Slowenien
Amnesty International has joined a legal challenge against Slovenia's 'Security Law', which allows the seizure of social assistance from individuals with unpaid fines. This measure has disproportionately affected the Roma community, leading to widespread criticism and calls for legislative amendments.
In November 2025, the Slovenian Parliament passed the Act on Urgent Measures to Ensure Public Security, commonly referred to as the 'Security Law'. This legislation grants the Tax Office authority to confiscate social assistance from individuals who have accumulated at least three unpaid fines for minor offenses over the past two years. The law was expedited through parliament following a fatal incident involving a member of the Roma community, which intensified public discourse on security and minority rights.
By January 2026, over 1,000 individuals and their families had their social assistance seized under this law, leaving many unable to afford basic necessities such as food and shelter. The Roma community, already facing systemic discrimination and economic hardships, has been disproportionately affected by these measures. Critics argue that the law lacks essential safeguards, imposing no effective limits on the amount of social assistance that can be confiscated, thereby exacerbating the vulnerability of marginalized groups.
On February 11, 2026, Amnesty International, in collaboration with the Legal Network for the Protection of Democracy—a coalition of NGOs including Amnesty International Slovenia—filed an appeal to Slovenia's Constitutional Court. The appeal contends that the 'Security Law' violates fundamental human rights, including the right to social security and protection from discrimination. Esther Major, Deputy Director for Research in Europe at Amnesty International, stated, "This harmful law is being used to target individuals and communities that already face daily discrimination, exclusion, and poverty."
The Slovenian government has defended the 'Security Law' as a necessary measure to ensure public safety and enforce compliance with legal obligations. However, the European Commission has urged Slovenia to ensure that the enforcement of this law does not disproportionately affect any community. Public opinion remains divided, with some viewing the law as a justified response to public safety concerns, while others see it as an unjust targeting of vulnerable populations.
The Constitutional Court's forthcoming decision on this appeal will have significant implications for the balance between public security measures and the protection of human rights in Slovenia. A ruling against the 'Security Law' could prompt legislative revisions and set a precedent for the treatment of social assistance recipients and minority communities. Conversely, upholding the law may lead to further marginalization of vulnerable groups and potential conflicts with international human rights standards.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the situation continues to draw attention from human rights organizations and the international community, highlighting the ongoing challenges in safeguarding the rights of marginalized populations within the framework of national security policies.
