News

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

As democratic norms face mounting pressure in the Western Balkans and Eastern Partnership 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.

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.

[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.

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.

Slovak Media at a Chokehold but Resilient

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.

[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.

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.

[SCIENCE+] We know better

Increasing distrust of the media is a problem that could undermine democracy as such – but is it really true? And if so, how do people form opinions in such atmosphere? How do they choose the source and what influences them?

Freedom Lecture 2023: Free and Fair Elections in Digital Times

The Freedom Lecture 2023 focused on global challenges to democracy, the importance of transatlantic partnership, Slovakia's democratic struggles, impact of ICT on elections and vulnerability to foreign interference.

Breaking Barriers and Building Bridges: How Slovak Media Empowers Ukrainian Refugees

Media hold the means to counter suspicion, fear and social stigmas. MEMO 98 partners with Slovak media to give voice to Ukrainians and to achieve greater diversity within refugee-related media coverage.

[PATFox] Anti-SLAPP Curriculum

Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPP) predstavujú rastúcu hrozbu pre slobodu prejavu a verejnú diskusiu. O čo v SLAPP žalobách ide, ako sa na ne pripraviť a ako im čeliť?