The European Parliament has called on the European Commission to take stronger action against concerns over democratic backsliding, rule of law violations, and alleged misuse
of EU funds in Slovakia, warning that the country’s recent reforms may pose a serious risk to EU values.
In a resolution adopted on Wednesday, Members of the European Parliament voted 347 in favour, 165 against, and 25 abstentions to express “deep concern” over what they describe as a continued deterioration of democracy, judicial independence, and fundamental rights in Slovakia. Lawmakers urged the European Commission to assess whether there is a clear risk of a serious breach of the EU’s foundational values and to deploy all available legal and financial tools, including infringement procedures and the rule-of-law conditionality mechanism.
Concerns over legal and institutional reforms
MEPs focused heavily on recent changes to criminal law and governance structures in Slovakia, including reforms that reportedly weaken anti-corruption safeguards. These include less stringent rules on corruption cases, the closure of specialised anti-corruption bodies, and reports of pressure on former investigators involved in such cases.
Lawmakers also raised alarm over constitutional amendments they say could restrict fundamental rights and challenge the primacy of EU law. Another concern highlighted was the attempted abolition of Slovakia’s whistleblower protection office, which MEPs argue could further weaken institutional checks and balances.
The European Commission and the Council of Europe were urged to ensure that recommendations on judicial independence and anti-corruption standards are fully implemented. Questions were also raised about the functioning of Slovakia’s agricultural payment agency and allegations that EU rural development and tourism funds may have been misused for private luxury property projects.
Media freedom and civil society under pressure
The resolution also points to what MEPs describe as a worsening climate for media freedom in Slovakia, citing political interference in public service broadcasting and increasing pressure on journalists and civil society organisations.
Lawmakers expressed concern about reported restrictions affecting vulnerable groups, including women and LGBTIQ+ people, and called for stronger protections against violence against women as well as guaranteed access to sexual and reproductive health services.
MEPs further criticised the treatment of minority communities, including Slovakia’s Roma population and Hungarian minority, citing concerns over the use of EU funds and reports of property confiscations linked to historical decrees. They urged authorities to halt any retroactive measures based on collective guilt and to ensure equal rights protections across all communities.
Electoral rights and diaspora voting
The Parliament also addressed proposed changes affecting electoral participation, warning that planned restrictions on postal voting could limit the rights of Slovak citizens living abroad. MEPs stressed that equal access to democratic participation must be safeguarded regardless of residence.
Background to escalating tensions
The resolution follows a series of concerns raised by MEP delegations visiting Slovakia, who reported potential risks to EU financial interests and democratic standards. Earlier statements from the European Parliament had already called for closer scrutiny of EU fund management in the country.
In April 2026, lawmakers urged the Commission to consider activating the EU’s rule of law conditionality mechanism in relation to Slovakia as part of broader oversight of EU budget implementation.
The latest vote signals a continued hardening of tone in Brussels, with the European Parliament pressing for more decisive enforcement action to safeguard EU values and financial interests.