Thousands of Slovaks rallied in Bratislava on Sunday to protest Prime Minister Robert Fico's government, accusing it of undermining democratic freedoms.
The demonstration, coinciding with the 35th anniversary of the Velvet Revolution, united a broad coalition of opposition groups in a show of dissent. This was reported by the news agency Associated Press.
A Symbolic Protest
The protest’s timing was deliberate, marking Slovakia’s transition from communist rule to democracy in 1989. Protesters held signs proclaiming, “The government is taking away our freedom and democracy.”
František Mikloško, a key figure in the Velvet Revolution, delivered a powerful speech.
“Slovakia is and will remain part of Western civilization. We do not want to be pushed toward Moscow,” he declared, drawing cheers from the crowd.
The rally brought together political forces spanning the ideological spectrum, including Progressive Slovakia, Freedom and Solidarity, and the Christian Democrats.
Michal Šimečka, leader of Progressive Slovakia and head of the country’s most popular party, vowed to protect democratic principles.
“Free people will not stay silent,” Šimečka said.
Branislav Gröhling of Freedom and Solidarity accused Fico of steering Slovakia toward authoritarianism akin to Russia and China.
Controversial Policies Spark Outrage
Criticism of Fico’s leftist Smer (Direction-Social Democracy) government centers on proposed reforms that opponents argue could weaken democratic institutions. Revisions to public broadcasting rules and the criminal code are viewed as attempts to tighten state control over media and dismantle anti-corruption structures.
Fico’s government has also faced backlash over its international stance, including halting military aid to Ukraine, opposing EU sanctions on Russia, and resisting Ukraine’s NATO membership.
His recent interview with Russian state media, where he expressed Kremlin-aligned positions, added fuel to public discontent.
Critics warn that Fico’s policies align Slovakia more closely with authoritarian regimes. Opposition leaders have pointed to “politically motivated purges” in key ministries and accused the government of cracking down on dissent.
To address rising tensions, the Interior Ministry has ramped up security measures for government officials.
