BREAKING NEWS: Former Slovenian Prime Minister Janez Janša Dies at 66
BREAKING NEWS: Former Slovenian Prime Minister Janez Janša Dies at 66
Ljubljana, Slovenia – June 16, 2025
Slovenia is in mourning today following the death of one of its most prominent and influential political figures. Janez Janša, the former Prime Minister and long-serving leader of the Slovenian Democratic Party (SDS), has died at the age of 66. His death was confirmed early Monday morning by his family and the SDS, marking the end of an era in Slovenian politics.
According to a statement released by the party, Janša passed away peacefully at his home in Grosuplje after battling a long-term illness. His family was by his side. The government has declared a three-day national mourning period in honor of the man who played a central role in shaping Slovenia’s post-independence political landscape.
A Controversial but Defining Figure
Born on September 17, 1958, in Grosuplje, then part of Yugoslavia, Janez Janša was a central figure in Slovenia’s transition from communism to democracy. Originally a defense minister during Slovenia’s brief war of independence in 1991, Janša quickly rose through the political ranks, ultimately serving three terms as Prime Minister — from 2004 to 2008, again from 2012 to 2013, and most recently from 2020 to 2022.
Janša was known for his tough rhetoric, staunch conservatism, and his combative style — both on the political stage and on social media. Despite his polarizing presence, he remained one of Slovenia’s most resilient political players for over three decades.
Often referred to as Slovenia’s most divisive statesman, Janša drew comparisons to global right-wing leaders like Hungary’s Viktor Orbán due to his populist approach and controversial views on media, the judiciary, and the European Union.
Political Legacy
While Janša’s critics accused him of undermining democratic institutions and sowing political division, his supporters hailed him as a strong leader who championed national pride, economic reform, and Slovenia’s sovereignty.
His time in office was marked by a mix of economic progress and political turbulence. During his first term as Prime Minister, Slovenia joined the Eurozone and saw notable economic growth. However, his later terms were often marred by corruption allegations, street protests, and frequent clashes with journalists and civil society organizations.
Despite multiple investigations and even a brief imprisonment in 2014 over a corruption case — which was later overturned by the Constitutional Court — Janša remained a formidable political force. He staged several political comebacks, demonstrating a level of resilience unmatched in recent Slovenian politics.
Reaction Across the Political Spectrum
Condolences have poured in from across the political spectrum, both domestically and internationally.
Slovenian President Nataša Pirc Musar expressed her deep condolences, stating:
“Janez Janša was a man of conviction. His contributions to our independence and national identity will not be forgotten. While we may have often disagreed, today we honor his life and legacy.”
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also paid tribute, calling Janša a “significant figure in European conservative politics” who “left a lasting mark on Slovenia and the European Union.”
Leaders from neighboring countries, including Croatia, Hungary, and Austria, have sent messages of sympathy to Janša’s family and the Slovenian people.
A Final Farewell
Janez Janša is survived by his wife, Urška Bačovnik Janša, a medical doctor, and their children. The family has asked for privacy during this difficult time but confirmed that a state funeral will be organized later this week in Ljubljana, with full military honors.
Parliament has announced that a special session will be held in his memory, and a condolence book has been opened at the National Assembly.
Flags across the country are flying at half-mast, and citizens are gathering in town squares, lighting candles, and laying flowers in honor of the man many credit with helping to guide Slovenia through some of its most transformative years.
End of an Era
Whether hailed as a patriot or criticized as an autocrat, Janez Janša’s legacy is undeniable. He leaves behind a complex and multifaceted political history — one that continues to shape public discourse in Slovenia.
His death marks the end of an era, closing the chapter on a political career that both inspired loyalty and provoked fierce debate. As Slovenia reflects on his life, the nation now turns to the future — one Janša helped define through decades of unrelentin
g political engagement.
May he rest in peace.
