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As many as 93.2% of eligible voters cast their ballots in the independence plebiscite 23 years ago, 95% of them voting in favour of independence, which means that 88.5% of all eligible voters opted for independence.

The result of the popular referendum was clear soon after the polls closed on 23 December 1990, but was not officially declared until three days later. In memory of that day, Slovenia observes Independence and Unity Day on 26 December.

An important aspect of Slovenia's breakaway from the former federation, the Constitution was declared by the then assembly on 23 December 1991.

The Constitution was drafted by a group of experts headed by Peter Jambrek. Since its adoption, the document has been amended nine times, three of which introduced only minor changes.

The first major change was in 1997, when Slovenia pledged to enable foreigners to become owners of real estate in Slovenia, as a result of which Italy unblocked Slovenia's accession to the EU.

Other major changes included transferring part of authorities to international organisations in 2003 for the purpose of accession to the EU and NATO, and creating the legal basis in 2006 for establishment of provinces, which have not been formed to date.

The latest two changes were passed earlier this year to adopt the fiscal rule of zero deficits and restrict the right to demand a referendum.

The Constitutional Court marked Constitution Day with a ceremony on Thursday. In his address chief justice Miroslav Mozetič said that respecting human rights guaranteed in the Constitution laid the groundwork of freedom, justice and peace in the country.