A new tool is available allowing individuals to simulate a national budget, effectively becoming a virtual finance minister. The initiative, launched by an independent think tank, aims to provide better guidance for national policy decisions. Behind the project are two of Slovenia’s wealthiest individuals, Boštjan Bandelj and Jure Knez, entrepreneurs investing in the development of public policy with the goal of improving the country’s growth.
The tool doesn’t replace political decisions, but increasingly directs them. The central question remains: to whose benefit do these simulations serve? Sonja Šmuc, director of the Development Institute, explained the tool’s functionality and addressed questions regarding the consequences of tax reductions, identifying potential budget shortfalls, and the feasibility of simultaneously reducing taxes and increasing public services.
The institute is exploring the question of whether tax cuts should precede improvements in government efficiency. The core issue revolves around prioritizing economic stimulus versus bolstering the effectiveness of state services.
