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Slovakia Slovakia

343

The Two Faces of Elections: The Democracy vs. Populism Paradox

Elections should protect democracy – but increasingly, they are used to undermine it. In this Visegrad Insight long-read, Dr. Beata Martin-Rozumiłowicz and Rasťo Kužel examine how populists in Poland, Slovakia and the US exploit elections to gain power and erode institutions. They highlight why defending electoral integrity and rebuilding public trust are now more vital than ever.

Rasťo Kužel
Slovakia Slovakia

514

[Digital News Report 2025 - Slovakia] Public Broadcaster's State Capture. Its Trust has Rapidly Declined

Overall trust in the Slovak traditional media brands saw a general decline. Nevertheless, 10 out of 15 monitored brands still enjoy higher trust than distrust. At the same time, 4 out 5 more distrusted media are tabloids. In an alarming fashion, Slovakia’s public broadcaster (STVR) marked the biggest fall of trust – by 8 per cent – as a result of its effective capture by the state.

Ivan Godársky
Slovakia Slovakia

393

MEMO 98 Launches Regional Initiative with the support of UNESCO to Strengthen Climate and Disaster Reporting in the Western Balkans

MEMO 98 has launched a new regional initiative to strengthen climate and disaster reporting in North Macedonia and Montenegro. Running from April to December 2025, the program aims to equip local media with the tools, training, and editorial support needed to deliver impactful, data-driven journalism on environmental challenges—while also enhancing institutional readiness through UNESCO’s Disaster Preparedness and Response Plan.

Rasťo Kužel
North Macedonia North Macedonia

488

Monitoring Electoral Promises: Tools and Partnerships for Greater Accountability

How can we ensure that campaign promises don’t vanish after election day? In a joint expert meeting in Skopje, civil society organizations and international specialists explored tools and strategies to monitor electoral promises and government actions. The goal: greater transparency, accountability, and trust in democracy.

Rasťo Kužel
Czech Republic Czech Republic

604

Addressing Common Threats to Democracy in the Western Balkans and Eastern Partnership Countries

As democratic norms face mounting pressure in these countries, MEMO 98 has joined forces with Forum 2000 and other leading organizations to identify shared challenges and strengthen civil society responses. A newly published discussion paper outlines key threats—including rising populism, media repression, and geopolitical manipulation—and marks the first step in a collaborative effort to defend democracy where it is most at risk.

Rasťo Kužel
Slovakia Slovakia

788

President Pellegrini signed the anti-NGO law. Ombudsman reacted and challenges its constitutionality

The anti-NGO ("Russian law") may mean a disproportionate interference in the privacy of active citizens, and a significant administrative burden for civil organisations. The Ombudsman considers the law discriminatory and files a motion to the Constitutional Court.

Ivan Godársky
Slovakia Slovakia

534

[Press Freedom Index 2025] SLOVAKIA IS FALLING

RSF in its assessment downgraded Slovakia from 29th to 38th. Since the 2023 parliamentary elections, the Robert Fico's government has been deliberately creating a hostile environment for independent journalism. In addition, the instigator of the 2018 murder of Ján Kuciak and his fianceé has yet to be convicted.

Ivan Godársky
Russia Russia

1250

Russian Influence Operation in Kenya & South Africa

The report investigates Russian influence operations in Kenya and South Africa, revealing the use of Facebook to disseminate pro-Kremlin propaganda and manipulate public opinion.

Rasťo Kužel
Slovakia Slovakia

1019

Slovak Media at a Chokehold but Resilient

In an interview for Civicus, Rasťo Kužel discusses the alarming developments in Slovakia

Rasťo Kužel
European Union European Union

973

Election Assessment Mission to the 2024 EP Elections

The Election Assessment Mission deployed by the Election-Watch presented its Preliminary Statement, evaluating the European Parliament elections. MEMO 98 took part as a focal point for Slovakia.

Ivan Godársky
European Union European Union

1068

[EP elections] Pre-election Assessment Mission Report

The PEAM Report evaluates the preparations for the European Parliament elections. On 10 June, the Mission will present its Preliminary Statement in Brussels (information inside). MEMO 98 takes part as a focal point for Slovakia.

Ivan Godársky
Slovakia Slovakia

935

The capture of RTVS represents a direct assault on media freedom

We urge EU institutions and other international bodies to utilise their powers to safeguard media freedom in Slovakia.

Rasťo Kužel