Introductory Explanations to ZUP-I as a Key to Understanding Changes to Administrative Procedure

The ZUP-I amendment to the Slovenian General Administrative Procedure Act (ZUP), adopted in October 2025, represents one of the most extensive updates to administrative procedure in recent years. The basic concept of the ZUP is preserved, while numerous solutions have been introduced to streamline and accelerate procedures. The main changes concern submissions by parties, recording minutes, the use of language in proceedings, and revised rules on service of documents. The amendment also introduces new legal instruments such as the so-called informative decision, an abridged statement of reasons, and the waiver of the right to judicial review, all of which are intended to facilitate faster decision-making. Although ZUP-I introduces many welcome changes, some may also give rise to difficulties or complications in practice. Experts in administrative law critically assess the systemic effects of the amendment in the Introductory Explanations to ZUP-I and identify challenges that will require further development of ZUP.

Keywords: administrative procedure, ZUP-I amendment, service of documents, administrative decision, legal remedies, fact-finding proceedings, digitalisation of public administration, classified information, informative decision.