| Abstract: | In this thesis, we examine the legal and symbolic significance of the state, national, and community symbols of the Republic of Slovenia. The focus is placed on the flag, coat of arms, anthem, and national flag of the Republic of Slovenia, as well as the symbols of national communities, from the perspective of their history, legal regulation, and role in contemporary Slovenian society.
The analysis of the legal framework for protection includes constitutional provisions, legislation (ZGZH, KZ-1, ZJRM-1, ZP-1, and others), and case law, with special emphasis on the criminal, misdemeanour, and civil law protection of symbols. The work also addresses concerns and debates regarding the appropriateness of certain symbols, particularly the coat of arms and the text of the anthem.
The historical overview traces the development of the symbols from their Carantanian roots, through the socialist period, to the present democratic state. The findings establish that legal protection plays an important role in preserving national identity. Legal regulation is frequently part of political discourse, which is reflected in legislative proposals and public debates on the appropriateness of state symbols.
In addition to the legal and historical aspects, it is important to highlight the constitutional court review, which has influenced the formation of practice regarding the use of symbols. The decision of the Constitutional Court of the Republic of Slovenia No. U-I-296/94 confirmed that the Italian and Hungarian national communities have a constitutionally guaranteed right to use their symbols, even when these are identical to the state symbols of their respective countries of origin.
The analysis shows that abuse of symbols in practice is rare, indicating a high level of public respect for them. |
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