When government works for the people, the result is greater prosperity and security for all
Today, humanity is facing serious challenges. The world after the pandemic is not the world we knew. The war in Ukraine and its aftermath will undoubtedly have a major impact on the world economy. These circumstances, which are comparable only to the greatest hardships in the history of mankind, also leave their mark on this year’s Labor Day celebration.
When we took over the government a little over two years ago, we knew we had hard work ahead of us. Despite the fact that these two years were a period of great trials, we learned a lot. Because a crisis can also be an opportunity. But only for those who are brave and open to new knowledge and experience.
A lot has been done and I am proud that our country is in good shape today. In times of crisis and great change, the first responsibility of the government is to the citizens. Identifying and addressing their needs, ensuring their security, protecting their rights and defending their values. For the last two years, we have been realizing this mission with all our knowledge, zeal and dedication.
By adopting ten anti-crown acts to eliminate and mitigate the consequences of the epidemic, we have managed to preserve the healthy potentials of the economy, jobs and all vital elements of the welfare state. We have earmarked more than € 6 billion in legislative packages to help. To date, more than 4.5 billion euros have been paid for the smooth operation of companies in all industries. During the fight against the epidemic, more than € 730 million was earmarked for the maintenance of more than 340,000 jobs. We paid special attention to socially disadvantaged, elderly and large families. No one was overlooked.
Today, Slovenia is among the first EU countries to respond to the crisis caused by the epidemic. According to the OECD, our country was in second place in terms of economic performance during the epidemic. In the second quarter, we have the highest employment growth in the EU. After our two-year term, Slovenia has a record low unemployment rate, 58,774 in April, and a record number of people in the working population, ie more than 912,000. The minimum wage rose from 940 euros to 1,074 euros, and the average monthly gross wage from 1,856 to 1,923 euros.
In addition to record high economic growth, all these measures have been further strengthened by the Personal Income Tax Act, which will contribute to raising workers’ net wages. An employee with an average salary will receive 260 euros more in the first year, and another 1,000 euros in net annual salary by 2025. As a result of this measure, economic growth will be felt by all workers by the state giving up work. taxes collected. When government works for the people, the result is greater prosperity and security for all.
According to tradition, on the eve of May 1, bonfires are lit across the country; they not only drive away darkness, but also bring a light of hope. Hope we should not be afraid of the future. If we only know how to unite the best we have as a nation, we will progress. Each of us, all together, the nation, the homeland. If we know how to listen to each other and work together for the homeland, for a successful Slovenia.
On May 1, Labor Day and St. Joseph the Worker’s Day, I would like to sincerely congratulate you all, especially those who live from their current or past work and self-management. Stay healthy and brave. Stick to your hope.
Janez Janša,
Prime Minister of the Republic of Slovenia