EC: Quality of Life in Slovakia Has Significantly Improved Since Joining EU

Bratislava, May 1 (TASR) - Marking the 21st anniversary of Slovakia joining the EU, the European Commission's (EC) Representation in Slovakia highlighted that quality of life has significantly improved thanks to EU funds supporting economic growth and public investment, adding that a December Eurobarometer survey showed that 53 percent of Slovaks trust the EU and two-thirds feel connected to it. "For 21 years, we've been part of Europe, built on the pillars of freedom, democracy, peaceful coexistence, and respect for human dignity. EU membership has brought Slovakia not only economic growth and stability, but also the assurance that we can face major challenges together," said acting head of the European Commission Representation in Slovakia Radim Dvorak. He believes that Slovakia is now also helping to shape Europe's future. The EC noted that between 2004 and 2022, Slovakia received over €36 billion from the EU, with the total exceeding €38 billion when including the recovery plan, funding hundreds of projects in areas such as regional development, transport, education, science, healthcare, and the environment. In the 2021–2027 period, Slovakia can access a further €13 billion from EU funds. Since joining the EU, Slovakia has experienced steady economic growth, with gross national income rising by an average of 7 percent annually and GDP per capita increasing from 59 percent of the EU average in 2004 to 71 percent in 2022, the EC added. lin