The developments in the rule of law and the fight against corruption in Slovakia are deeply concerning. Independent media and civil society are reporting that they are being pressured and intimidated by the Fico government. The European Union will need to respond to the current situation in the country to stop this negative trend. These are the main findings of my trip to Bratislava this week. Together with a delegation from the European Parliament’s Committee on Budgetary Control, I traveled to Slovakia. We spoke with journalists as well as representatives from civil society, the opposition, and the government to analyze the current state of rule of law and anti-corruption efforts. Previously, we had received alarming reports of corruption cases, and numerous suspicions have yet to be cleared up.

A Tense Atmosphere

The visit took place under tense political circumstances. Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico is considered pro-Kremlin and has complicated the EU’s sanctions against Russia. He was the only EU head of government to attend the “Victory Parade” in Moscow in early May. Our visit to Bratislava was closely monitored domestically, and the ruling party SMER even interpreted it as a political attack. Additionally, Prime Minister Fico engaged in a remote duel with Friedrich Merz, after the German Chancellor leader floated the idea of freezing EU funds. In short: the political atmosphere was highly charged.

Press and Civil Society Under Pressure

A crucial clarification in advance: Slovakia is not Hungary. The rule of law and the critical public remain largely intact. Yet, I see some developments with great concern. I heard from both journalists and civil society representatives that they are being politically pressured, even intimidated. This cannot and must not happen! In Slovakia, journalist Ján Kuciak was murdered seven years ago. The EU must ensure that journalists can do their work without fearing for their health or even their lives.

Corruption Mirroring the Hungarian Model

The setbacks in anti-corruption efforts are most tangible in Slovakia. In 2024, the special prosecutor’s office for corruption investigations was abolished by the Fico government. As a result, investigations into corruption suspicions have sharply declined. Corruption—especially involving EU funds—is a problem that has been repeatedly pointed out to us. There have been multiple instances of EU funds being misused to build or renovate private luxury villas. The parallels with Hungary under Viktor Orbán are particularly striking here.

Financial Sanctions for the Fico Government?

The political developments in Slovakia are clearly moving in the wrong direction. It is evident that the Fico government is pursuing a course that puts democracy and the rule of law under pressure while simultaneously hindering the fight against corruption. The EU must intervene early to prevent the development of a second Hungary. The European Commission has the option of freezing financial aid if there are indications that EU funds are at risk—and this instrument can also be used preventively. I see the conditions for this clearly met in Slovakia. We must act decisively now, including freezing at-risk EU funds.

Next week, I will also participate in another mission of the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs to Slovakia. I will, of course, keep you informed!