The Relationship between the Mayor and Deputy-Mayor in the Slovenian Local Self-Government System

Abstract

The paper analyses the question of relations between the mayor and deputymayor, particularly in terms of division of competences. The paper also deals with the standpoints of mayors and deputy-mayors regarding the institution of deputy-mayor. Furthermore, it verifies the assumption that the current regulatory framework regarding the appointment (and determination of competences) of the deputy-mayor is not entirely appropriate. Based on the analysis of objective data and research surveys among mayors and deputy-mayors of Slovenian municipalities, we analyse the problems of the functioning of those players. We learn that the current Slovenian legislation is favourable to consolidating the position and power of the mayor, because he/she can freely appoint and determine competences of the deputy- mayor(s).