This week in Slovakia
Slovakia's political landscape is under intense scrutiny this week, with Deputy Speaker Tibor Gašpar warning of potential politically motivated assassinations amid a tense environment where the European Parliament is set to vote on the rule of law in the country. Domestically, headlines focused on a former Smer member receiving a suspended sentence due to government legal changes, alleged payments to a pro-government influencer, and internal coalition dynamics highlighting Prime Minister Fico's power. Meanwhile, Slovakia also engaged in discussions with China regarding investments and direct flights.
About Slovakia
Slovakia, a Central European nation, boasts a rich history, diverse landscapes from the Carpathian Mountains to the Danube River, and a vibrant cultural heritage. As a democracy, it upholds a free press, though the 2018 murder of journalist Jan Kuciak underscored persistent political pressures and media vulnerabilities. The country navigates its post-communist transition while integrating further into the European Union.
Visiting Slovakia
Media landscape
Slovakia's media environment is generally free, but faces growing political pressures and concerns over media ownership concentration. Television remains a primary source of news for a significant portion of the population.
Seek out a variety of news sources, including independent online portals, to gain a comprehensive understanding of Slovak perspectives and issues.
Sources we track 1
Bayer Wins U.S. Lawsuit Over Roundup Herbicide Use
- Bayer has won a lawsuit in the United States concerning the use of its Roundup herbicide. - The company faced lawsuits alleging failure to warn about cancer risks associated with the product. - The …
Panama City to Use 'Boots' on Illegally Parked Cars
- Panama City will implement a "boot" immobilization system to combat illegal parking in public spaces like sidewalks and green areas. - The measure aims to reclaim public spaces for pedestrians and i…
Is the oldest crater three billion years old? Mineral clocks reveal clues
- Scientists are investigating whether the oldest known impact crater on Earth is three billion years old. - The crater's age was determined using mineral dating techniques. - If confirmed, the findin…
The Physics of Money: Chaos, Fractals, and the Domino Effect in Banking
- The article explores the physics behind money, drawing parallels between the random movement of particles and the fluctuations of financial markets. - It suggests that concepts like chaos theory and…
Nearly 80% of Slovak Hospitals Paid Solely Based on Real Services, Says VšZP Director
- Nearly 80 percent of hospitals in Slovakia are now paid based solely on actual services rendered. - This payment model aims to align hospital finances with the volume and type of medical procedures …
Still No Summer Job? 54 People Compete for One Position; Beware of Overtime and Verbal Agreements
- The article provides practical advice for young people seeking summer employment in Slovakia. - It highlights the intense competition for available positions, with one role attracting 54 applicants.…
Psychotherapist Páneková: Therapy Teaches Us to Perceive Complex Feelings for Loved Ones, Including Love and Anger
- Psychotherapist Páneková explains that therapy helps individuals perceive complex feelings towards loved ones. - Patients learn to acknowledge and accept both love and anger simultaneously. - The pr…
London Plans Major Surveillance Tech Expansion, Including Drones and AI
- London plans to expand its use of surveillance technologies, including drones and artificial intelligence. - Human rights advocates express concerns about the potential for mass surveillance. - The …
Cynical Jargon: Official Government Eloquence
- The article discusses the use of "cynical jargon" in official government communication. - It suggests that linguistic sensitivity has found its way into coalition ranks. - The piece is titled 'Cynic…
Slovak farmers and environmentalists reject GM food deregulation
- Farmers and environmentalists in Slovakia reject the deregulation of genetically modified (GM) food. - They argue that the deregulation promises of increased resilience are unproven and potentially …
When Tractors Play First Fiddle and Actors Pull the Plow (writes Veronika Šikulová)
- The article reflects on the current state of Slovak theater and the arts, contrasting it with the perceived lack of recognition and support. - It critiques the Minister of Culture's actions, suggest…
Highly contagious H5 bird flu strain detected in second Australian state
- A highly contagious strain of bird flu, H5, has been detected in a second Australian state. - The virus has been found in wild birds in Tasmania, marking its first detection in the state. - Authorit…
