On Tuesday, 23 July 2025, MEP Irena Joveva gave an open, emotional interview to the popular Macedonian magazine Ženski magazin, where she reflected on her roots, childhood, and personal journey from her  hometown of Jesenice to the halls of the European Parliament. In an honest and moving conversation, she also spoke about motherhood, political challenges, and the role of women in public life.

When asked about her childhood, she fondly recalled growing up in Jesenice – a place that remains close to her heart: “To me, it will always be the most beautiful town in the world,” she said, “precisely because of the memories I carry from those early years.” Raised in a close-knit housing estate, surrounded by families who had migrated from across the former Yugoslavia, she remembers a spirit of solidarity, where “neighbour stood by neighbour” wasn’t just a saying, but a way of life.

Proud of her heritage, Joveva emphasized that she has never been ashamed of her roots, her surname, or her family. She grew up between two cultures — Slovenian and Macedonian — and embraced both. For nearly a decade, she attended supplementary Macedonian language classes, and for almost twenty years she danced in a Macedonian folk group affiliated with the cultural association Ilinden, where she remains an active member.

Reflecting on her visits to North Macedonia, she said they were far more frequent during her childhood — unforgettable trips filled with warmth, genuine friendships, and even a first love. While her visits are now more occasional due to work and family responsibilities, she maintains strong ties with loved ones and continues to nurture her cultural roots.

Her recent speech in the European Parliament — in which she defended the Macedonian language and identity — resonated powerfully with audiences both in and outside Macedonia. She confessed that she had no expectations when she delivered the speech, nor did she seek attention:


“I simply said what should already be obvious to everyone,” she explained. Still, she was moved by the fact that her words reached not only those who supported her but also those who perhaps needed to hear them most.

As a woman in politics, Joveva has long faced prejudice and, at times, double standards. What frustrates her most is the fact that, even in 2025, the political sphere is still largely male-dominated — something she believes should no longer be the case: “The only things that should matter are one’s work and results, not gender,” she stated.

She has learned to live with public scrutiny — and has even come to expect targeted attacks and attempts to discredit her. What still hurts, though, are the attacks directed at her family:”Reading lies about myself doesn’t faze me anymore,” she admitted. “But when someone targets my family — that’s different. That cuts deep.”

One such moment came recently on social media, where she was mocked because of her parents’ professions.

“It hurt to see someone ridicule honest work — in this case, my parents’. I’m proud that my mother was a cleaner and my father worked in the steel industry. Nothing was handed to me, and even less to them. I am living proof that success doesn’t require connections — and certainly not shortcuts — just hard work and integrity.”

Although she generally follows parliamentary protocol, she admitted that at times she consciously breaks the rules — out of principle.“These days, it feels nearly impossible to remain ‘correct’ in a political system so often led by people whose values exist only on paper — stashed away in some forgotten drawer,” she said.

She recounted one such moment: standing in the European Parliament chamber, holding up a photograph of Yazan, a young boy who died as a result of hunger and genocide in Gaza. The image was shown for only a few seconds before she was warned to turn off her microphone — but the moment remains unforgettable:

“That surge of adrenaline — not just because the session was chaired by a German MEP — but because of the responsibility I felt in that moment. I knew I was on the right side of history.” “In such cases,” she continued, “it’s more ethical — in all its irony — to break the rules with your head held high than to nod along in silence. I am proud to give a voice to those who don’t have one, whenever I get the chance. That’s why I ended my recent address in the Macedonian language. If humanity has a price, I’ll pay it gladly.”

When asked about the greatest source of support in her life, she named her family — first and foremost, her late mother, whose presence continues to guide her every step: “She is still my greatest inspiration. I’ve never met — and probably never will meet — a stronger and more just person.” She added that her father’s steady support, her partner’s encouragement, and the presence of her young daughter Mila — “a source of strength she doesn’t even realize she holds yet” — have all shaped her path.

When asked what she would change for women in Europe if given the chance, she didn’t name a specific policy or law, but rather a shift in mindset:


“Less envy, more empathy. Less pressure to look or be perfect. And the understanding that you don’t need an ‘Instagram body’ to be worthy.”

She admitted that appearances have never been of great importance to her — though she understands how social expectations can shape public perception:

“Personally, I couldn’t care less what someone is wearing. But I do get it — there’s a widespread belief that people trust someone more if they’re wearing a blazer or a suit rather than a sweater and jeans. I remember as a kid, people always noticed who wore something new. I never did. Because clothes, material things — they never really mattered to me.”

