform adopted by the National Assembly in September. Whether it will actually be implemented depends on the outcome of the ongoing signature collection for a referendum.In the episode, Papež explains why the new reform introduces more decent pensions, and why it is not about cutting rights but rather about strengthening the sustainability of the pension system and ensuring better conditions for retirees. He believes that such a favorable reform for people will not happen again.He highlights the gradual introduction of changes – the retirement age will rise slowly, but the required years of service will not increase – and outlines several benefits that will take effect in 2026, for both current and future pensioners. Among the key improvements are higher disability pensions, an improved calculation rate for parents, a winter allowance, and other measures designed primarily for those with the lowest incomes.According to Papež, this is the »least unfavorable, even friendly reform«, achieved through agreement between social partners and trade unions.Tune in on your favourite platform to listen or watch the episode of podcast and enjoy the experience!

Slovenija je članica Nata že več kot dve desetletji, vendar razprave o vlaganjih v obrambo in vlogi zavezništva nikoli niso potihnile. Ob dnevu civilne obrambe je bila gostja podkasta GOVSI predstojnica Katedre za obramboslovje na Fakulteti za družbene vede, dr. Jelena Juvan.Poudarila je, da je Nato več kot samo vojska, saj članstvo koristi celotni državi: »V Natu je celotna država in od članstva v Natu nima koristi samo vojska, ampak imamo vsi,« je dejala. Po njenem mnenju je varnost temeljni pogoj za normalno delovanje družbe – podobno kot je zdravje za posameznika.Posebej je izpostavila, da mora biti oboroževanje razumljeno širše: »Oboroževanje je samo eden izmed vidikov krepitve odpornosti. Samo vlaganje v oboroževanje brez krepitve tudi socialne države, kar je temelj Evropske unije oziroma vseh, ki tu živimo, je napačna pot.«V pogovoru je opozorila tudi na sodobne varnostne grožnje, od kibernetskih napadov do dezinformacijskih kampanj, ter na pomen civilne obrambe in samozaščitnega ravnanja državljanov. Kot je dejala, Slovenija sicer živi v »varnostnem mehurčku«, a prav to je lahko nevarno: »Varnost jemljemo kot nekaj samoumevnega, dokler je ne izgubimo.«Pogovor je vodila Petra Bezjak Cirman. *******Rearmament without a welfare state is the wrong path, warns defense expert Dr. Jelena JuvanSlovenia has been a NATO member for more than two decades, yet debates about defense spending and the role of the Alliance remain lively. On the occasion of Civil Defense Day, the guest of the GOVSI podcast was Dr. Jelena Juvan, Head of the Defense Studies Department at the Faculty of Social Sciences.She emphasized that NATO is more than just the military, since membership benefits the entire country: “In NATO, the whole state is involved, and membership is not only beneficial for the armed forces, but for all of us,” she noted. According to her, security is the fundamental precondition for the normal functioning of society – just as health is for the individual.Dr. Juvan stressed that rearmament should be understood more broadly: “Rearmament is only one aspect of strengthening resilience. Merely investing in weapons without strengthening the welfare state – which is the foundation of the European Union and all who live here – is the wrong path.”In the conversation, she also warned about contemporary security threats, from cyberattacks to disinformation campaigns, and underlined the importance of civil defense and citizens’ self-protection. As she put it, Slovenia lives in a kind of “security bubble,” which may be dangerous in itself: “We take security for granted – until we lose it.”The conversation was hosted by Petra Bezjak Cirman.

Slovenija se sooča z eno največjih stanovanjskih kriz doslej: mladi ostajajo pri starših, cene stanovanj in najemnin strmo rastejo, javnih najemnih stanovanj je premalo. Ministrstvo za solidarno prihodnost se je zato sistematično lotilo stanovanjske politike. Kot je v GOVSI podkastu povedal državni sekretar, država vsako leto namenja 100 milijonov evrov za gradnjo novih javnih najemnih stanovanj.Državni sekretar Klemen Ploštajner je v pogovoru z voditeljico GOVSI podkasta Petro Prešeren Golob poudaril, da je v zadnjem desetletju nastal ogromen razkorak med ponudbo in povpraševanjem. Da se na srednji in dolgi rok ponovno vzpostavi ravnovesje, bo država občinam in stanovanjskim skladom dolgoročno zagotovila stabilen finančni okvir, kar jim bo omogočilo načrtno pripravo projektov. Poleg tega država sistematično pregleduje in aktivira javna zemljišča, da bi na ta način pospešila gradnjo. Do leta 2035 bo zgrajenih kar 20.000 javnih najemnih stanovanj.Javna najemna stanovanja bodo namenjena širokemu krogu prebivalcev – mladim, družinam, zaposlenim v ključnih poklicih ter starejšim, ki potrebujejo prilagojena oskrbovana stanovanja. Najemnine bodo ostale bistveno nižje od tržnih, hkrati pa bo država za najbolj ranljive skupine prebivalstva še naprej zagotavljala subvencijo najemnine.»Stanovanje ne more biti privilegij, ampak je temeljna pravica,« je dejal Ploštajner. Do leta 2035 naj bi v javnih najemnih stanovanjih živelo približno 150 tisoč ljudi, kar bo pomenilo pomemben premik k bolj dostopnemu in pravičnemu stanovanjskemu sistemu.Vabljeni k ogledu in poslušanju zadnje epizode vladnega podkasta.[ENGLISH VERSION]Housing policy with new momentum: €100 million annually for public rental housingSlovenia is facing a severe housing crises: young people are living longer at their parents’ homes, housing prices and rents are soaring, and public rental housing is scarce. The Ministry for a Solidary Future has systematically addressed housing policy. As State Secretary in the GOVSI podcast, the government is investing €100 million each year in the construction of new public rental apartments.State Secretary Klemen Ploštajner talked to the host of GOVSI podcast Petra Prešeren Golob and emphasized that in the past decade a massive gap has emerged between supply and demand. To restore balance in the medium and long term, the state will provide municipalities and housing funds with a predictable long-term financial framework, enabling them to plan projects more effectively. In addition, the government is systematically reviewing and activating public land to accelerate construction. By 2035, as many as 20,000 will be built.Public rental housing will be available to a wide range of residents – young people, families, employees in essential professions, and the elderly who need adapted assisted-living apartments. Rents will remain significantly lower than market rates, while subsidies will continue to be available for the most vulnerable groups.“Housing must not be a privilege but a fundamental right,” Ploštajner stated. By 2035, around 150,000 people are expected to live in public rental housing, marking an important step towards a more accessible and fair housing system.Tune in on your favourite platform to listen or watch the episode of podcast and enjoy the experience!

V 26. epizodi GOVSI podkasta Zoran Potič gosti Petra Grka, dolgoletnega sekretarja Blejskega strateškega foruma in diplomata, ki že več kot desetletje soustvarja enega najvidnejših slovenskih zunanjepolitičnih dogodkov.Grk je uvodoma poudaril, da se je zunanja politika v zadnjih letih »vrnila skozi velika vrata« v vsakdanje življenje Evropejcev – bodisi skozi posledice vojn, geopolitičnih preobratov ali podnebnih kriz. Blejski strateški forum v takem kontekstu predstavlja ključen prostor za dialog, izmenjavo pogledov in iskanje odgovorov na kompleksna globalna vprašanja. Glavno poslanstvo foruma je ustvarjati okolje, kjer se akterji z različnimi pogledi slišijo in ne zgolj govorijo mimo drug drugega.Forum se je razvil iz diplomacije po predsedovanju Organizaciji za varnost in sodelovanje v Evropi leta 2005, prva izvedba pa je bila namenjena Južnemu Kavkazu. Skozi leta je forum zrasel iz dogodka z nekaj sto udeleženci v relevantno mednarodno platformo. Eden ključnih premikov v njegovi zgodovini je bil prispevek k razpravi o vodni varnosti, ki je s panelne razprave v Bledu vplival celo na program ZN Vrh o vodi – dokaz, da lahko majhen dogodek prispeva k velikim premikom.Grk je poudaril pomen vključenosti mladih, saj so nekateri nekdanji udeleženci mladinskega strateškega foruma kasneje postali ministri, celo premierji. Letošnja 20. izvedba foruma bo nosila naslov Pobegli svet. Kot pravi Grk, gre za razmislek o tem, kam se svet premika – in predvsem, ali Evropa zmore ta tektonski premik razumeti, se nanj odzvati in se mu prilagoditi.Ob 20-letnici foruma se bodo odpirale teme, kot so evropska obramba, tehnološka in energetska avtonomija, boj proti dezinformacijam, podnebne spremembe in vprašanje evropske identitete. Vabljeni k poslušanju in ogledu![ENGLISH VERSION]Bled Strategic Forum 2025: A Runaway WorldThe 26th episode of the GOVSI podcast features Zoran Potič talking with Peter Grk, long-time Secretary General of the Bled Strategic Forum and seasoned diplomat, who has been shaping the forum for over a decade.Grk began by emphasizing that foreign policy has, in recent years, re-entered the daily lives of Europeans—whether through the consequences of war, geopolitical upheavals, or climate crises. In this context, the Bled Strategic Forum serves as a crucial platform for dialogue, exchanging viewpoints, and seeking responses to complex global challenges. According to Grk, the forum’s core mission is to foster an environment where diverse actors actually listen to one another—not just talk past each other.Originally launched following Slovenia’s 2005 OSCE Chairmanship, the first edition of the Bled Strategic Forum focused on the South Caucasus. Since then, the forum has grown from a small event of a few hundred participants into an internationally relevant platform. One of its most notable milestones was its contribution to the global water security debate, which started with a modest panel in Bled and eventually influenced the agenda of the UN Water Conference.Grk also highlighted the growing inclusion of youth voices. Several participants of the Bled Youth Strategic Forum have gone on to become ministers and even prime ministers. This year’s 20th edition of the Bled Strategic Forum carries the title The Runaway World. Grk explains that the forum will examine the notion of a world drifting away—from Western influence and values—and the urgent question of whether Europe can still adapt, respond, and remain resilient amid these tectonic changes.The agenda will tackle critical topics such as European defence, technological and energy autonomy, disinformation, cyber security, climate change, and perhaps most importantly, the question of European identity. The forum can be followed live and across social media.Tune in and watch!