China's Premier Calls for Better AI Oversight to Prevent Loss of Control
- Chinese Premier Li Qiang called for enhanced oversight of artificial intelligence to prevent humanity from losing control. - Concerns are growing about AI's impact on the job market and potential se…
China's LineShine Tops Supercomputer Rankings, Surpassing US
- China's supercomputer, LineShine, has surpassed the US in speed, topping the latest TOP500 list. - LineShine exclusively uses chips developed in China, marking a significant achievement in the count…
Trains Halted Across Germany Due to Radio Link Failure
- All train services across Germany were halted Tuesday evening due to a failure in the GSM-R radio communication system. - The cause of the technical issue is currently unknown, and Deutsche Bahn tec…
Labor inspectors warn Slovak Minister Tomáš: 'We will protect ourselves if you don't act'
- Slovak Minister Tomáš received an official letter from labor inspectors. - The letter warns of protective measures if the minister does not act. - The full text of the open letter has been published…
Cynical Monster: Transaction Tax in Context
- The article discusses the concept of a "transaction tax" in Slovakia. - It suggests that such a tax, despite potential difficulties, could be meaningful for businesses. - The title implies a critica…
Slovaks hold billions in zero-interest accounts; money market funds offer flexible returns
- Slovaks are holding billions of euros in bank accounts without earning any interest. - Money market funds offer a way to achieve returns while maintaining flexibility. - These funds can provide yiel…
AI could soon bypass cybersecurity systems, Five Eyes alliance warns
- An alliance of intelligence agencies known as Five Eyes has warned that artificial intelligence could soon surpass current cybersecurity knowledge. - The risk of AI-enhanced hacking has increased si…
Movement in cancer care is not just leisure, but can extend life
- Physical activity should be viewed as an integral part of a comprehensive cancer treatment strategy. - Movement can potentially extend the lives of cancer patients. - Experts emphasize that exercise…
Additional Suspects Arrested in Slovakia Over Planned Attack at D.C. MMA Event
- Slovak authorities have arrested additional suspects in connection with a planned attack during an MMA event in Washington D.C. - The U.S. Department of Justice announced charges against five men on…
US federal judge overturns subpoenas in Minnesota immigration raid case
- A federal judge in the U.S. has overturned subpoenas issued in an immigration raid case in Minnesota. - The judge ruled that the subpoenas were politically motivated retaliation. - The ruling impact…
Trump again criticizes NATO, threatens to withhold aid to allies who don't pay up
- Donald Trump renewed his criticism of NATO, threatening not to defend allies if they do not meet defense spending obligations. - He also directed criticism at British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. - …
Four children killed in military ammunition explosion in Yemen
- Four children were killed in an explosion involving military ammunition in Yemen. - The victims ranged in age from six to 14 years old. - The incident highlights the ongoing dangers posed by unexplo…
Gynecologist: Suturing After Childbirth Not Taught in Slovakia, Causing Women to Suffer
- A gynecologist stated that suturing after childbirth is not taught in Slovakia, leading many doctors to believe they know how, causing suffering for women. - The doctor emphasized the difficulty in …
Heatwave Claims Lives of Two Children Left in Car in France
- A heatwave in France has tragically resulted in the deaths of two young children who were left unattended in a vehicle. - Record-breaking temperatures are expected across Europe this week, exacerbat…
Tóth in Kuciak Murder Case: Kočner Lied to Me
- A witness in the murder case of Ján Kuciak claims Marian Kočner misled him. - The new testimony from the witness, Tóth, is considered crucial evidence against Kočner. - This statement could signific…
iPhone prices may rise as costs become unsustainable
- Apple may increase iPhone prices due to unsustainable costs. - CEO Tim Cook compared the current situation to historical floods, suggesting severe challenges. - The article implies that price hikes …
Slovak memorandum yields no change as conditions go unmet
- The Slovak competition protection commission has not brought about changes with its memorandum. - The conditions set out in the memorandum are unlikely to be met by any party. - The commission's act…
China's Central Bank Holds Interest Rates Steady for Over a Year
