Number: 97-554 Title: SLOVENIA: COUNTRY BACKGROUND REPORT Authors: Julie Kim and Jeri Hawthorne, Foreign Affairs and National Defense Division Abstract: Slovenia seeks membership in the European Union and NATO and is considered to be among the top candidates currently aspiring to join each organization. Independent from the former Yugoslavia since 1991, Slovenia has focused on consolidating its transition to a democratic market economy and integrating into western institutions. By most assessments, Slovenia has been successful in these efforts, especially in comparison with the conflict-ridden experience of the other former Yugoslav republics. This report provides background information on Slovenia. Pages: 6 Date: Updated November 30, 1999