Slovenia's 5 core values complement each other and form an integrated framework for a healthy society:

• Trust and respect are the basis for cooperative relationships.
• Integrity ensures that these relationships are fair and reliable.
• Loyalty gives an emotional connection that motivates individuals to work together.
• Helping each other makes sure no one is excluded, which strengthens unity.
• Balance but maintains a balance so that society does not slip into extremes or divisions.

Together, these values create a society where individuals thrive because they feel safe, valued and connected, and where society is stable, just and resilient because it is based on cooperation and shared goals. They are like the pillars that support a bridge: each one is crucial, and together they make it possible to cross all challenges.

These values are fundamental because they address basic human needs - security, justice, cohesion, solidarity and balance - that are universal for every society, regardless of time or place. They are simple but profound, and can unite people without divisiveness. Each value supports the individual to grow and society to progress, which is the key to lasting success.

Why are these 5 values important for Slovenia?

• Trust and respect

Slovenia has historically experienced divisions, from the Second World War to the transition, which have underpinned trust. Mutual trust and respect are the basis for dialogue that transcends divisions and for cooperation in communities, from village to country. In Slovenia, where unity is key to the success of a small nation, trust and respect allow differences to become a strength, not a hindrance.

• Integrity

Honesty is the antidote to the corruption and mistrust that have hindered progress in the post-transition era. A society where truth prevails attracts investment. In Slovenia, honesty is the key to rebuilding trust after the wounds of history and to building a just society that is valued at home and abroad.

• Loyalty

In Slovenia, which has lived without statehood for centuries, belonging is the fuel for unity and resilience. It strengthens national consciousness while encouraging openness. This is especially important in times of globalisation, when Slovenians learn from others, but preserve our identity. Belonging binds Slovenians into a strong community that has proven to achieve great things, such as scientific, sporting, entrepreneurial and artistic achievements, despite its small size. A confident Slovenia can do great things also contributes a great deal to solving the world's challenges, because finding solutions for the common good at the level of the state is similar to finding solutions at the level of the individual. Only self-confident people are able to seek good solutions for the benefit of all without thinking, which solutions would benefit them personally.

• Helping each other

Slovenia's tradition of mutual aid - from post-war reconstruction to responding to natural disasters such as floods - is a testament to its strength. In Slovenia, where community is the key to survival, mutual aid ensures that no one is left behind.

• Balance

Moderation prevents the waste of resources and ideological extremes that have historically been divisive. A balance that protects the environment and society for future generations, reflecting Slovenia's commitment to sustainability. In a small country where resources limited, moderation ensures sustainable development and social peace, which are crucial for Slovenia.