The three constitutionally recognized autochthonous national minorities in Slovenia (Hungarians, Italians and Roma) enjoy a privileged status in comparison with the other minority ethnic groups that originate from the territories of former Yugoslavia and who greatly outnumbered those traditional national communities. National legislation, case law as well as the practices of national authorities that should provide for a successful accommodation of minority ethnic groups are examined in this paper in order to gain understanding whether Slovenia's accession to the European Union has enhanced the level of a minority protection in the country.