Expert Guide on Human Rights and Forced Labour in Slovenia

Slovenia has several key laws addressing forced labour, modern slavery, and human rights. 

• The Constitution of Slovenia guarantees fundamental rights, including the prohibition of slavery and forced labour. 
• The Criminal Code criminalizes human trafficking and forced labour, imposing significant penalties on offenders. 
• In addition, the Employment Relationships Act protects workers from exploitation, while the Foreigners Act safeguards migrant workers from trafficking.

Additionally, Slovenia's National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights implements measures to combat forced labour and modern slavery, reflecting the country's commitment to human rights.

Yes, Slovenia has sector-specific rules to address forced labour, modern slavery, and human rights, particularly in high-risk industries. These sectors include agriculture, construction, manufacturing, etc. The Employment Relationships Act and the Foreigners Act contain provisions tailored to protect workers in these vulnerable sectors from exploitation and trafficking.

Certain Slovenian companies (e.g. large and listed companies) have obligations to address forced labour, modern slavery, and human rights. They are required to conduct thorough due diligence to identify and mitigate risks of forced labour and human rights abuses within their supply chains. This means assessing their suppliers and ensuring that all parties comply with ethical standards. In addition, businesses must report on their efforts to combat forced labour and modern slavery (e.g. disclosing the measures they have taken to prevent exploitation and any incidents they have identified). Transparency in supply chains is also crucial as the companies are expected to trace the origins of their products and ensure that every stage of production is free from forced labour.

No, there are no specific government reporting obligations, however, general reporting obligations apply. 

Yes, there are criminal and civil penalties as well as administrative penalties.  

• Criminal penalties include significant fines and imprisonment for offenders, particularly those involved in human trafficking and forced labour. 
• Civil penalties can involve substantial fines and compensation claims from affected individuals, ensuring that victims receive justice. 
• Administrative penalties are also enforced, such as suspension of operations, revocation of licenses, and other regulatory actions against businesses found guilty of violations. 

These measures are designed to deter violations and ensure compliance with Slovenia's commitment to human rights and ethical practices.

Violations related to forced labour, modern slavery, and human rights can lead to criminal, civil, and administrative penalties. 

• Under the Criminal Code, human trafficking is punishable by 1 to 15 years imprisonment, while enslavement carries at least 3 years imprisonment. Time limit for criminal prosecution is thirty years from the date the criminal offense was committed if the law permits a prison sentence of more than ten years for the specific offense. 
• Civil penalties allow victims to claim compensation for damages, including unpaid wages and emotional distress. It is good to note that according to Employment Relationships Act employees must not be exposed to adverse consequences for the exercise and enforcement of their rights and the reporting of violations.

Directors and executives in Slovenia face significant risks if their companies violate laws related to forced labour, modern slavery, and human rights. They can be held personally liable for such violations, facing criminal penalties including fines and imprisonment. Civil penalties may also apply, with substantial fines and compensation claims from affected individuals. 

No.