Slovak Government Rebuts European Commission's Rule of Law Criticism

The Slovak government has dismissed European Commission criticisms over rule of law in the country as misleading. The Commission's concerns focus on criminal law reforms, judicial and media independence, and anti-corruption measures. The government, led by Prime Minister Robert Fico, argues it was not given a chance to respond to the criticisms.

The Slovak government has strongly rejected criticisms from the European Commission regarding the state's adherence to the rule of law, calling the claims misleading and unbalanced.

The European Commission's report highlighted concerns over criminal law reforms, the dissolution of a key anti-corruption unit, and threats to judicial and media independence. Despite discussions with the Commission, the Slovak government contends it was not provided an opportunity to address information sourced from third parties.

Prime Minister Robert Fico's administration, which has been facing opposition and protests since its rise to power in October 2023, insists that efforts to combat corruption remain firm despite planned governance changes. The government is also facing EU scrutiny over proposed legislation requiring NGOs receiving foreign funds to register as 'foreign agents'.

(With inputs from agencies.)