V novi epizodi vladnega GOVSI podkasta, ki ga pripravlja Urad vlade za komuniciranje, se voditeljica Petra Prešeren Golob pogovarja z ministrom za solidarno prihodnost Simonom Maljevcem o sistemu dolgotrajne oskrbe, ki predstavlja tretji temeljni steber socialne varnosti, poleg pokojninskega in zdravstvenega zavarovanja.Minister pojasnjuje, kako sistem temelji na solidarnosti, je dostopen vsem in omogoča, da pomoč prejmejo vsi, ki jo potrebujejo – ne glede na starost ali socialni status. Predstavi štiri temeljne pravice, ki jih dolgotrajna oskrba vključuje, med njimi tudi oskrbo na domu, e-oskrbo in denarni prejemek.V pogovoru izpostavita tudi demografske izzive starajoče se družbe in pomen dolgotrajne oskrbe kot odziv nanje. Minister poudarja, da gre za največjo spremembo na področju socialnega varstva v zadnjih 50 letih in da je cilj sistema, da omogoči dostojno in samostojno življenje v domačem okolju čim več ljudem.Vabljeni k poslušanju in ogledu! [ENGLISH VERSION]Long-Term Care – The Third Pillar of Social SecurityIn the latest episode of the GOVSI government podcast, produced by the Slovenian Government Communication Office, host Petra Prešeren Golob speaks with the Minister for a Solidary Future, Simon Maljevac, about the long-term care system – now established as the third fundamental pillar of social security, alongside pension and health insurance.The Minister explains how the system is based on solidarity, ensuring equal access for all, regardless of age or financial status. He outlines the four core rights within long-term care, including in-home care, e-care, and cash benefits.The conversation also highlights the demographic challenges of an aging society and presents long-term care as a timely and essential response. The Minister emphasizes that this represents the biggest reform in social welfare in the past 50 years, with the aim of enabling as many people as possible to live independently and with dignity in their own homes.Tune in and watch!

V 24. epizodi vladnega podkasta Gov.si je gostoval minister za vzgojo in izobraževanje dr. Vinko Logaj. V pogovoru s Petro Bezjak Cirman je predstavil ključne zakonodajne spremembe v šolstvu, ki jih je vlada sprejela v zadnjem letu, in izpostavil pomen javnega izobraževanja v Sloveniji. Po njegovem mnenju se pogosto premalo zavedamo prednosti, ki jih omogoča dostopno in kakovostno javno šolstvo – od vrtcev do univerz, kar je po njegovem prepričanju eden od temeljev enakih možnosti za vse otroke.Minister je predstavil novosti, kot so spremembe financiranja zasebnih vrtcev, postopno uvajanje novega predmeta informatike in digitalnih tehnologij v osnovnih šolah ter pomembno reformo sistema ocenjevanja. Dotaknila sta se tudi aktualnih tem, kot so pomanjkanje učiteljev, uporaba mobilnih telefonov v šolah in ukrepi za zagotavljanje varnega učnega okolja. Minister je izpostavil, da se s temi izzivi spoprijemajo z vrsto ukrepov – od kadrovskih prilagoditev do štipendij in spodbud za mlade učitelje.Ob koncu šolskega leta je minister Logaj vsem učencem in učiteljem zaželel miren zaključek ter prijetne in zaslužene počitnice. Ob tem je izpostavil pomen sodelovanja šole, staršev in širše skupnosti pri vzgoji in izobraževanju mladih. Celoten pogovor, ki ponuja vpogled v aktualno stanje in prihodnje načrte slovenskega šolskega sistema, si lahko ogledate ali poslušate na vseh platformah podkasta Gov.si.[ENGLISH VERSION]Gov.si Podcast: Minister Logaj on Reforms and the Future of EducationIn the 24th episode of the Gov.si government podcast, Minister of Education Dr. Vinko Logaj joined host Petra Bezjak Cirman to discuss the latest legislative reforms in the Slovenian education system. He highlighted the value of accessible and high-quality public education, which he sees as a key foundation for ensuring equal opportunities for all children. Minister Logaj emphasized that Slovenians often take this system for granted, even though elsewhere education often comes with high financial burdens.The episode covered various policy updates, including changes to the funding of private kindergartens, the gradual introduction of a new compulsory subject—Informatics and Digital Technologies—in primary schools, and a reformed grading and assessment system. The minister also addressed current challenges such as teacher shortages, mobile phone use in schools, and efforts to ensure a safe and inclusive learning environment. Measures such as hiring flexibility, increased scholarships, and non-profit housing for young teachers are part of the government’s strategy to attract and retain qualified staff.As the school year comes to a close, Minister Logaj extended his best wishes to teachers and students, encouraging a joyful and stress-free end to the year and a well-deserved summer break. He underscored the importance of collaboration among schools, families, and the wider community in educating the next generation. You can watch or listen to the full episode of the Gov.si podcast on all major platforms.

Dr. Erik Brecelj za GOVSI podkast:  Hočem živeti v državi, kjer je zdravstvo dostopno vsemV 22. epizodi podkasta Gov.si, ki ga pripravlja Urad Vlade RS za komuniciranje, je voditeljica Petra Bezjak Cirman gostila dr. Erika Breclja, kirurga na Onkološkem inštitutu in vodjo Strateškega sveta za zdravstvo. V pogovoru sta osvetlila ključne izzive in reforme slovenskega zdravstvenega sistema ter vlogo strateškega sveta kot posvetovalnega telesa pri predsedniku vlade.Osrednja tema je bila novela Zakona o zdravstveni dejavnosti, ki prinaša pomembne spremembe, med drugim vzpostavitev regijskega modela in jasnejšo razmejitev med javnim in zasebnim zdravstvom. Dr. Brecelj je dejal, da je pri vodenju strateškega sveta spoznal, kako se »praktično vse probleme da rešiti – za nekatere potrebujemo leta, druge pa lahko izboljšamo v nekaj tednih«. Poudaril je tudi, da se ob sprejeti noveli zakona o zdravstveni dejavnosti preveč izpostavlja ločitev javnega in zasebnega, čeprav zakon vsebuje številne rešitve, ki so že desetletja čakale na uresničitev.Posebej je izpostavil pomen ohranjanja dostopnega in kakovostnega javnega zdravstva, ki ga ne smemo jemati za samoumevnega. »Hočem živeti v državi, kjer je zdravstvo dostopno vsem – revnim in bogatim – in kjer ni treba iz žepa plačevati storitev,« je poudaril. Ob tem pa opozoril na nevarnosti modelov, ki temeljijo na komercializaciji zdravstva in pogosto puščajo najranljivejše brez ustrezne oskrbe.Epizoda ponuja vpogled v delovanje zdravstvene politike v praksi, premislek o dolgoročnih sistemskih rešitvah ter navdihujočo osebno predanost poklicnemu poslanstvu.Epizoda je na voljo na vseh večjih platformah za podkaste in na gov.si.[ENGLISH VERSION] Dr. Erik Brecelj on the GOVSI Podcast: "I want to live in a country where healthcare is accessible to everyone"In the 22nd episode of the Gov.si podcast, produced by the Slovenian Government Communication Office, host Petra Bezjak Cirman welcomed Dr. Erik Brecelj, a surgeon at the Institute of Oncology Ljubljana and Chair of the Strategic Council for Healthcare. Their conversation shed light on the key challenges and reforms in Slovenia’s healthcare system, as well as the role of the strategic council as an advisory body to the Prime Minister.The central topic of discussion was the amendment to the Healthcare Services Act, which introduces important changes such as the establishment of a regional healthcare model and a clearer distinction between public and private healthcare. Dr. Brecelj noted that, through leading the strategic council, he had come to realise that “virtually all problems can be solved – some take years, others can be improved in a matter of weeks.” He emphasised that too much attention has been given to the public-private divide, while the act actually contains numerous long-overdue solutions.He particularly stressed the importance of preserving accessible and high-quality public healthcare, warning that it should never be taken for granted. “I want to live in a country where healthcare is accessible to everyone – rich and poor – and where people don’t have to pay for services out of pocket,” he said. He also warned about the risks of commercialised healthcare models, which often leave the most vulnerable without proper care.The episode offers a real-world insight into how healthcare policy is shaped and implemented, a reflection on long-term systemic solutions, and an inspiring look at personal dedication to the mission of public service.