Toward the end of the interview, Joveva shared a tender reflection on her late mother’s cooking — and her regret at not having written down more of her treasured recipes:

“It’s something I’ll never forgive myself for. Back then, we didn’t have smartphones to record everything. And I was just a teenager, not yet aware of what it would mean to carry her culinary legacy forward in today’s chaotic life.”

With a warm smile, she added: “Let professional chefs forgive me — but my mom was the best cook in the world. My favorite Macedonian dish? Tavče gravče. She made it perfectly. I’m not there yet. But one day, I hope to be.”

You can read the entire interview at the following link.

On Monday, July 11, 2025, Slovenian Member of the European Parliament Irena Joveva gave an in-depth interview to Monitor, an independent Montenegrin weekly. She discussed a range of pressing issues—from the vote of no confidence in European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and the tense geopolitical climate in the Middle East and Serbia, to NATO defense spending and a controversial resolution on postwar communist crimes in Slovenia. She concluded with reflections on Montenegro’s EU accession prospects.

Joveva began by addressing the recent no-confidence vote against von der Leyen. She reiterated her longstanding criticism of the Commission President, particularly over the lack of transparency in high-stakes negotiations—most notably the vaccine procurement deal with Pfizer:

“Decisions as critical as vaccine purchases cannot be made through text messages. While we can’t change how the Commission handled the process, we can and must be clear: there is no room for secrecy when public funds are at stake.”

Turning to the Western Balkans, Joveva expressed concern over the continued ethnic polarization in the region. She pointed out that certain political actors deliberately maintain divisions by weaponizing fear, hatred, and historical distortion to cling to power. However, she emphasized that responsibility lies not only with local leaders but also with the European Union, whose approach to the region she described as fundamentally flawed:

“For years, the EU’s policy toward the Western Balkans has been shaped by the mantra of ‘stability at any cost.’ That often means preserving geopolitical balance to protect economic interests—even when that entails turning a blind eye to authoritarianism.”

Commenting on rising NATO defense spending, Joveva rejected the notion that this reflects a victory for U.S. President Donald Trump. Instead, she sees it as a growing consensus among EU member states to invest in their own security amidst increasing global uncertainty. In her view, the European Union must move beyond dependence on the United States and achieve true strategic autonomy—in both economic resilience and defense.

She also addressed a recently adopted European Parliament resolution on the remembrance of victims of Slovenia’s postwar communist regime. Joveva strongly condemned the politicization of such complex historical issues, particularly by opposition forces in Slovenia:

“It is unacceptable to weaponize sensitive historical topics for electioneering. Certain parties are distorting historical facts to build political capital—and that’s a disservice not just to the past, but to our democratic future.”

In this context, she criticized the European Union’s muted response to a controversial concert by Croatian singer Thompson in Zagreb. She reminded readers of Europe’s historic stance against extremist ideologies:‘“Europe once drew a clear line against glorifying ideologies like Nazism and fascism. We cannot afford to ignore such trends today—they must be explicitly condemned. The issue isn’t just the artist himself, but the social normalization of ideologies that should remain permanently discredited. Unfortunately, social media and sensationalist journalism have only fueled this trend. What’s especially disturbing is the attendance of a former Slovenian prime minister—a self-proclaimed ‘patriot’—who seemed to enjoy songs performed by an artist known for opening concerts with Ustasha salute.”

In relation to the Middle East, Joveva voiced deep concern over what she described as “the most documented genocide in modern history.” She expressed her disappointment at the lack of international resolve to establish a ceasefire and a path toward lasting peace:

“Some EU member states—Germany in particular—have chosen not to speak out in defense of the oppressed. The extent of the enforced pro-Israel stance is increasingly worrying. While I understand Germany’s historical burden, the way it’s attempting to ‘atone’ is taking things to the opposite extreme.”

Finally, when asked about Montenegro’s path to EU membership, Joveva expressed optimism. She praised the country’s recent progress, as reflected in the latest EU progress report, and highlighted the broad political consensus in support of integration.

“Montenegro has become a symbol that the European perspective for the Western Balkans is still alive. I’m confident it will become the EU’s 28th member state.”

The full interview is available at the following link.

