The Euro-Atlantic Council of Slovenia (EACS), in cooperation with the Park of Military History (PVZ), presents the talk show “Defence Hour,” which focuses on current issues in the fields of defence and security. The show is conducted in Slovenian.
V evoluciji je skrita resnica – Episode #7
In the seventh episode of the talk show Defence Hour, we venture into the field of natural sciences, which is inseparably intertwined with the social sciences. The world we are part of cannot be observed, measured, explained, or understood without science—because science is not the destination, but the journey. Humans often perceive themselves as the measure of all living and non-living things, yet our presence on this planet is far shorter than that of most other life forms.
Our guests this time are Dr. Marina Dermastia and Dr. Tom Turk—biologists, professors, researchers, mentors, and authors of numerous works. Anyone who reaches for their books enters the world of animal and plant species, the underwater realm of the Mediterranean, or the stories of their scientific and life journeys.
Given the breadth of their knowledge and the complexity of the topics, a comprehensive discussion would require a multi-day seminar. However, within the scope of this episode, we touched upon several key issues of our time: the existence of the so-called “evil gene” in humans, the disappearance of animal and plant species as a consequence of anthropogenic impacts, unfounded fears surrounding genetically modified organisms, wildlife management, and the phenomenon of so-called “plant blindness.”
Diplomacy is an Invisible Force – Episode #6
In the sixth episode of the Defence Hour talk series, we host Ambassador Roman Kirn, a long-standing career diplomat and one of the most recognisable figures of both Yugoslav and early Slovenian diplomacy.
Ambassador Kirn has detailed his rich diplomatic career in his book, V službi diplomacije (eng. In the Service of Diplomacy), offering insights into the work of a diplomat and the complexity of decision-making in the international arena. As the book’s title suggests, diplomacy is not merely a profession—it is a vocation that demands personal dedication, sensitivity to subtle details, and an understanding that political decision-makers may either use or disregard the information provided by the diplomatic network. The former reflects state-building leadership; the latter indicates political actors who do not show such responsibility in their daily work.
Our guest emphasises that diplomacy is one of the key instruments of both large and small states, including Slovenia. To be called into the service of one’s country is both an honour and a responsibility, requiring a high level of commitment and a clear understanding of the national interest. Kirn also highlights an important question that society often neglects to ask: Do we truly appreciate what it means to have our own state? Not all nations have this privilege.
Defence Hour on the Park of Military History – Episode #5
In the fifth episode of the Defence Hour, we welcome Mag. Janko Boštjančič, Director of the Park of Military History in Pivka. The discussion highlights the Park as an outstanding example of transforming a former military complex into a modern museum, educational and research centre. Today, the Park plays a vital role in preserving military-historical heritage and strengthening public awareness of the importance of peace, security, and resilience.
The Park of Military History represents a significant developmental achievement for the Municipality of Pivka, for Slovenia, and for the broader professional community. Through its educational mission, unique collections, specialised programmes, and international cooperation, the Park stands as a bridge between the past and the present. It contributes to a deeper understanding of military history, contemporary defence issues, and the enduring importance of societal resilience and peace.
Resnična in potvorjena zgodovina – Episode #4
In the fourth episode, we welcomed Mag. Zvezdan Marković, a historian and specialist in military history. The conversation, recorded at the Park of Military History, highlights the importance of understanding the past to better comprehend the present and shape a vision for the future.
In an era saturated with rapid information, media influence, and the constant flow of social networks, it can often feel as though we exist only in the present. Yet history reminds us otherwise: if we were to layer one era of the past over another, we would quickly recognise how often patterns repeat themselves. This is why it is crucial to study history through primary sources, interpret it with integrity, and place it within its authentic historical context.
Zdravnik med mirom in vojno – Episode #3
Today’s guest is Dr. Andrej Strahovnik, trauma surgeon at Celje General Hospital, chief physician of the Slovenian Armed Forces, as well as an experienced pilot, traveller, and photographer. The conversation highlights his diverse professional expertise and unique perspectives gained through years of service in both the medical and defence fields.
Ura mednarodnih odnosov – Episode #2
This episode’s guest is Assoc. Prof. Dr. Matjaž Nahtigal, Associate Professor at the Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Ljubljana, where he teaches international law at the Department of International Relations.
Dr. Nahtigal graduated from the Faculty of Law, University of Ljubljana, in 1992 and earned his first doctorate there in 1999. In 2001, he obtained a second doctorate (S.J.D. programme) from Harvard Law School, USA.
He is the author of three monographs on law, reforms, and transitions in Central and Eastern European countries, as well as on structural changes in the European Union within the processes of globalisation. Dr. Nahtigal has published numerous scientific articles both in Slovenia and internationally, delivers invited lectures abroad, and regularly participates in international academic conferences.
More information is available at: ResearchGate | matjaznahtigal.com
Kako lahko obranimo obrambo? – Episode #1
The guest of the first episode is Prof. Dr. Iztok Prezelj, President of the Euro-Atlantic Council of Slovenia and Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences at the University of Ljubljana, as well as a distinguished expert in the field. In a discussion with moderator Srečko Zajc from the Euro-Atlantic Council of Slovenia, he explores the key issues of security and resilience – from the individual level to the broader European context – in light of today’s complex security challenges.
Show Title: Defence Hour
Moderator: Srečko Zajc, Euro-Atlantic Council of Slovenia*
The show explores a broad range of defence and security topics, focusing on the resilience of individuals, local communities, the Republic of Slovenia, and Europe as a whole.
Organised by: Euro-Atlantic Council of Slovenia in cooperation with the Park of Military History
Produced by: V KADRU, Jaka Čelhar s.p., 2025
* Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in the show do not necessarily reflect those of the institutions with which the speakers are affiliated.