Ob 80. obletnici konca druge svetovne vojne in ob dnevu Evrope Urad vlade za komuniciranje v novi epizodi GOVSI podkasta gosti dr. Aleša Gabriča, uglednega zgodovinarja in predsednika Slovenske matice. Z voditeljem Zoranom Potičem razmišljata o pomenu 9. maja nekoč in danes – kot dnevu zmage, dnevu osvoboditve in dnevu povezovanja Evrope.Epizoda osvetljuje, kako so evropske države po drugi svetovni vojni izhajale iz protifašistične koalicije in zakaj so vrednote miru, povezovanja in sodelovanja še danes temelj evropske prihodnosti. Dotakneta se tudi sodobnih izzivov, kot so vojne grožnje, porast skrajnih ideologij in vprašanje sprave v Sloveniji. Ob tem dr. Gabrič izpostavi pomen zgodovinskega spomina in vloge manjših narodov pri gradnji močne, solidarne Evrope.Vabljeni k poslušanju in ogledu! [ENGLISH VERSION]80 Years After Victory: Do We Still Understand the Message of History?On the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War and in celebration of Europe Day, the Government Communication Office presents a new episode of the GOVSI podcast featuring Dr. Aleš Gabrič, a renowned historian and president of the Slovenian Academy of Sciences and Arts. In conversation with host Zoran Potič, they reflect on the meaning of May 9—once and today—as a day of victory, liberation, and European unity.The episode explores how post-war Europe emerged from the anti-fascist coalition and why the values of peace, cooperation, and unity remain the foundation of Europe's future. The discussion also touches on today’s challenges, such as the threat of war, the rise of extremist ideologies, and the unresolved issue of reconciliation in Slovenia. Dr. Gabrič highlights the importance of historical memory and the role of small nations in building a strong and united Europe.Tune in and watch!

V 21. epizodi vladnega GOVSI podkasta je voditeljica Petra Bezjak Cirman gostila državnega sekretarja na Ministrstvu za delo, družino, socialne zadeve in enake možnosti Igorja Feketijo, glavnega pogajalca pri pripravi pokojninske reforme. Reforma, ki se uvaja postopno od leta 2026 naprej, odgovarja na ključne demografske izzive in krepi dolgoročno vzdržnost pokojninskega sistema.Glavni poudarki reforme so višji odmerni odstotek (70 odstotkov namesto 63,5 odstotka), postopno zviševanje upokojitvene starosti (s 60 oziroma 65 na 62 oziroma 67 let do leta 2035), postopno daljšanje referenčnega obdobja z odštetjem petih najmanj ugodnih let, kar bo večini prineslo višje pokojnine. Reforma prinaša tudi uvedbo zimskega dodatka za vse upokojence, ki bo do leta 2030 znašal 250 evrov.Posebna pozornost je namenjena tudi ranljivim skupinam – invalidskim upokojencem, vdovam ter tistim, ki se upokojujejo po težkih poklicih. Reforma uvaja višjo najnižjo invalidsko pokojnino, izboljšan način odmere ter poenostavitve pri poklicni rehabilitaciji.Državni sekretar Feketija je izpostavil pomen socialnega dialoga in široke vključenosti deležnikov: »Pomembno je, da se pogovarjamo – z mladimi, starejšimi, delodajalci, sindikati. Tako zagotovimo, da bodo spremembe pravične in sprejete z zaupanjem.«Vabljeni k poslušanju podkasta in ogledu na YouTube kanalu vlade.[ENGLISH VERSION]Securing the Future: Pension Reform for a Sustainable TomorrowKey elements of the reform include an increase in the accrual rate (from 63.5 percent to 70 percent) and a gradual rise in the retirement age (from 60 and 65 to 62 and 67 by 2035). Pensions will be calculated based on 40 years of earnings, excluding the five least favorable years. All these changes are expected to increase pension amounts for most retirees. Reform also introduces a winter supplement for all retirees, rising to €250 annually by 2030.Special attention is being given to vulnerable groups — including disabled pensioners, widows, and those retiring from physically demanding jobs. The reform raises the minimum disability pension, improves benefit calculation methods, and simplifies vocational rehabilitation procedures.Feketija emphasized the importance of social dialogue and broad stakeholder involvement: »It’s crucial to talk — with young people, the elderly, employers, and unions. That’s how we ensure the reform is fair and trusted.«Tune in to the podcast on your favorite platform and have a listen or watch the discussion on the official YouTube channel of the Slovenian government.

V 20. epizodi GOVSI podkasta se je voditeljica Petra Bezjak Cirman pogovarjala z državno sekretarko na Ministrstvu za javno upravo Mojco Ramšak Pešec in predsednico Sindikata zdravstva in socialnega varstva Ireno Ilešič Čujovič. Govorile so pomenu javnega sektorja za družbo in prenovi plačnega sistema, ki prinaša pomembne spremembe za več kot 188.000 zaposlenih v javnem plačnem sistemu..  Gostji razložita, zakaj je javni sektor nepogrešljiv steber družbe, dotakneta se tudi pogostih stereotipov o javnih uslužbencih in poudarita, da delo v javnem sektorju zahteva veliko odgovornosti, strokovnosti in predanosti. Državna sekretarka poudari, da brez javnega sektorja ne samo v Sloveniji, v kateri koli državi, države ni. »Vsi ga rabimo dnevno, pa najsi gre ne samo za upravne storitve, najsi gre za zdravstvo, šolstvo, predšolsko vzgojo, kulturo, znanost, vse te naše inštitucije, ki nam nudijo dejansko vsakodnevni servis, ki ga potrebujemo za svoje življenje, tako da je izredno pomembno, da ta nivo servisa, ki ga imamo v Sloveniji, da ga ohranimo, ker sem prepričana, da ga imamo na dosti visoki, zavidljivi ravni,« je izpostavila.Osrednji del pogovora je namenjen prenovi plačnega sistema, ki se je spremenil prvič po 15 letih in po kateri nihče v javnem sektorju ne bo prejel plačila, nižjega od minimalne plače. Predsednico Sindikata zdravstva in socialnega varstva poudari, da je bilo tekom pogajanja »veliko orehov za streti«, in da ni bilo samoumevno, da  je bil sklenjen dogovor. »Bilo je potrebne kar nekaj modrosti tako na vladni kot na sindikalni strani,« je dejala. Prenova bo pripomogla k večji privlačnosti javnega sektorja za mlade in zagotovila boljše pogoje za že zaposlene.Vabljeni k poslušanju podkasta na vaši priljubljeni platformi in ogledu! [ENGLISH VERSION]GOVSI Podcast: Without the Public Sector, There Is No StateIn the 20th episode of the GOVSI podcast, host Petra Bezjak Cirman talks with Mojca Ramšak Pešec, State Secretary at the Ministry of Public Administration, and Irena Ilešič Čujovič, President of the Health and Social Care Trade Union. They discuss the importance of the public sector for society and the reform of the public pay system, which brings significant changes for more than 188,000 employees within the public wage framework.The guests explain why the public sector is an indispensable pillar of society. They also address common stereotypes about public employees and emphasize that working in the public sector requires a great deal of responsibility, expertise, and dedication. The State Secretary highlights that without the public sector—not only in Slovenia but in any country—there is no functioning state. "We all rely on it daily, whether it’s administrative services, healthcare, education, preschool care, culture, science—all these institutions provide us with essential everyday services we need to live. It’s incredibly important that we maintain the level of service we have in Slovenia because I believe it’s at a high and commendable standard," she pointed out.The core of the conversation focuses on the pay system reform, which has been overhauled for the first time in 15 years. Following the reform, no public sector employee will receive a wage lower than the minimum wage. The President of the Health and Social Care Trade Union stresses that there were “many tough nuts to crack” during the negotiations, and that reaching an agreement was by no means a given. "It took a good deal of wisdom on both the government and union sides," she said.The reform will help make the public sector more attractive to young people and will improve conditions for those already employed.Tune in to the podcast on your favorite platform and have a listen or watch the discussion!

