European Commission Warns Slovakia Over NGO Law

The European Commission has threatened legal action against Slovakia if it enacts a law requiring NGOs receiving foreign funds to label themselves as 'organisations with foreign support'. Vice President Vera Jourova highlighted past conflicts with Hungary and Poland over similar laws, emphasizing the Commission's stance on rule-of-law compliance.

The European Commission has issued a stern warning to Slovakia, threatening immediate legal action if the country proceeds with a proposed law aimed at NGOs receiving foreign funding. The bill mandates these organizations to label themselves as 'organisations with foreign support'.

European Commission Vice President Vera Jourova was unequivocal in her stance during a visit to Bratislava. She stated that any move resembling Hungary's past legislation on foreign-funded NGOs would trigger an infringement procedure under EU law, referencing prior court rulings on the matter.

Slovakia's government, led by Prime Minister Robert Fico, has come under scrutiny for various policies, including changes to the criminal code and its pivot towards Russia in foreign affairs. While Fico acknowledged the recommendations from the EU's annual rule of law report, he attributed some of the criticism to disagreements on foreign policy.

(With inputs from agencies.)