PM Fico Tells McGrath That Slovakia Must React to Rule of Law Violations

Bratislava, 23 March (TASR) - Prime Minister Robert Fico (Smer-SD) said during his talks with European Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law and Consumer Protection Michael McGrath that Slovakia is still going through the trauma of the 2020–23 period marked by gross violations of the rule of law, the Government Office published on social media on Monday. Fico went on to say that Slovakia doesn't wish to continue that tradition but must respond to those violations primarily through legislation. The Government Office noted that the premier seeks a constructive dialogue regarding the European Commission's activities towards Slovakia. He reaffirmed that the European Union is a vital space for Slovakia, while he also stressed that Europe is currently facing the deepest crisis in its history. During his meeting, Fico focused primarily on the political framework of cooperation between the Slovak government and the commissioner, while leaving technical issues to Justice Minister Boris Susko (Smer-SD). Commissioner McGrath stated that he spoke with Fico about ongoing infringement proceedings initiated by the EC against Slovakia, including recent changes to whistleblower protection legislation. "In connection with this law, I welcomed the government's decision to repeal the recent amendments and restore the previous legal framework, while this repeal was officially signed today by the Slovak president. We will now thoroughly assess the effects of this repeal," said McGrath. According to him, they both agreed that open and constructive dialogue is essential for following up on recommendations from the 2025 Rule of Law Report and for preparing the next edition. McGrath has arrived in Bratislava to discuss the rule of law with top government officials and representatives of civil society organisation as part of the EC's ongoing preparations for the 2026 Rule of Law Report. On Tuesday (24 March), he is due to present the 2025 Rule of Law Report to MPs from three parliamentary committees and discuss measures taken in follow-up to the recommendations in the report. He will also discuss the state of the rule of law, the EU Strategy for Civil Society, and the European Media Freedom Act with civil society representatives, and is due to attend a meeting dedicated to the media sector. jrg