OECD calls for end to mandatory Christmas bonus in Slovenia, unions push back

The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has recommended that Slovenia abolish the mandatory Christmas bonus, a move that would save the state and employers an estimated 600 million euros annually. The bonus, currently required by law, has drawn criticism from the OECD and business groups who argue it imposes an unfair burden on less profitable companies. The recommendation was issued during the summer, but has sparked significant debate about labor rights and fiscal policy.

Business leaders support the OECD's stance. Mitja Gorenšček, Executive Director of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Slovenia (GZS), stated that it is not fair for the state to mandate such payments for companies facing financial difficulties. "The winter bonus makes sense primarily in particularly successful or above-average environments," he said.

However, trade unions strongly oppose any change. Branimir Štrukelj, Secretary General of the Education, Science and Culture Trade Union (SVIZ), warned that workers would not give up the bonus without a fight. "The employees in this country will not return the Christmas bonus without a fight. This is an acquired right for us, and we will fight for it to remain," he emphasized.

The Ministry of Finance has not commented on camera but stated in a written response that it is not currently considering abolishing the mandatory winter bonus. It supports direct dialogue between the government, employers, and unions within the Economic and Social Council (ESS). The OECD's broader recommendations include reducing labor taxes and increasing taxes on consumption and real estate, measures that business groups also endorse.

Separately, the Fiscal Council has raised concerns about the new coalition government's agenda, noting that only about 10 percent of proposed measures can be financially evaluated. Chairman Davorin Kračun warned that without proper compensation, timelines, and priorities, the coalition agreement may be difficult to implement. The first serious test for the new government will be the preparation of the budget or a potential rebalancing, which will reveal how pre-election and coalition pledges align with fiscal realities.