Commission member Ivan Stuhec pointed out that the Catholic Church would not advise people on which party to vote for but merely give general guidelines based on which "every sensible human being" will be able to make their own decision.

The Church's position is summed up in a document titled "Make Your Voice Heard! Responsible for the Life and Future of Slovenia 2011", which was presented today.

Mojca Perat of the Council of Catholic Laymen said people's participation in election was the core of democracy while those not turning out for the polls indulge the capital and the centres of power.

Perat added that the document stated that active citizens should strive to support parties which have serious and comprehensive programmes.

A call for responsibility to the citizens also came from the Slovenian Karitas at today's conference, with Jozica Licen of the charity stressing that people should read the parties' programmes and look at their candidates' past achievements.

The Church's document highlights the respect for human life and dignity since inception to natural death. It also emphasises the protection of marriage and family, the poor and elderly people, respect for the principle of justice and equality, democratic upbringing, and world peace.