V novi epizodi vladnega GOVSI podkasta ministrica za kmetijstvo, prehrano in gozdarstvo Mateja Čalušić razkriva ključne izzive in priložnosti slovenskega kmetijstva ter strategijo za prihodnost oskrbe s hrano. Ministrica spregovori o ključnih spremembah, ki jih prinaša paket zakonskih predlogov za slovenske kmete, potrošnike in prehransko industrijo, o kmetijski politiki EU, trajnostnem razvoju, vlogi žensk in mladih v kmetijstvu ter izzivih, s katerimi se soočajo slovenski kmetje v času podnebnih sprememb in tržnih pritiskov. V pogovoru z voditeljem Zoranom Potičem ministrica tudi pojasni odločitev ministrstva, da umakne predlog reorganizacije kmetijske svetovalne službe, ki bi jo premestil pod okrilje ministrstva. Odločitev je bila sprejeta zaradi močnih političnih odzivov in skrbi na terenu, je povedala. Poudarila je tudi: "Sistem kmetijskega svetovanja potrebujemo, vendar mora biti učinkovitejši in bolje povezan s potrebami kmetov." Sogovornika se dotakneta tudi izziva zaupanja v domače kmetijske proizvode, potem ko so se v preteklosti pojavile afere, ki so vplivale na nakupne navade potrošnikov. "Na ministrstvu že izvajamo analize in ukrepe, da bi ponovno okrepili zaupanje v slovensko hrano ter izboljšali njeno prepoznavnost," zagotavlja. Vabljeni k poslušanju podkasta na vaši priljubljeni platformi in ogledu! [ENGLISH VERSION] GOVSI Podcast: The Future of Slovenian Agriculture In the latest episode of the government’s GOVSI podcast, Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Food, Mateja Čalušić sheds light on the key challenges and opportunities facing Slovenian agriculture, as well as the country’s strategy for the future of food supply. The minister discusses major changes introduced by a package of legislative proposals affecting Slovenian farmers, consumers, and the food industry. She also explores EU agricultural policy, sustainable development, the role of women and young people in farming, and the challenges Slovenian farmers face due to climate change and market pressures. In a conversation with host Zoran Potič, Minister Čalušić explains the ministry’s decision to withdraw the proposal for reorganizing the agricultural advisory service, which would have placed it under the ministry’s jurisdiction. The decision was made in response to strong political reactions and concerns from stakeholders, she notes. She also emphasizes: "We need an agricultural advisory system, but it must be more efficient and better aligned with farmers’ needs." The discussion also touches on the issue of consumer trust in local agricultural products following past food scandals that have influenced purchasing habits. "At the ministry, we are already conducting analyses and implementing measures to restore confidence in Slovenian food and improve its visibility," she assures. Tune in to the podcast on your favorite platform and watch the discussion!

V novi epizodi vladnega podkasta GOVSI predstavljamo evropsko prestolnico kulture 2025, Novo Gorico, ki je k sodelovanju povabila čezmejno Gorico. Z direktorico GO! 2025, gospo Mijo Lorbek, in programskim direktorjem, dr. Stojanom Pelkom, se je pogovarjala mag. Polona Prešeren. Na slovenski kulturni praznik, 8. februarja, bosta Nova Gorica in Gorica z umetniškim spektaklom, ki bo vrhunec celodnevnega dogajanja, začeli pripovedovati zgodbo 'Gremo čezmejno'/Go Borderless.  S sogovornikoma smo se pogovarjali o prehojeni poti Nove Gorice, ki se je začela leta 2016 začela z idejo, ki sta jo podala Neda Rusjan Bric, danes režiserka otvoritvene slovesnosti, in takratni župan Nove Gorice, Matej Arčon, danes minister. Predlagala sta, da bi bila slovenska prestolnica kulture malce drugačna, in sicer da bi povedala zgodbo čezmejnosti, ki je v tem prostoru tlela že nekaj časa. Čezmejnost je za ta prostor avtentična in izhaja iz zgodovine. Da bi jo osvetlili, je slovenska Nova Gorica k skupni kandidaturi povabilo italijansko Gorico, kar se je izkazalo za zmagovalno kombinacijo. Projekt predstavlja velik korak na poti uresničitve ambicioznega cilja, da mesti in družbi premagata fizične in mentalne meje. Vabljeni k poslušanju na vaši priljubljeni platformi in ogledu! [ENGLISH VERSION]First cross-border capital of culture In the latest episode of the government podcast GOVSI, we present the European Capital of Culture 2025, Nova Gorica, which has invited the cross-border city of Gorizia to cooperate. Polona Prešeren spoke with the director of GO! 2025, Ms. Mija Lorbek, and the program director, Dr. Stojan Pelko. On Slovenian Cultural Holyday, February 8, Nova Gorica and Gorizia will launch the story "Go Cross-Border" with an artistic spectacle – the highlight of a full day of events. We discussed with our guests the journey of Nova Gorica, which began in 2016 with an idea proposed by Neda Rusjan Bric, now the director of the opening ceremony, and Matej Arčon, then the mayor of Nova Gorica and now a minister. They suggested that Slovenia’s Capital of Culture should be something different – a reflection of cross-border identity, which had long been present in this space. Cross-border cooperation is authentic to this region and rooted in its history. To highlight this, Nova Gorica invited the Italian city of Gorizia to join in a shared bid, which proved to be a winning combination. The European Capital of Culture project therefore is a major step toward achieving an ambitious goal: overcoming physical and mental boundaries between the two cities and two communities. Tune in on your favourite platform to listen or watch and enjoy the experience! 

V prvi letošnji epizodi vladnega podkasta GOVSI ministrica za zdravje dr. Valentina Prevolnik Rupel predstavlja sveže potrjeno novelo zakona za prenovo zdravstvenega sistema. Osrednja tema so izboljšave, ki zagotavljajo boljšo dostopnost do zdravstvenih storitev, višjo kakovost obravnave za paciente ter stabilnost in finančno vzdržnost javnega zdravstva. Ministrica pojasnjuje, kako nova zakonodaja uvaja pravičnejše nagrajevanje zdravstvenega osebja, jasnejšo ureditev javne zdravstvene mreže in učinkovitejše upravljanje čakalnih vrst.Voditeljica Petra Bezjak Cirman z gostjo razpravlja o prizadevanjih za večjo motivacijo zdravnikov, regulaciji dela v javnem in zasebnem sektorju ter o zagotavljanju dolgoročne kakovosti in varnosti v zdravstvenem sistemu. Nova epizoda ponuja poglobljen vpogled v spremembe, ki vplivajo na vse prebivalce Slovenije.Vabljeni k poslušanju na vaši priljubljeni platformi in ogledu![ENGLISH VERSION]Small Steps Lead to Big ChangesIn the first episode of this year’s GovSI podcast, the Minister of Health, Dr. Valentina Prevolnik Rupel, discusses the recently approved amendment to the healthcare system reform act.The main focus is on improvements ensuring better access to healthcare services, higher quality patient care, and the stability and financial sustainability of public healthcare. The Minister explains how the new legislation introduces fairer compensation for healthcare workers, clearer regulation of the public healthcare network, and more effective management of waiting times.Host Petra Bezjak Cirman and her guest delve into efforts to enhance the motivation of doctors, regulate work in the public and private sectors, and ensure long-term quality and safety within the healthcare system. This new episode offers an in-depth look at reforms affecting all Slovenian citizens.You are invited to watch and tune in on your favorite platform! 

V novi epizodi vladnega podkasta GOVSI, ki ga je vodila Petra Bezjak Cirman, smo se poglobili v svet statistike z gostom Apolonijo Oblak Flander, generalnim direktorjem Statističnega urada Republike Slovenije (SURS), in Martinom Bajželjem, vodjo sektorja za objavo podatkov in komuniciranje. Govorili so o pomenu statistike za vsakdanje odločitve, vodenje družbe in razvoj gospodarstva. Statistika je pogosto napačno razumljena kot suhoparno obdelovanje števila. A kot sta poudarjena gosta, predstavlja osrednje orodje za razumevanje družbenih in gospodarskih tokov. »Država brez statistike ne more delovati,« je izpostavila Oblak Flander. Podatki, ki jih SURS zagotavlja, zagotavlja podjetjem, prebivalcem in državam sprejema premišljene odločitve. Od oblikovanja turistične strategije do spremljanja demografskih sprememb – statistika je vtkana v vse ravni družbenega delovanja.V oddaji so spregovorili tudi o prisotnosti Sursa na družbenih omrežjih. Da bi okrepili zanimanje javnosti za podatke, se je na svojih profilih razvil edinstven pristop, ki združuje strokovnost v humorju. Bajželj je razkril, da je tako prvič posegel po bolj sproščeni komunikaciji leta 2013 med evropskim prvenstvom v košarki. Odličen odziv jih je spodbudil, da podatke danes pogosto predstavljajo na zabaven in kreativen način. »Naš cilj je podatke narediti dostopne in zanimive tudi tistim, ki se sicer ne uporabljajo,« je še poudaril.Vabljeni k poslušanju in ogledu podkasta. [ANGLEŠKA RAZLIČICA] Making Better Decisions and Finding Humor - with statisticsIn the new episode of the government GOVSI podcast, hosted by Petra Bezjak Cirman, we delved into the world of statistics with guests Apolonija Oblak Flander, Director-General of the Statistical Office of the Republic of Slovenia (SURS), and Martin Bajželj, Head of the Data Publishing and Communication Sector. They discussed the importance of statistics for everyday decision-making, societal governance, and economic development.Statistics are often mistakenly perceived as dry number crunching. However, as the guests emphasized, it is a key tool for understanding social and economic trends. »A state cannot function without statistics,« highlighted Oblak Flander. The data provided by SURS enable businesses, residents, and the government to make informed decisions. From shaping tourism strategies to monitoring demographic changes—statistics are embedded in all levels of societal functioning.The episode also touched on the SURS's presence on social media. To enhance public interest in data, they have developed a unique approach on their profiles, combining professionalism with humor. Bajželj revealed that they first adopted a more relaxed communication style in 2013 during the European Basketball Championship. The excellent response encouraged them to often present data in a fun and creative way today. »Our goal is to make data accessible and interesting even to those who don’t typically use it,« he added.You are invited to listen and watch the episode.