“Can a person get used to war? Of course, they can. I got used to it. I don’t like it, but I did. I live according to the existing conditions, I work, think, eat… But – can a person get used to it and remain normal? That’s a more difficult question. A kind of Friday decided about Irma. I had long forgotten that there is such a thing as Friday, then the weekend, then holidays and similar things, and the month of August is ideal for sunbathing, swimming and similar joys of carefree people. For us, this does not exist. They assigned us another kind of sport. A game with death. Yours or someone else’s, but in the game there is always only one thing – to exist or not to exist. As if that is something. What is important? To survive at all costs? That is not important either. It is important to live as a human being, but if it doesn’t work, then nothing else matters. Not even to live. So go and do what you can to remain human. Otherwise, nothing will matter.”

You have read a passage from a book that I have been reading for months. Not because I could not spare those few minutes before going to bed, but because the personal story of the author of The Sarajevo Princess, doctor Edo Jaganjac, is so deeply moving that …

… it is difficult to comprehend. Is it really so difficult to be human in inhuman conditions? How is it possible that nothing is sacred, not even the lives of children and young people?

And today, when many – especially young people – are courageously standing up against autocracy, against the falsification of history and against dehumanization, it is crucial to understand that the crime in Srebrenica has a name. Genocide. This is not an opinion, but a fact confirmed in the courts.

With the responsibility of individuals – not of a nation.

This is a demand for responsibility – not collective guilt.

This is respect for the victims – and for all those who, within Serbia or anywhere else in this world, want a society without denial, without manipulation and without glorification of criminals.

This is a demand that heads not be turned when international humanitarian law is only valid on paper.

When even hunger is a deadly weapon.

When a child in Gaza, seeking only a sip of water, does not know if he will survive.

When a hospital or a refugee camp is no longer a protection or a refuge, but a potential trap.

When the international community is too late to prevent these atrocities. As it has been so many times before. As it was 30 years ago. Again.

The international legal order is collapsing not only under the weight of bombs, but also under the weight of indifference. Dehumanization. And with looking away.

“So go and do what you can to remain human. Otherwise, nothing will matter.”

 

On Tuesday, July 8, 2025, Slovenian Member of the European Parliament Irena Joveva took part in a plenary debate on the European Commission’s progress report on North Macedonia for the years 2023 and 2024. In a powerful and emotional speech, she reminded her colleagues that the report reflects the European journey of a candidate country and its people.

At the outset, Joveva emphasized that the purpose of the report is to monitor the progress of a candidate country that has, throughout its accession process, faced repeated instances of unjustified conditionality, political blockades, and disrespect. Despite these obstacles, she said, the people of North Macedonia have consistently upheld the values the EU claims to champion—perhaps more so than some current member states.

She was unequivocal in stating that the report must not, under any circumstances, become a forum for debating the existence of the Macedonian nation, its language, or identity:

“While I personally support the paragraph in question and will not vote to have it removed, I must be honest with the Macedonian people: I know it hurts. It hurts me, too. But do not accept the narrative that the European Parliament has taken your identity or language from you. That is simply not true.“

Joveva went on to condemn political manipulation and populist misinterpretations that exploit sensitive issues of identity to undermine both the EU enlargement process and public trust in European institutions. “The Macedonian language is authentic. Your attempts to deny it are modern-day fiction. A national identity that has endured for centuries will not be erased by one vote or your lobbying.”

She concluded her speech by reminding that the Macedonian nation does not need anyone else’s permission to exist.

Foto/EP: Brigitte HASE

On Tuesday, July 8, 2025, Slovenian Member of the European Parliament Irena Joveva took part in the European Parliament’s plenary session during a debate on the state of implementation of the European Media Freedom Act (EMFA) across EU Member States.

Joveva opened her remarks by stressing that EMFA stands as one of the cornerstone legislative achievements of the Parliament’s previous term. The act was developed in response to growing concerns over media interference and political pressure—concerns rooted not in theory, but in real, lived experiences, including her own country:

“This legislation was born out of necessity. It came as a response to direct political attacks—such as those by the Janša government on the Slovenian Press Agency and RTV Slovenia. Unfortunately. And when you experience this firsthand, you understand just how vital strong European safeguards really are.”

She warned that while the act is set to come fully into force in just one month, many Member States are failing to take its implementation seriously. Some have yet to begin preparations at all. In light of this, Joveva called on the European Commission to immediately initiate infringement proceedings against governments that are falling behind:

“Since the act’s adoption, media freedom has deteriorated in parts of the EU—Slovakia is just one example. And no media outlet anywhere in Europe is truly immune to political pressure. Media freedom is like any other freedom: once it’s suffocated, it’s incredibly hard to bring back. Its value only becomes clear when it’s gone.”