- China's central bank has maintained its benchmark interest rates for over a year. - The country's economy exhibits a "two-speed" growth model. - The description suggests a divergence in economic per…
Europe hit by heatwave, France convenes emergency meeting
- Europe is experiencing a severe heatwave, with temperatures expected to peak on Monday. - France has convened an emergency meeting to address the escalating heat crisis. - Historical temperature rec…
Visegrád Group faces internal divisions over national interests
- The Visegrád Group, comprising Hungary, Poland, and Slovakia, is facing internal disagreements regarding its future direction. - Slovak interests are reportedly not being served by the current pact,…
Peter Tóth to testify in Ján Kuciak murder case
- Peter Tóth is expected to testify in the murder case of journalist Ján Kuciak. - Tóth claims Marian Kočner hired him to surveil journalists. - The case involves the investigation into the murder of …
France Mobilizes Additional 13 Billion Euros for Technology Sovereignty Fund
- France has mobilized an additional 13 billion euros for its technology sovereignty fund. - The initiative, launched in 2020, aims to bolster the nation's technological independence. - This funding i…
Norway proposes ban on trade with Israeli settlements
- Norway proposes a ban on trade with Israeli settlements in Palestinian territories. - The proposal aims to protect legitimate Palestinian activities and humanitarian aid. - The move aligns with inte…
Portuguese Parliament Rejects Contentious Labor Reforms
- Portugal's parliament rejected controversial labor code reforms proposed by the government. - The government argued the reforms were necessary to revitalize the economy. - The rejection highlights a…
Man convicted in Germany for death threats against politicians on dark web
- A man in Germany has been convicted for making death threats against politicians on the dark web. - The court found that the accused used the platform to incite attacks against political figures. - …
Krupina Employees Face Existential Crisis Amid Defense Contract Boom
- Employees at Way Industries in Krupina face existential problems despite the company's lucrative 140 million euro contract with the Ministry of Defense. - Following inquiries from the SME newspaper,…
Association of Towns and Municipalities insists on excluding local governments from debt brake
- The Association of Towns and Municipalities in Slovakia insists that local governments should be excluded from the debt brake. - The debt brake limits the borrowing capacity of public administration…
Spielberg's new film reveals Hollywood's marketing dilemma
- Steven Spielberg's new film "The Fabelmans" explores the director's childhood and his passion for filmmaking. - The movie's release attracted older viewers, indicating a broader appeal beyond typica…
EU expansion is a matter of economic security
- The expansion of the European Union is presented not just as a geopolitical issue but as a matter of economic security. - The article argues that integrating new members strengthens the EU's overall…
EU Leaders Tackle Economic Challenges, Citing Chinese Competition
- EU leaders adopted conclusions on competitiveness, addressing economic challenges posed by cheaper Chinese competition. - The influx of low-cost Chinese goods is impacting industry and weakening com…
Labor inspectors tell Minister Tomáš they no longer want to be silent, criticizing salaries, chaos, and remarks about 'fixers'
- Labor inspectors have written to Minister Tomáš, stating they can no longer remain silent about workplace conditions. - They criticize low salaries, perceived chaos within the ministry, and the mini…
BMW's silence on M Neue Klasse performance hints at powerful reveal
- BMW has remained silent on the performance specifications of its upcoming M Neue Klasse concept car. - Rumors suggest the vehicle could exceed 1,000 horsepower. - The silence is interpreted as antic…
Police fail to secure secret witnesses in student murder case
- Slovak police have failed to secure the court appearances of secret witnesses in the murder case of student Daniel Tupý. - The criminal case file of Juraj Ondrejčák, also relevant to the investigati…
Cynical Monster: Proof of Russian Wealth
- A commentary piece titled "Cynical Monster: Proof of Russian Wealth" is presented. - The title suggests a critical perspective on perceived Russian affluence. - The accompanying description "Well, i…
Nearly 100 Colombian rebels surrender arms after deal with President Petro
- Nearly 100 Colombian rebels have surrendered their weapons following an agreement with President Petro. - This marks the largest success to date for the president's peace plan. - The disarmament is …
Burnham secures return to Parliament in by-election