V najnovejši, že 15. epizodi podkasta GOVSI, je gostja glavna inšpektorica Inšpektorata za delo, Katja Čoh Kragolnik. Voditelj Zoran Potič je z njo razpravljal o aktualnih vprašanjih delavskih pravic, zakonodaje ter vlogi inšpektorata v praksi. V Sloveniji imamo trenutno rekordno nizko brezposelnost in skoraj milijon zaposlenih, je glavna inšpektorica Čoh Kragolnik poudarila, da nizka brezposelnost ne pomeni nujno manjšega števila kršitev delavskih pravic. Med najpogostejšimi kršitvami je izpostavila neizplačilo plač, regresa in odpravnin, nepravilnosti pri odpovedih pogodb ter kršitve na področju varnosti in zdravja pri delu. V pogovoru se dotakneta tudi nove zakonodaje, kot je pravica do odklopa, in odprtih vprašanj v zvezi z beleženjem delovnega časa, kjer se soočajo s sistematičnimi kršitvami. Katja Čoh Kragolnik je predstavila tudi delovanje skupine inšpektorjev za hitro odzivanje, ki se osredotoča na najbolj pereče primere kršitev. Poudarila je, da so delavci v Sloveniji enako zaščiteni, ne glede na državljanstvo, vendar opozorila na poskuse obvoda zakonodaje pri zaposlovanju delavcev iz tretjih držav. V podkastu je glavna inšpektorica odgovorila tudi na nekaj konkretnih vprašanj, zastavljenih prek vladnih profilov na socialnih omrežjih. Vabljeni k poslušanju in ogledu epizode. [ENGLISH VERSION] Gov.si Podcast: On Workers’ Rights and the Labor Inspectorate In the latest, 15th episode of the GOVSI podcast, the guest is the Chief Labor Inspector, Katja Čoh Kragolnik. Host Zoran Potič discussed pressing issues surrounding workers’ rights, legislation, and the practical role of the Labor Inspectorate with her. While Slovenia currently boasts a record-low unemployment rate and nearly one million employed individuals, Chief Inspector Čoh Kragolnik emphasized that low unemployment does not necessarily mean fewer violations of workers’ rights. Among the most common violations, she highlighted non-payment of wages, holiday allowances, and severance payments, irregularities in contract terminations, and breaches of occupational health and safety regulations. The conversation also touched upon new legislation, such as the right to disconnect, and unresolved issues related to recording working hours, where systematic violations are being observed. Katja Čoh Kragolnik also introduced the operations of the rapid-response inspector team, which focuses on the most pressing cases of violations. She stressed that workers in Slovenia are equally protected regardless of their citizenship but pointed out attempts to circumvent legislation when employing workers from third countries. In the podcast, the Chief Inspector also addressed specific questions posed through government social media profiles. You are invited to listen and watch the episode.   

Državni zbor je včeraj potrdil zakon o plačnem sistemu v javnem sektorju. Glavne spremembe vključujejo postopno zviševanje plač, prilagoditve pri napredovanjih in ukrepe za večjo privlačnost javnega sektorja za iskalce zaposlitve.Kot poudarja Peter Pogačar, generalni direktor Direktorata za javni sektor na Ministrstvu za javno upravo in član vladne pogajalske skupine, je posebej pomembno, da nihče v javnem sektorju ne bo več prejemal osnovne plače, nižje od minimalne.Naš cilj je ustvariti sodoben in učinkovit javni sektor, ki bo služil prebivalcem. Ureditev plač je pomemben, a šele prvi korak do uresničitve tega cilja, pove Pogačar. Vabljeni k poslušanju in gledanju nove epizode podkasta GOVSI. (ENGLISH VERSION)The National Assembly approved the law on the public sector pay system yesterday. This marks the most significant reform in this area over the past 15 years. The main changes include gradual pay increases, adjustments in advancement procedures, and measures to make the public sector more attractive to job seekers. As Peter Pogačar, Director General of the Public Sector Directorate at the Ministry of Public Administration and a member of the government negotiating team, highlighted in the latest episode of the GOVSI podcast, it is also crucial that no one in the public sector will receive a base salary below the minimum wage."Our goal is a modern and efficient public sector, a modern and effective service for residents. While orderly pay is undoubtedly an important step," Pogačar emphasizes, "this is only the first in a series of many steps ahead."We invite you to listen and watch. 

V novi oddaji GOVSI podkasta govorimo o civilni obrambi. Z generalnim direktorjem za obrambne zadeve na Ministrstvu za obrambo Boštjanom Pavlinom pojasnjujemo, kaj je bistvo civilne obrambe in kakšna je razlika med civilno obrambo in civilno zaščito.Gre namreč za dva ločena podsistema nacionalne varnosti: civilna zaščita je namenjena odzivu na naravne nesreče, civilna obramba pa odzivu v kompleksnih krizah in dogodkih. Posamezni elementi in ukrepi, ki se načrtujejo za zagotavljanje civilne obrambe, so bili  aktivirani npr. v času množičnih migracij in med pandemijo COVID-19. Kot je povedal naš sogovornik, pa smo v Sloveniji dobro pripravljeni tudi na različne druge možne kompleksne krize sodobnega časa.Vabljeni k poslušanju in ogledu podkasta, ki ga tokrat vodi Zoran Potič. [ENGLISH VERSION] In this episode of the GOVSI podcast, we discuss civil defense. Together with Boštjan Pavlin, the Director General for Defense Affairs at the Ministry of Defense, we explain the essence of civil defense and the difference between civil defense and civil protection.These are two separate subsystems of national security: civil protection is intended for responding to natural disasters, while civil defense is aimed at addressing complex crises and events. Certain elements and measures designed for ensuring civil defense were activated, for example, during mass migrations and the COVID-19 pandemic. According to our guest, Slovenia is well-prepared for various other potential complex crises of the modern era as well.We invite you to listen to and watch the podcast, hosted this time by Zoran Potič.

Dr. Uroš Svete: Vsi sodobni konflikti imajo tudi kibernetsko dimenzijo Oktober je v mnogih državah in tudi v Sloveniji mesec ozaveščanja o kibernetski varnosti. O tej temi sta se v 12. epizodi GOVSI podkasta pogovarjala direktor Urada vlade za informacijsko varnost dr. Uroš Svete in direktorica Urada vlade za komuniciranje Petra Bezjak Cirman. Življenja brez interneta si danes ne znamo več predstavljati, žal pa imajo sodobne tehnologije tudi temno plat. Vedno večjo nevarnost predstavljajo kibernetski napadi, ki so v porastu in ogrožajo gospodarstvo, državne institucije in posameznike. Lahko celo ogrozijo varnost države, saj imajo vsi sodobni konflikti tudi kibernetsko dimenzijo. Kibernetski incident se lahko zgodi tudi meni, tebi, komurkoli, zato dr. Svete v podkastu poudari, da na spletu ni vse varno, zato sicer zaupaj, ampak preveri. Pozorni moramo biti tudi na dezinformacije, ki se velikokrat odvijajo tudi kot naslednja faza kibernetskega napada. Podobno kot smo se naučili cestno prometnih pravil, naj varnost postane neločljiv del uporabe tehnologije. Vabljeni k poslušanju in ogledu podkasta. Program Varni na internetu izvaja Nacionalni odzivni center za kibernetsko varnost SI-CERT, ki deluje pod okriljem javnega zavoda Arnes. SI-CERT predstavlja nacionalno kontaktno točko, ki opravlja posredniško in svetovalno vlogo ter prevzema tudi koordinacijo programa ozaveščanja javnosti o informacijski varnosti. Na posebni spletni strani Dezinformacije najdete definicijo dezinformacij, ključne elemente ter pojasnilo glede tujega manipuliranja z informacijami in vmešavanja (FIMI). Navedeni so tudi nasveti, kako prepoznati dezinformacije in pojasnilo, kaj je globoki ponaredek. Za večjo ozaveščenost prebivalcev izvajamo kampanjo »Ustavimo dezinformacije: preBERI, preMISLI, PREVERI«. [ENGLISH VERSION]Dr. Uroš Svete: All Modern Conflicts Have a Cyber DimensionOctober is Cyber Security  Month in many countries, including Slovenia. In the 12th episode of the GOVSI podcast, Dr. Uroš Svete, Director of the Government Office for Information Security, and Petra Bezjak Cirman, Director of the Government Office for Communication, discussed this topic.We can no longer imagine life without the internet today, but unfortunately, modern technologies also have a dark side. Cyberattacks, which are on the rise, pose increasing threats to the economy, state institutions, and individuals. They can even jeopardize national security, as all modern conflicts also have a cyber dimension.A cyber incident could happen to me, you, or anyone, which is why Dr. Svete emphasizes in the podcast that not everything online is safe. Trust, but verify. We must also be mindful of disinformation, which often follows as the next phase of a cyberattack. Just as we learned the rules of road safety, security should become an inseparable part of using technology.You are invited to listen to and watch the podcast.The Safe on the Internet program is run by the national cyber security response center SI-CERT, operating under the public institute Arnes. SI-CERT serves as the national contact point, fulfilling a mediating and advisory role, and also coordinates the public awareness program on information security.On the special website Disinformation, you can find a definition of disinformation, key elements, and an explanation regarding foreign manipulation of information and interference (FIMI). It also includes advice on how to recognize disinformation and an explanation of what deepfakes are. To raise public awareness, we are conducting the campaign »Stop disinformation – reREAD, reTHINK,

