20th Anniversary of Slovenia's independence

23.06.2011

On the occasion of Slovenia s independence 20th anniversary we, the Slovenians living in Italy, would like to express our satisfaction and our connection with the Slovenian people and the State of Slovenia, which currently brings together the majority of the Slovenians under one roof.

At the same time we cannot ignore the fact that both in Italy and Slovenia we are constantly confronted with very similar doubts, resentment and insidious questions. To name but a few: Are world countries truly sovereign and independent, or are constrained by world and global economic and political events? Is modern democracy something alive and real, or is it only a system that divides the citizens and weakens the countries through conflicts? Does still make sense to be in Europe, since any serious problems are resolved with great difficulty and delayed solutions? Was it convenient to enter the Eurozone and adopt the common currency? These are serious issues.

Countries sovereignty is clearly limited, as the global interdependence that embraces all areas of life, is constantly growing. The risk is that many countries, in particular smaller ones, may get lost in this sea of unbridled and avid interests. In this case one should not dictate an impossible escape, but encourage the nation, the state and its citizens to firmly preserve what binds them together. Slovenia has decided to become independent through a plebiscite. Slovenia has chosen the path of democracy and the rule of law, wrote a new constitution and accepted the challenges of the market. These elements constitute the commitment of all Slovenians, regardless of their cultural, political, religious or other views. This fundamental commitment, this interpersonal pact and the plebiscite for a united State are the only means to guarantee that mutual differences and pluralism do not evolve into dividing forces, hatred and rejection of those who think differently or have different life styles. In politics pluralism creates rivals or adversaries, but never enemies. Politics as a hostile challenge undermine the fundamental pact underpinning the country. Only a political commitment, which knows controversies and sharp confrontation, but does not create walls, can solve the worst problems and moments. In short, nations and countries need pluralism and common points at the same time.

Common to every Slovenian was the desire for independence, and before that the decision to resist the occupying forces with the Liberation Front of Slovenia. Today it is common to every Slovenian the commitment to overcome the current critical economic moment, which is not specific only for Slovenia, but it represents a global phenomenon. To be a part of Europe does not mean that we have to reject our Slovenian language, culture and common history that preserves not only bloody memories, yet bright and constructive elements that should prevail over those that may divide us.

To be a part of Europe means that we have to build patiently a transnational community that will include a common currency and a common policy, a common sense of justice and social solidarity. It means that we have to build a common foreign policy and create the strategies that will allow us to be successful in the global competition. Such a Europe is not already given, it has to be built and it should give the same opportunities to small and minority groups, since Europe will not be balanced, if it will be dependent upon two or three powerful nations.

Neither the Euro is the mother of all our problems. With liras, dinars and tolars we would be an easy prey to the international financial speculations as never before. Nevertheless, it is clear that every State has to behave responsibly and wisely. Companies and citizens should not spend more than what they earn. Progress is in the knowledge and skills to create new ideas and products. In addition to democracy the sense of what is permitted on the market is also essential, i.e. the rule of law.

Nowadays small groups have the opportunity to accumulate infinite illegal wealth. Economy can prevail over politics and law. However, it is precisely the task of all of us, including the young Slovenia, to prevent a world without rules or agreements, a world based on pirate pulses, where the stronger dominates over the weaker. These are the challenges of every State, including Slovenia.

Long live independent Slovenia: a country that will be able to overcome once again the current concerns and problems. After all, our life is not the worst of all: our ancestors could not even dream of. But it is essential that we do not lose it due to stupidity, anger and envy.

The Slovenian Cultural and Economic Association salutes the 20th anniversary of the independent Republic of Slovenia and is proud of its successes.

Rudi Pavšič, SKGZ President

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