She also underlined that the EMFA includes a range of crucial safeguards: protection for journalists and editors from political interference, insulation from private interests, and limits on the unaccountable influence of digital platforms. But these guarantees, she stressed, are only as strong as the political will to enforce them:

“Provisions on paper are not enough. Without firm, consistent implementation—especially by the Commission—these safeguards risk remaining little more than principled declarations, devoid of real impact.”

On Monday, July 7, 2025, Slovenian MEP Irena Joveva addressed the European Parliament during a heated plenary debate ahead of a vote on the resolution “On the remembrance of victims of the post-war communist period in Slovenia.” Her intervention was a sharp condemnation of what she described as a dangerous political rewriting of history: “They love their homeland so much that they’re ready to sell it. Much like they would change the historical truth.”

Joveva began by placing the debate in a broader geopolitical context. While the world is facing wars, genocide, and the unraveling of liberal democracy—with equality reduced to a mere illusion—some MEPs, she argued, have chosen instead to distort Slovenia’s past by promoting a historically inaccurate resolution aimed at rewriting its post-war period.

She strongly denounced this deliberate political instrumentalization of history, calling it a form of cynicism of the lowest kind. In her speech, she pointed out the glaring hypocrisy of those supporting the resolution:

“The resolution is being endorsed, for example, by those in Austria who question Slovenia’s territorial integrity through their national anthem. And by those who, over the weekend, shouted that they are prepared at the concert. So these so-called Slovenian patriots love their country so much—they’re ready to sell it.”

Joveva emphasized that such actions are not about honoring victims or upholding dignity, but are instead a calculated attempt to reshape historical narratives to serve narrow political agendas:

”They are prepared. They’ve begun rewriting history. And they will continue by tearing down everything we once took for granted in the European Union.”

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What we are witnessing is not patriotic —it is a series of unnecessary and harmful provocations that run counter to the spirit of the European Union.

It is natural for every country to take pride in its history, language, symbols, and traditions. That cultural richness is a cornerstone of Europe’s diversity and shared identity. But historical facts are clear—and so are their often painful consequences. Precisely because of this, at a time when Europe is increasingly confronted with dangerous nationalist tendencies, historical distortion, and divisive rhetoric, we must demonstrate greater political maturity and responsibility.

There is no place in Europe for one-sided provocations that deepen mistrust and sow division within the European community.

This is not merely a matter of symbolism. The impact is most acutely felt by the Slovene minority in Austria, which has long—and rightfully—voiced concern about its increasingly precarious position.

We believe that such actions by certain Austrian politicians represent a step backward. And we are convinced there are better, more constructive ways to express one’s patriotism.

Europe cannot—and must not—become an arena for competing, aggressive interpretations of the past. The European project is built on cooperation, mutual respect, and shared responsibility. Provocations that serve narrow domestic political interests at the expense of our common European future have no place in the Union—a Union founded precisely to prevent territorial ambitions and hostile nationalism from ever taking root again.

“You can’t imagine how toxic it all is. It’s unbearable. And the ‘big macho’ is losing his grip on reality.”

“It’s not easy. It’s not pretty. And it’s going to get harder. Uglier. But… if the will of the people is strong enough, it cannot be stopped. And that will—finally—is growing stronger. Hope still lives.”

These are just some of the voices we heard during our fact-finding mission to Hungary. We saw, with our own eyes, what is happening on the ground with projects funded by EU money. Public good? Not quite. More like: “All of this belongs to me.” Or at best, “to my family and friends.”


And that’s still acceptable—apparently. But for the public? So that citizens might benefit from these projects? From anything at all we’re doing?


Forget it.

That’s the mindset—and more importantly, the modus operandi—of those in power in Hungary. But you know what? Hope truly does die last. And democracy in Hungary is not dead yet.

That’s why this mission was so important. Because it confirmed, unfortunately, just how crucial it is not to give in to the Hungarian government.

And yet we’re seeing a weakening of the EU’s political resolve, including in the suspension of EU funds directed at Hungary—a necessary but uncomfortable step. Why is this resolve fading? Let’s be honest: political calculation. The usual games, which I’m used to by now, but that doesn’t mean I’ll ever accept them.

