Archives of the Republic of Slovenia Celebrates 80th Anniversary with a Commemorative Ceremony

SLOVENIA, November 7 - "Eighty years is both a long and short period: eight decades are not long, for example, through the prism of the long-duration history, nor in the light of the historical distance required for judging achievements, cultural phenomena, or the building of a nation's identity and collective memory. However, it is a period long enough to build solid foundations for professional work, networking, mutual exchange, and creating the conditions necessary for work. /…/

Archives perform tasks that are often hidden and seemingly repetitive tasks, doing so to ensure the continuity of history and memory, which is in our public interest. They look after our common heritage and much more. This is also why all Slovenian archives are status-wise national public institutions. Their importance, although it may seem contradictory, is further emphasized by the twenty-first century.

When I think of the Slovenian archives, I think of the projects we undertake together and the topics we address nationally and internationally. For example, the efforts concerning succession issues after the former joint Yugoslav state, or the restitution of valuable materials to its original locations; the proposals for the international affirmation and recognition of Slovenian heritage within the framework of UNESCO programs; and even more so, the professionally consolidated work in the fields of digitalization, standards, and artificial intelligence.

When I think of Slovenian archival experts, I think of a connected professional community that supports and helps one another, sticks together, and sometimes does not take itself too seriously. Moreover, with self-confidence, it weaves collaborations that also transcend the boundaries of archives and connect institutions that care for our heritage—be it written, material, visual, or intangible.

If cooperation, connection, and respect are inherent to culture—if they are, so to speak, inscribed within it—then let your and our work reflect this. Be solidary among yourselves, connecting with your core professions and with cultural, educational, and scientific institutions; be inclusive of creators, individuals, and groups; open to your environment; and understanding towards different groups of visitors... This, too, is your DNA and it complements the ethical approach to work—the awareness and pride that we are co-creating the kind of society we desire."