Will Slovenia’s recognition of Palestine urge the EU to take more tangible action, or will it remain a symbolic gesture?

Several other European countries have stated in recent weeks that they intend to recognise a Palestinian state, arguing that a two-state solution is required for long-term peace in the region. Slovenia is the most recent European country to join the coalition.

This approach not only raises important concerns about the role of smaller nations in global diplomacy, but also highlights their ability to modify entrenched geopolitical narratives.

But is Slovenia’s recognition of Palestine a game-changer?

The arguments

Slovenia plans to recognise Palestinian statehood in June, joining Ireland, Norway, and Spain. The decision underscores the widening European division against Israel’s activities in Gaza. While Germany, Hungary, and the Netherlands support Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Slovenia remains critical of Israel’s military activities and calls for international accountability.

Supporting international law

Slovenia’s commitment to international law is clear. As a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council, it recently supported a draft resolution calling for Palestine’s full UN membership. Foreign Minister Tanja Fajon describes this recognition as a “moral duty,” emphasising Slovenia’s neutrality and support for both sides of the crisis.

Observers suggest that Slovenia’s actions are basic humanitarian responses rather than leading advocacy. Primoz Sterbenc, an academic, stresses Slovenia’s role in upholding international law to protect small states from more powerful nations. This perspective sees Slovenia’s critique of Israel as a duty stemming from Israel’s continuous breaches of international law since 1967.

He told Al Jazeera that, “Without international law in international relations, there would be a lawless ‘jungle’ in which larger states would be free to impose their will on smaller states. As Israel has ever since 1967 continuously and flagrantly breached international law … in the [occupied Palestinian territories], thereby destroying the possibility of establishment of a sovereign and viable Palestinian state, Slovenia has been somehow obliged to be critical of Israel.”

The facts

Advocating for peace and humanitarian aid

Slovenia’s stance is clear; it condemns both Hamas and Israel, advocates for a permanent truce in Gaza, and demands free humanitarian access. Slovenia voted for an immediate ceasefire in the UN General Assembly in October 2023, along with Belgium, France, Ireland, Luxembourg, and Spain.

Despite accusations from Israeli officials that the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) harbours Hamas, which resulted in a budget decrease from Western nations, Slovenia boosted its donations to the organisation.

Supporting International Law

Slovenia’s commitment to international law is evident. As a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council, it recently supported a draft resolution for Palestine’s full UN membership. Foreign Minister Tanja Fajon frames this recognition as a “moral duty,” emphasizing Slovenia’s impartiality and its sympathy for both sides of the conflict.

Slovenia’s historical context

Slovenia’s own history of seeking independence and navigating post-Yugoslav turmoil informs its foreign policy. The country’s empathy towards Palestine stems from its experience of achieving statehood and democracy. This historical perspective shapes Slovenia’s advocacy for the Palestinian right to self-determination.

Global Reception and Potential Impact

Slovenia’s move has sparked sympathy from the Global South, emphasising the worldwide importance of human rights. However, other observers warn that mere recognition may generate a false sense of progress by ignoring the true challenges.

Experts like Sterbenc warn that in order to establish true responsibility, the EU should consider imposing economic sanctions on Israel and ceasing financial support for the Palestinian Authority.

Slovenia’s recognition of Palestine is a big step forward, but the broader implications are questionable. The international community is closely monitoring Slovenia’s progress.