V novi epizodi se je voditelj Zoran Potič pogovarjal z uglednim ameriškim profesorjem na področju komuniciranja in javne diplomacije Nicholasom J. Cullom. Govorila sta o zgodovini dezinformacij, značilnosti dezinformacij dandanes ter izzivih, ki jih za demokracijo prinašajo sodobne tehnologije in vse večje količine (dez)informacij.»Sovražnik pravzaprav ni več ideologija, temveč resnica sama. Demokracija je napadena, zato moramo zgraditi informirano družbo, ki se bo zavedala nevarnosti dezinformacij in umetne inteligence,« je med drugim povedal gost, ki je eden vodilnih učenjakov na področju mednarodnih odnosov in tako imenovane mehke moči.Nicholas J. Cull je zgodovinar, katerega raziskave se osredotočajo na vpliv javne diplomacije ter na to, kako države uporabljajo kulturo in medijske strategije, da oblikujejo svojo globalno podobo. Je avtor številnih vplivnih knjig, med drugim Javna diplomacija: Nauki iz preteklosti (angleško: Public Diplomacy: Lessons from the Past) ter Javna diplomacija: Temelji za globalno udejstvovanje v digitalni dobi (angleško: Foundations for Global Engagement in the Digital Age). Je ustanovni direktor programa javne diplomacije na Univerzi Južne Kalifornije, kjer poučuje še danes.Vabljeni k poslušanju in ogledu podkasta. [ENGLISH VERSION] GOVSI Podcast: »Democracy is under attack«In the latest episode, Zoran Potič hosted distinguished American professor in the field of communication and public diplomacy, Nicholas J. Cull. They discussed the history of disinformation, the characteristics of disinformation today, and the challenges modern technologies and the increasing amounts of (dis)information pose to democracy. »The enemy is no longer really an ideology, but the truth itself. Democracy is under attack, so we must build an informed society that is aware of the dangers of disinformation and artificial intelligence,« said the guest, who is one of the leading scholars in the field of international relations and so-called soft power.Nicholas J. Cull is a historian whose research focuses on the impact of public diplomacy and how countries use culture and media strategies to shape their global image. He is the author of several influential books, including Public Diplomacy: Lessons from the Past and Public Diplomacy: Foundations for Global Engagement in the Digital Age. He is the founding director of the public diplomacy program at the University of Southern California, where he still teaches today.You are invited to watch and listen.

Te dni mineva eno leto od katastrofalnih poplav, ki so lanskega avgusta prizadele velik del Slovenije. Država se je hitro odzvala na dogodek izrednih razsežnosti, uspešno izpeljala intervencijo in kasneje tudi sprejela številne ukrepe za odpravljanje posledic poplav. Eden ključnih ljudi, ki so v tistih dneh vodili intervencijo in reševali življenja ljudi, je poveljnik Civilne zaščite Srečko Šestan. Srečko Šestan je že vrsto let najprepoznavnejši obraz Civilne zaščite in eden od prvih, ki pomiri zaskrbljene ljudi, ko nastopijo krize. Od leta 1996 je zaposlen na Ministrstvu za obrambo, na področju varstva pred naravnimi in drugimi nesrečami pa je bil aktiven že pred tem. V 12 letih, odkar opravlja naloge poveljnika Civilne zaščite, je za spopadanje z nepredvidljivo naravo in drugimi nesrečami 16-krat aktiviral državne načrte zaščite in reševanja. V teh letih si je skozi številna vodenja intervencij pridobil zaupanje in spoštovanje ljudi. Je premišljen, strokoven, požrtvovalen, s čutom za pripadnost, solidarnost in humanitarnost.Vabljeni k poslušanju in ogledu epizode.[ENGLISH VERSION]GOVSI Podcast: A well-designed system of protection and rescue is essential for a successful first response. It has been one year since the catastrophic floods affected a large part of Slovenia. The Government promptly responded to this extreme event and did much to ameliorate the immediate effects. Later, it also adopted many measures for flood recovery. One of the key people who led the first response and saved lives was Civil Protection Commander Srečko Šestan. Srečko Šestan has been the best-known representative of Civil Protection for many years and is one of the first to reassure worried people when a crisis arises. He has been employed at the Ministry of Defence since 1996, but was involved in protection against natural and other disasters even before that. In the 12 years of his service as the Civil Protection Commander, he activated the National Emergency Response Plan 16 times to fight the unpredictable effects of natural and other disasters. In leading many crisis responses over these years, he has earned people's trust and respect. He is thoughtful, professional, dedicated and has a sense of belonging, solidarity and humanitarianism. You are invited to listen and watch the episode. 

Z novo epizodo GOVSI podkasta odštevamo še zadnje dni do olimpijskih iger v Parizu. V studiu smo gostili predsednika Olimpijskega komiteja Slovenija Franja Bobinca. Z njim se je pogovarjala direktorica Urada RS za komuniciranje Petra Bezjak Cirman.Slovenijo bo v Parizu zastopala najštevilnejša reprezentanca doslej, saj šteje kar 90 članov. Čeprav bi si posebno omembo zaslužil prav vsak med njimi, naj tokrat posebej izpostavimo žensko rokometno reprezentanco, saj gre za prvo uvrstitev na OI za kateri koli ženski ekipni šport pri nas. Pariz je tokrat že tretjič prizorišče olimpijskih iger. Tiste pred natanko sto leti, leta 1924, so za nas še posebej znamenite, saj je olimpionik Leon Štukelj tam postal prvi Slovenec z osvojeno zlato medaljo.Če boste med 26. julijem in 11. avgustom med navijači, priporočamo, da si preberete informacije, namenjene slovenskim državljanom. Sicer pa - kot v podkastu poudari tokratni gost – kjer koli že boste, verjamemo, da bo od 26. julija dalje vsa Slovenija dihala z našimi športnicami in športniki kot eno. Pariz, prihajamo! Vabljeni k poslušanju in ogledu epizode.[ENGLISH VERSION]GOVSI Podcast: Paris, here we come! With the new episode of the GOVSI podcast, we are counting down the last days until the Olympic Games in Paris. In the studio, we hosted the president of the Olympic Committee of Slovenia, Franjo Bobinac. Petra Bezjak Cirman, director of the Office of Communications of the Republic of Slovenia, spoke with him. Slovenia will be represented in Paris by the largest national team ever, with as many as 90 members. Although each of them deserves a special mention, let's single out the women's handball national team this time, as it is the first placement at the OI for any women's team sport in our country. Paris is the venue of the Olympic Games for the third time. Those exactly one hundred years ago, in 1924, are particularly famous for us, as Olympian Leon Štukelj became the first Slovenian to win a gold medal there. If you will be among the fans between July 26 and August 11, we recommend that you read the information intended for Slovenian citizens. Otherwise - as this time's guest points out in the podcast - wherever you are, we believe that from July 26, all of Slovenia will breathe with our athletes as one. Paris, here we come! You are invited to listen and watch the episode.

V novi epizodi GOVSI podkasta je voditelj Zoran Potič imel ob sebi sogovornici, ki prihajata iz javnega in nevladnega sektorja: direktorico Direktorata za naravo na Ministrstvu za naravne vire in prostor dr. Katarino Groznik Zeiler in predsednico Društva za opazovanje in proučevanje ptic Slovenije (DOPPS). Povod za pogovor je bila namreč podelitev nove državne nagrade, nagrade Radeta Smerduja, ki za prispevek k razvoju stroke na področju ohranjanja narave in k ohranjanju narave. Društvo za opazovanje in proučevanje ptic Slovenije je ena večjih nevladnih organizacij na področju varstva narave in okolja v Sloveniji in član globalne organizacije BirdLife International. Društvo je s svojim delovanjem prispevalo k izvedbi konkretnih aktivnosti na terenu, ki so potrjeno že izboljšale stanje vrst ptic in njihovih življenjskih okolij, s tem pa tudi širše stanje naravnih vrednot in biotske raznovrstnosti. Sodelovali so pri ustanovitvi treh zavarovanih območij in predstavljajo središče razvoja stroke na področju varstva ptic in širše naravovarstvene stroke pri nas.Nagrada je poimenovana po biologu in naravovarstvenik Rado Smerdu (1949 – 1984), ki je s svojim delom pomembno prispeval k oblikovanju metod varstva narave ter k izdaji Inventarja najpomembnejše naravne dediščine leta 1976. Eden njegovih ključnih strokovnih prispevkov je predstavitev in preskus metode vrednotenja naravne dediščine na Planinskem polju. Sodeloval je pri nastajanju strokovnih revij in posnel več filmov z naravoslovno, jamarsko in naravovarstveno vsebino. Vabljeni k poslušanju in tudi ogledu. [ENGLISH VERSION]  GOVSI Podkast: Society for the observation and study of birds, the first recipient of the Rada Smerduja state award In the new episode of the GOVSI podcast, host Zoran Potič had interlocutors with him from the public and non-governmental sectors: the director of the Directorate for Nature at the Ministry of Natural Resources and Space, dr. Katarina Groznik Zeiler and president of the Society for the Observation and Study of Birds of Slovenia (DOPPS). The reason for the conversation was the awarding of a new state award, the Radet Smerdu award.The first recipient of the award is the Society for Observation and Study of Birds of Slovenia (BirdLife Slovenia (DOPPS)), one of the largest non-governmental organisations specialising in nature and environmental conservation in Slovenia and a member of the global organisation BirdLife. Through its activities, the association has contributed to the implementation of concrete activities in the field, which have already been confirmed to improve the condition of bird species and their living environments, and thus also the wider condition of natural values ​​and biodiversity. They participated in the establishment of three protected areas and represent the center of professional development in the field of bird protection and the broader nature conservation profession in our country.The award is named after the biologist and conservationist Rado Smerd (1949 – 1984), who with his work made a significant contribution to the creation of nature conservation methods and to the publication of the Inventory of the Most Important Natural Heritage in 1976. One of his key professional contributions is the presentation and testing of the natural heritage valuation method in Planinské polje. He participated in the creation of professional magazines and made several films with natural history, caving and nature conservation content. You are invited to watch and listen.

