60 MPs voted in favour of holding the referendum, while 11 MPs voted against. Such an outcome was expected, since most parties supported the idea of a referendum. Only the United Left (ZL) said in the lead-up to the vote that referendums on human rights should be banned. The Marriage and Family Relations Act changes the definition of marriage from a union of one man and one woman to a union of two consenting persons.

Opinions differed on whether the referendum was necessary. The parties also have different opinions on the amendment that would extend all other rights to married same-sex couples. Coalition parties, the United Left and independent MPs said they regret that the Constitutional Court allowed this referendum to take place, but they also hope that common sense will prevail and human rights will be respected come referendum day.

The opposition Democrats (SDS) said that the issue of gay rights should be addressed responsibly – but not by redefining the institution of marriage. Meanwhile, the opposition New Slovenia (NSi) believe that the amendment does not place enough importance on the role of mothers and fathers in the overall development of children.

B. T.; translated by D. V.