Boris Kidrič

There aren’t too many tributes to Yugoslavia or communism left here in Ljubljana, but across the street from our apartment a prominent statue of Boris Kidrič remains.  Kidrič was a leader in the Communist Party of Slovenia and in the Partisan resistance against German occupation during World War II.  We have read and heard that because the Partisans were communist, there was a somewhat ironic support of the Nazis by many business and religious groups here (I was actually fortunate enough to have had dinner with a member of the Partisans last year).  As a result, Kidrič is labeled a hero by some for his efforts during the war and a villain by others for his role in establishing the Yugoslav government.  We have also heard that leaders here would prefer to have the statue removed and that the only reason it is still standing is that it is on private property (but don’t quote us on that).  In any event, we think Mr. Kidrič might be amused that, seventy years after his death and twenty years after the end of communism here, kids (and adults) are still emulating his likeness.