Presentation of the first Voluntary Report of the Republic of Slovenia on the Implementation and Dissemination of Knowledge of International Humanitarian Law

SLOVENIA, March 4 - The event provided an opportunity to reflect on how we, as a country, implement the principles of international humanitarian law (IHL) in practice, across areas such as legislation, education, international cooperation and activities relating to human rights, security, development and water diplomacy. It has also created space for open dialogue on the future challenges and responsibilities of the state in this important legal area.

In her opening address, Neva Grašič, State Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs, emphasised that consistent respect for IHL is the only way to reduce suffering and preserve the humanity and dignity of those affected by armed conflict. Slovenia is therefore firmly committed to protecting, respecting, implementing and promoting IHL. She pointed out that Slovenia is one of only sixteen countries to have issued such a voluntary report, which further confirms the country's strong commitment to IHL and its principles.

Dr Danilo Türk, former President of the Republic of Slovenia, emphasised that respect for IHL in today's protracted armed conflicts is not only a legal obligation but also a moral imperative. He drew attention to systematic attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure, genocidal practices, child starvation and sexual violence. Dr Türk also underlined the importance of Slovenia's ongoing commitment to upholding humanitarian principles.

Dr Cordula Droege, Chief Legal Officer and Head of the Legal Division of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), addressed the participants via video link. She cited Slovenia as an example of good practice in respecting, implementing, enforcing and promoting IHL at national and international levels. She emphasised Slovenia's increased activity during its term as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council, and commended the country for being among the first to support the ICRC's Global Initiative to Galvanize Political Commitment to International Humanitarian Law.

Dr Marko Rakovec, Director-General for International Law and Protection of Interests at the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs, stressed the significance of this voluntary report, which encompasses normative reviews, good practices and Slovenia's international activities in enforcing IHL. He drew particular attention to diplomatic and other activities aimed at protecting the most vulnerable groups in today's urbanised, protracted armed conflicts, especially civilians, and particularly women and children. The report also demonstrates Slovenia's strong commitment to the rule of law and the fight against impunity. This commitment was further strengthened in 2023 when Slovenia organised a diplomatic conference at which the Ljubljana–The Hague Convention on International Cooperation in the Investigation and Prosecution of Genocide, Crimes against Humanity, War Crimes and other International Crimes was adopted.

Vanja Svetec Leaney, Secretary-General at the Slovenian Ministry of Defence, emphasised the importance of education and training for members of the Slovenian Armed Forces, identifying it as one of the report's key elements. She also presented operational measures for compliance with IHL, including the work of the Ministry of Defence’s Working Group on the International Law of Armed Conflict.

The speakers agreed that the report would strengthen international cooperation and facilitate the implementation of resolutions and commitments adopted at the 34th International Conference of the Red Cross and Red Crescent. Furthermore, it would help address legal shortcomings and enhance existing national measures, as well as encourage countries that have not yet produced a similar document to do so. Representatives of educational institutions also emphasised the report’s importance as a teaching tool.

The event was attended by more than forty people, including representatives from the Slovenian Ministries of Foreign and European Affairs, Defence and Culture, the Slovenian Red Cross, academia and other educational institutions, the judiciary, students and numerous other guests.