Abstract
The paper addresses a concept of differentiated integration in Slovenian politics. The analysis showed that the key words associated with the salience of DI are seldom used in parliamentary debates, coalition programmes or prime minister speeches. The issue of DI is more a topic for academic discussion than for daily politics. We identify that the common thread throughout Slovenian foreign policy from independence onwards has been that a strong and united EU, which is of key importance for Slovenia. Primarily because of a fear that a multi-tier EU would mean fewer opportunities for future Slovenian governments and in general fewer opportunities for smaller and/or less developed countries.
Highlights
This report investigates the salience of differentiated integration (DI) in Slovenian government discourse between 1990 and 2018.1 It probes into the position of Slovenian governments on the issue of DI
The analysis has shown that, overall, the government position on European affairs is not as present in Slovenian politics as one would expect in the light of the fact that Slovenia has been a full member of the European Union for 15 years
The lack of discussion on the European Union (EU) and the Slovenian position within it is quite surprising in government documents such as coalition agreements and inaugural speeches by prime ministers
Summary
The concept of differentiated integration is practically invisible in Slovenian politics. The analysis showed that the key words associated with the salience of DI are seldom used in parliamentary debates, coalition programmes or prime minister speeches. The issue of DI is more a topic for academic discussion than for daily politics. The document analysis reflected a low presence of discussion on the EU in general. More detailed research showed that even when the EU is being discussed the discussion is closely related to national topics such as the use of structural funds or the uptake of EU legislation
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