Ob začetku kampanje Ustavimo dezinformacije – preBERI, preMISLI, PREVERI to temo podrobneje osvetljujemo tudi v novi epizodi GOVSI podkasta. Naš gost je vodja skupine za politiko, strategijo in globalna prednostna vprašanja v oddelku za strateško komuniciranje Evropske službe za zunanje delovanje (ESZD) Siim Kumpas. Preden se je pridružil ESZD, je Kumpas oblikoval in izvajal pristop Estonije k izgradnji odpornosti proti manipulaciji z informacijami s strani tujih držav. Je tudi gostujoči predavatelj na Estonski akademiji za varnostne vede, kjer predava o strateškem komuniciranju in psihološki obrambi. Kaj so dezinformacije? Dezinformacije so zavajajoče ali nepravilne informacije, ki jih širijo posamezniki, organizacije in države z namenom zavajanja ali manipuliranja s posamezniki in javnim mnenjem. Največji učinek imajo v obdobju kriz, negotovosti in splošnega nezadovoljstva, ker delujejo na čustveni ravni in vplivajo na mnenje in odločitve ljudi. Njihov namen je ustvariti zmedo, vzbuditi jezo, strah, škodovati ugledu posameznikov, organizacij ali institucij in držav. Težava širjenja lažnih informacij je najizrazitejša v kriznih razmerah, kakršna je bila na primer pandemija novega koronavirusa. Vse evropske institucije nas opozarjajo, da lahko nov val dezinformacijskih kampanj pričakujemo tudi pred prihajajočimi evropskimi volitvami. Tudi zato želimo javnost čim bolj ozavestiti, da je kritično sprejemanje informacij in preverjanje zanesljivosti virov v današnjem času nujno. Pogovor vodi Zoran Potič. Vabljeni k ogledu in poslušanju. [ENGLISH VERSION]  GOVSI Podcast: let's STOP DISINFORMATION To mark the launch of the 'Stop Disinformation - READ, THINK, CHECK' campaign, we're taking a closer look at this topic in a new episode of the GOVSI Podcast. Our guest is Siim Kumpas, Head of the Policy, Strategy and Global Priorities Group in the Strategic Communication Department of the European External Action Service (EEAS). Prior to joining the EEAS, Kumpas designed and implemented Estonia's approach to building resilience against information manipulation by foreign states. He is also a guest lecturer at the Estonian Academy of Security Sciences, where he lectures on strategic communication and psychological defence. What is disinformation? Disinformation is misleading or inaccurate information disseminated by individuals, organisations, and states with the intention of misleading or manipulating individuals and public opinion. They are most effective in times of crisis, uncertainty, and general dissatisfaction because they operate at an emotional level and influence people's opinions and decisions. They aim to create confusion, anger, fear, damage the reputation of individuals, organisations or institutions and countries. The problem of the spread of false information is most pronounced in crisis situations, such as the new coronavirus pandemic. All European institutions are warning us to expect a new wave of disinformation campaigns ahead of the upcoming European elections. All European institutions are warning us to expect a new wave of disinformation campaigns ahead of the upcoming European elections. This is one of the reasons why we want to make the public as aware as possible of the need to critically accept information and to check the reliability of sources nowadays. Moderated by Zoran Potič. You are invited to watch and listen. 

Gost nove epizode GOVSI podkasta je Romano Prodi. Z voditeljico Natašo Čepar smo ga povabili k pogovoru ob praznovanju 20. obletnice vstopa Slovenije v  Evropsko unijo,  spregovorila  pa sta  tudi o odnosih med Slovenijo in Italijo in aktualnih dogodkih v svetovni politiki. Romano Prodi (1939) je italijanski politik, dvakratni nekdanji predsednik italijanske vlade in nekdanji predsednik Evropske komisije v obdobju med letoma 1999 in 2004 – ravno v času slovenskih pogajanj za vstop v EU. Med njegovim mandatom na čelu Evropske komisije se je EU intenzivno pripravljala na največjo širitev v njeni zgodovini in sprejetje nove Evropske ustave. Prodi je spodbujal povezovanja med članicami in krepitev vloge EU v mednarodnih zadevah.  Med njegovim predsedovanjem so bili doseženi nekatere pomembni dogovori, kot je na primer sprejetje evra kot uradne denarne enote v državah območja evro. Prav tako se je trudil za izboljšanje gospodarske konkurenčnosti Evropske unije in je spodbujal socialno kohezijo med članicami. Kot vsak politik je bil tudi Prodi deležen kritik in polemik, vendar je njegov mandat pustil precejšen pečat na nadaljnjem razvoju evropske integracije. Tokratna epizoda je bila posneta 9. maja v Novi Gorici v sodelovanju z medijsko hišo Delo. Vabljeni k poslušanju in gledanju.[ENGLISH VERSION]  Romano Prodi: Nova Gorica and Gorizia as symbols of European unity The guest of the new episode of the GOVSI podcast is Romano Prodi. We invited him to talk to host Nataša Čepar on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of Slovenia's accession to the EU. They also discussed relations between Slovenia and Italy and current events in world politics.Romano Prodi (1939) is an Italian politician, a former two-time Prime Minister of Italy, and the former President of the European Commission from 1999 to 2004 – precisely during Slovenia's negotiations for EU accession. During his tenure at the helm of the European Commission, the European Union was actively preparing for its largest expansion in history and the adoption of a new European Constitution. Prodi encouraged integration among member states and strengthened the EU's role in international affairs. Some significant agreements were reached during his presidency, such as the adoption of the euro as the official currency in the euro area countries. He also worked to improve the European Union's economic competitiveness and promoted social cohesion among its members.Like any politician, Prodi faced criticism and controversies, but his tenure left a significant mark on the further development of European integration.This episode was recorded on May 9th in Nova Gorica in collaboration with the media company Delo. You are invited to listen and watch. 

Tema nove oddaje podkasta so migracije. Gostja Zorana Potiča je izvršna direktorica Evropske agencije za azil Nina Gregori, ki se s tem področjem ukvarja že vso svojo kariero. Nina Gregori je bila pred kratkim že drugič imenovana na mesto izvršne direktorice Evropske agencije za azil (angleško European Union Agency for Asylum - EUAA). Pred odhodom v Bruselj je bila dolga leta direktorica direktorata na ministrstvu za notranje zadeve, ki je zadolžen za državljanstva, urejanje statusov prebivalstva in migracije. Je odlična poznavalka tega področja, zato je  enourni pogovor z voditeljem Zoranom Potičem kar prekratek, da bi lahko načela številne aktualne vidike te problematike. Pogovarjala sta se predvsem o pravkar sprejetem paktu o migracijah in azilu in posledicah, ki jih bo imel za upravljanje migracij v EU in delovanje EUAA, dotaknila pa sta se tudi vzrok za migracije in možnega razvoja tega področja v prihodnosti. Vabljeni k poslušanju in tudi ogledu.[ENGLISH VERSION]  Nina Gregori: I hope that the EU will always remain a safe havenThe topic of the new podcast show is migration. Zorana Potič's guest is the executive director of the European Asylum Agency, Nina Gregori, who has been working in this field for her entire career.Nina Gregori was recently appointed for the second time as Executive Director of the European Union Asylum Agency (EUAA). Before going to Brussels, she was for many years the director of the directorate at the Ministry of Internal Affairs, which is in charge of citizenships, regulation of population statuses and migration. She is an excellent expert in this field, which is why the one-hour conversation with host Zoran Potič is too short to cover many current aspects of this issue.They focused on recently adopted pact on migration and asylum and the consequences it will have for the management of migration in the EU and the operation of the EUAA, and they also touched on the cause of migration and the possible development of this area in the future.You are invited to watch and listen.

