This Alpine country of 2 million inhabitants was the first state from Yugoslavia to join the European Union in 2004, joining the euro area and the Schengen area in 2007.
But in Brussels, some observers are worried.
Slovenia is led by Janez Janša of the Slovenian Democratic Party (EPP) who often makes populist comments about migrants.
His role model, his “friend and ally” Viktor Orbán, is the strong man of Hungary, and Janez Janša seems to want to align his country with the reactionary policies of Budapest and the Visegrád group.
We are going to meet the political leaders of the majority and of the opposition: Gašper Dovžan, Slovenian State Secretary for European Affairs, who will answer our questions and the criticisms of the European partners;
MEP Franc Bogovič, linked to the ruling party;
opposition MEPs Tanja Fajon (Socialists and Democrats group) and Klemen Grošelj (Renew Europe group).
In this second part, we wonder about the place of green tourism in Slovenia. The country is a leader in the field in Europe. But how can he guarantee that this tourism does not damage what makes its environment unique? Is this tourism really sustainable?
Finally, a crucial issue in the region, we are taking the time to raise the issue of relations between the EU and Slovenia's neighbors who are not members of the bloc: the Balkan countries.
Our guests explain to us why these countries - from Yugoslavia, like Slovenia - are close to them, and what challenges must be met before being able to welcome them into the European Union.
And our regional correspondent shows us how the issue of vaccines against Covid-19 represented a diplomatic tool for the countries of the region - notably Serbia, which delivered doses to its neighbors.
A program presented by Caroline de Camaret, produced by Johan Bodin, with images by Olivier Molinari and the participation of Luke Brown.
In partnership with the European Union.
The project was co-financed by the European Union within the framework of the European Parliament grants program in the field of communication.
The European Parliament was not involved in its preparation and is in no way responsible for or bound by any information, information or views expressed in connection with the project for which only the authors, individuals interviewed, the editors or broadcasters of the program are responsible in accordance with applicable law.
Nor can the European Parliament be held liable for any damage, direct or indirect, which may result from the implementation of the project.
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