Just like I won’t accept being told to “stay quiet” when fundamental rights are being violated. Even such a basic one as the freedom of assembly.

That’s why I’m speaking up—clearly and loudly—to express my full and unconditional support for tomorrow’s Pride Parade in Budapest. With all my heart and soul.

Oh, and one last thing—you figured out who the “big macho” is, didn’t you?
Yes, the one who underestimates the power of the people’s will.
So to the people, I say: You’ve got this.
Show it tomorrow.

You’ve got this.

On the day when the world watches the dangerous absurdities of leaders who genuinely believe the world exists solely for their own power…

…on the eve of Slovenia’s Statehood Day, a day long dreamed of by generations before us—generations whose persistence and courage laid the foundations of our Republic…

…we find ourselves dealing with efforts to revise historical truth.

Wonderful. Truly.

Today, the European Parliament’s Committee on Petitions adopted a resolution on the remembrance of victims of the post-war communist period in Slovenia—a text that is anything but an honest or balanced reckoning with the past.

A text that deliberately omits the key context of World War II.
Yes, today we are debating World War II.

Wonderful. Truly.

A text that simplistically equates resistance to fascist occupation with “communist violence.”

A text offering a distorted version of history—the very version that Slovenia’s SDS party has used since its founding to divide, to campaign, and to fuel its political program.

And the greatest irony?


This resolution was passed with votes from parties like Germany’s AfD, Italy’s Brothers of Italy, Austria’s Freedom Party, and Hungary’s Fidesz.


So much for reconciliation.

Because it’s easier to ignore certain historical facts—and reshape others to allow for selective amnesia—and then, for good measure, exploit parliamentary procedures in the process.

Wonderful. Truly.

It’s also ironic that the final version of the resolution included proposals from our own political group, Renew Europe, calling for the condemnation of collaboration, revisionism, and the unacceptability of using history for political gain. Which, in itself, is genuinely commendable—this part I do mean seriously. And yet, this very inclusion makes the resolution logically inconsistent—a contradiction in terms, both historically and politically.

Let’s be clear: No one is excusing or denying post-war atrocities.
But the political exploitation of painful and still-traumatic historical events in such a manipulative and inflammatory way is simply low and indecent. I wish this chapter could be closed once and for all. But this resolution only reinforces what many of us already know: SDS is not interested in reconciliation.

And for all the smearing, Slovenia has nothing to be ashamed of. The fight for national freedom against Nazi occupation will never—morally or historically—be wrong.

The European Union, meanwhile, has a lot on its plate. Challenges that are, let’s say… less than 80 years old. So to my fellow colleagues, especially those in the largest political group in this Parliament: perhaps you could use your position to do something constructive—for Slovenia and for the EU.

It might do you some good to engage with the present and the future, sincerely and honestly, without historical revisionism, ideological divisions, or conspiracy theories.

And above all, it would do our beautiful country some real good.

Because that would actually be…
Wonderful. Truly.

 

On Wednesday, June 18, 2025, Member of the European Parliament Irena Joveva participated in the European Parliament’s plenary debate on halting the genocide in Gaza and the possibility of EU sanctions. “Finally. With the title of this debate, this chamber is officially acknowledging what some of us have been saying for years. What is happening in Gaza is genocide,” she declared.

In her address, Joveva took a hard line against those who, despite daily reports of atrocities, continue to justify Israel’s actions or ignore the international community’s responsibility to halt the genocide:

“Those of you who still refuse to see it, who continue to hide behind courts or legal technicalities, are not just complicit. You are shameless hypocrites. You are undermining the very legal foundations you so proudly claim to defend.”

She also condemned the political manipulation and distraction tactics surrounding Israel’s attacks on Iran—launched, notably, just as domestic and international pressure on Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu was mounting.

“A coincidence, is it? /…/ And then some still dare to speak of Israel’s right to self-defense ‘in this context.’ What context? The Israeli army is shooting at people standing in line for food. These are not stray bullets in the fog of war. This is deliberate, cold, calculated. Even the little humanitarian aid that makes it through is being turned into a deadly weapon.”

In light of all this, Joveva issued a clear and urgent call for decisive EU action.

“Stop. Do not be complicit. Impose sanctions on Israel. If you don’t, you continue to support genocide. If only one side has an army, equipment, and weapons… this is not a war. This is a massacre.”