Ob bližajoči se 20. obletnici vstopa Slovenije v EU smo v novi epizodi podkasta gostili agrarnega ekonomista dr. Emila Erjavca. Med pogajanji za vstop v EU je bil član ožje pogajalske skupine za področje kmetijstva in ribištva, »strokovni motor« pogajanj za kmetijstvo. Je zelo priljubljen profesor na Biotehniški fakulteti in predvsem velik poznavalec kmetijske politike. Voditeljica tokratne epizode direktorica Urada vlade za komuniciranje (Ukom) Petra Bezjak Cirman je v pogovoru z njim obudila spomin na pogajanja, spregovorila pa sta tudi o trenutnem stanju slovenskega kmetijstva. Dr. Erjavec je kritičen do nevzajemnega delovanja naših agroživilskih verig in meni, da je vladni ukrep spremljanja cen po celotni verigi pravi, a 30 let prepozno sprejet. Opozori na mlade, ki vse bolj iščejo alternativni način življenja na podeželju – pojav, ki ga imenuje 'renesansa podeželja', a ob tem ga skrbi razkol z mladimi kmetovalci. Povezovanje med njimi je nujno, je prepričan dr. Erjavec. Vabljeni tudi k ogledu videopodkasta.[ENGLISH VERSION]  Dr Erjavec: Challenges exist, but in Slovenia, we are experiencing a rural renaissanceAs the 20th anniversary of Slovenia's accession to the EU approaches, in a new episode of the podcast, we hosted agricultural economist Dr Emil Erjavec. During the negotiations for EU accession, he was a member of the core negotiating team for agriculture and fisheries, the "expert engine" of the negotiations for agriculture. He is a highly popular professor at the Biotechnical Faculty and above all, a great expert in agricultural policy.The host of this episode, Petra Bezjak Cirman, director of Government Communication Office (Ukom), in conversation with him, recalled the negotiations and also discussed the current state of Slovenian agriculture. Dr Erjavec is critical of the lack of mutual cooperation in our agri-food chains and believes that the government's measure of monitoring prices throughout the chain is right but 30 years too late in adoption. He highlights the trend of young people increasingly seeking alternative ways of life in rural areas — a phenomenon he calls the 'renaissance of the countryside.' However, he is concerned about the gap with young farmers. Dr Erjavec is convinced that cooperation between them is essential. You are also invited to watch the video podcast.  

Osnovnošolci bodo jeseni vstopili v nekoliko prenovljeno šolo. Kot poudarja tokratna gostja GOVSI  podkasta, državna sekretarka z ministrstva za vzgojo in izobraževanje Janja Zupančič, je šola živa skupnost, ki se mora prilagajati dogajanju v okolju. Nedavno sprejeta novela zakona o osnovni šoli je eden od odzivov na te prilagoditve.Janja Zupančič je pristojna za predšolsko vzgojo, osnovno in glasbeno šolstvo ter izobraževanje otrok in mladostnikov s posebnimi potrebami. Ima bogate pedagoške izkušnje na različnih ravneh izobraževanja – od dolgoletnega poučevanja na osnovni in srednji šoli do opravljanja ravnateljske funkcije. Svoje dolgoletne izkušnje v izobraževalnem sistemu pogosto deli na različnih strokovnih dogodkih, so pa tudi odločno izhodišče pri oblikovanju sistemskih novosti na področju osnovnošolskega izobraževanja, s čimer se ukvarja na sedanji funkciji. Izhodišče pogovora v tokratni epizodi GOVSI poskasta, ki ga je vodila Vesna Žarkovič z Urada Vlade za komuniciranje, je bila nedavno sprejeta novela zakona o osnovni šoli, ki prinaša pomembne spremembe na področju učenja tujih jezikov, izvajanja nacionalnega preverjanja znanja (NPZ), spreminja pa tudi zasnovo razširjenega programa. Vabljeni tudi k ogledu videopodkasta. [ENGLISH VERSION]  "The school is a living community that adapts to its environment"Elementary school students will enter a slightly renovated school in the fall. As the latest GOVSI podcast guest, State Secretary from the Ministry of Education, Janja Zupančič, emphasizes, the school is a living community that must adapt to what is happening in the environment. The recently adopted amendment to the Act on Elementary School is one of the responses to these adjustments. Janja Zupančič oversees preschool education, primary and music schooling, as well as the education of children and adolescents with special needs. She boasts rich pedagogical experience across various levels of education – from years of teaching at primary and secondary schools to serving in the role of a principal. Her extensive background in the educational system is frequently shared at various professional events and serves as a firm foundation for shaping systemic innovations in primary education, a task she currently undertakes.The starting point of the conversation in this episode of GOVSI, hosted by Vesna Žarkovič from the Government Communication Office, was the recently adopted amendment to the Elementary School Act, which brings significant changes to the learning of foreign languages, the implementation of the national assessment of knowledge (NAK), and also alters the framework of the extended program. You are also invited to watch the video podcast. 

Gost nove epizode vladnega podkasta GOVSI je dr. Janez Potočnik: med pripravami na vstop Slovenije v EU vodja ožje pogajalske skupine za vstop v EU, nato dva mandata evropski komisar, danes pa član in sopredsedujoči Mednarodnemu panelu za vire pri OZN. Pogovor je vodila direktorica Urada Vlade Republike Slovenije za komuniciranje Petra Bezjak Cirman.  Letos obeležujemo 20 let od vstopa Slovenije v Evropsko unijo. Da smo se lahko včlanili, je bilo treba imeti jasen cilj in vložiti ogromno naporov v spremembe pravnega, gospodarskega in še kakšnega sistema, da smo bili kot država in družba pripravljeni na članstvo v EU. Zakaj smo bili tako uspešni v procesu pogajanj? Kakšna je vloga EU v svetu danes? Kakšna je vloga Slovenije v EU? Se dobro soočata s številnimi globalnimi izzivi, še posebej s prehodom na bolj trajnostni način življenja? Kako izpeljati tako imenovani zeleni prehod, da bo pravičen za vse? Dr. Janez Potočnik že desetletja sooblikuje javne politike v slovenskem in zadnja leta predvsem v mednarodnem prostoru. Je strateg z vizijo in izjemno zanimiv sogovornik. Vabljeni tudi k ogledu videopodkasta.[ENGLISH VERSION]  Dr Janez Potočnik: Without socially acceptable social conditions, the green transition will not happenThe guest of the 2nd episode of the GOVSI government podcast is Dr Janez Potočnik: during the preparations for Slovenia's accession to the EU, he was the head of the EU Accession Negotiating Group, then European Commissioner for two terms, and today he is a member and co-chair of the UN's International Panel on Resources. The discussion was moderated by Petra Bezjak Cirman, Director of the Government Communications Office.  This year marks the 20th anniversary of Slovenia's accession to the European Union. In order to join, it was necessary to have a clear goal and to put a lot of effort into changing the legal, economic and other systems so that we as a country and a society were ready for EU membership. Why have we been so successful in the negotiation process? What is the EU's role in the world today? What is Slovenia's role in the EU? Are we coping well with the many global challenges, especially the transition to a more sustainable way of life? How can we make the so-called green transition fair for all? Dr Janez Potočnik has been shaping public policies in Slovenia for decades and, in recent years, especially internationally. He is a strategist with a vision and an extremely interesting interlocutor. You are also invited to watch the video podcast. 

Gosta prve epizode GOVSI podkasta sta ministrica za zunanje in evropske zadeve Tanja Fajon ter minister za obrambo Marjan Šarec. Letos obeležujemo 20 let od vstopa Slovenije v Evropsko unijo in zvezo NATO, s 1. januarjem letos pa je Slovenija še drugič v zgodovini postala nestalna članica Varnostnega sveta Združenih narodov (VS ZN).Leta 2004 smo torej dosegli dva ključna cilja slovenske politike po osamosvojitvi. Pričakovanja so bila velika, kakšna pa je bila prehojena pot? Kako je 20 let članstva v EU in NATU vplivalo na razvoj Slovenije? Kakšna bo vloga obeh integracij v spreminjajočem se globalnem svetu in kaj si lahko Slovenija obeta od nestalnega članstva v VS ZN? Na ta in še druga vprašanja odgovore išče voditelj tokratne epizode Boštjan Lajovic.Vabljeni tudi k ogledu videopodkasta.  [ENGLISH VERSION] UN Security Council non-permanent membership also a result of responsible engagement in the EU and NATO The guests of the first episode of the GOVSI podcast were Tanja Fajon, Minister of Foreign and European Affairs, and Marjan Šarec, Minister of Defence. This year marks 20 years since Slovenia’s accession to the European Union and the NATO Alliance. On 1 January 2024, Slovenia also became a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for the second time in history.In 2004, we achieved two crucial objectives of Slovenian policy following independence. The expectations were great, but what was the path travelled like? How did 20 years of memberships in the EU and NATO impact Slovenia’s development? What will be the role of both organisations in the changing global world and what can Slovenia expect from its non-permanent membership in the UN Security Council? The host of this episode, Boštjan Lajovic, will seek answers to these and other questions. You are also invited to watch the video podcast.