- Andy Burnham, the mayor of Manchester and a veteran Labour Party figure, has secured a return to the UK Parliament in a by-election. - Burnham had previously indicated he would seek the party leader…
New 'Piatoček' Podcast Episode Tackles Smer Party's Family Matters
- A new episode of the satirical podcast "Piatoček" has been released. - The podcast focuses on family matters within the Smer political party. - It offers a satirical commentary on current political …
Fico Spoke with Zelenskyy About Government Negotiations and EU Expansion
- Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico discussed cooperation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. - Key topics included government negotiations and the European Union's expansion. - Fico acknowl…
Croatia strengthens its aerial firefighting fleet
- Croatia is expanding its aerial firefighting fleet. - The country is acquiring six Canadair aircraft, six Air Tractor planes, and one helicopter. - This expansion aims to enhance capabilities for co…
New EU rules require more recycled materials in cars
- New European Union rules mandate that new cars must incorporate a higher percentage of recycled materials. - These regulations aim to bolster the circular economy within the automotive sector. - The…
Swiss parliament opens path to new nuclear power plants
- The Swiss parliament has cleared the way for the construction of new nuclear power plants. - This decision opens the door for expanding Switzerland's nuclear energy capacity. - The final decision on…
European Parliament Warns Georgia and Turkey: Reforms Needed for EU Membership
- The European Parliament has warned Georgia and Turkey that they will not progress toward EU membership without significant reforms. - Lawmakers highlighted ongoing weakening of democratic institutio…
Slovakia ratifies police cooperation treaty with Czech Republic
- The Slovak President has ratified an international treaty between Slovakia and the Czech Republic concerning police cooperation. - This treaty is classified as an international agreement under the C…
Slovakia faces first hot weekend, a sign of weather patterns to get used to
- Slovakia is bracing for its first hot weekend of the year, with temperatures expected to rise significantly across the country. - Forecasters warn that these heatwaves are not just a temporary incon…
Slovaks Less Frequently Travel to Austria for Caregiving; Romanians Are Replacing Them (Interview)
- Fewer Slovaks are traveling to Austria for caregiving jobs, with Romanians increasingly filling these roles. - The demand for caregiving services is expected to rise within Slovakia as younger gener…
Danko: Pensions Could Rise for Seniors Over 85
- Andrej Danko suggested that pensions could be increased for seniors over 85. - He claims to have convinced his colleagues from the Smer party. - The details of the proposed increase were not specifi…
Slovak Parliament Adjourns, Over 100 Items Postponed to September
- Slovak lawmakers concluded their session, postponing over 100 agenda items until September. - The next ordinary session is scheduled to begin on September 15. - The postponement affects a significan…
Entrepreneurs Support Increased Tax Deductions, Urge Systemic Economic Reforms
- Slovak entrepreneurs welcome measures allowing them to retain more of their earnings. - They emphasize that these changes are a positive step but stress the need for broader systemic reforms. - The …
Canada launches call for proposals for local initiatives fund in Haiti
- The Canadian Embassy in Haiti has launched its annual call for proposals for the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (FCIL). - The fund supports local projects in Haiti that contribute to democracy, s…
Constitutional Court Rules on Law, Slovakia Parliament Awaits Confidence Vote
- Members of the Progressive Slovakia (PS) party requested an interpretation of a constitutional law. - The dispute over the law's meaning was ultimately settled by the Constitutional Court. - Parliam…
European Parliament approves reform tightening migration policy
- The European Parliament approved a reform to tighten migration policy. - The reform grants member states broader powers in managing migration. - Details on the specific measures and their implicatio…
Blanár defends newly appointed ambassadors ahead of government talks
- Slovak Minister of Foreign Affairs Miroslav Blanár defended the newly appointed ambassadors ahead of a government meeting. - Blanár stated that all nominated ambassadors possess extensive experience…
Bratislava exhibition uses concentration camp items and sports flags to tell Jewish community history
- A new exhibition at the Jewish Community Museum in Bratislava showcases the history of the Jewish community through artifacts, including items made in concentration camps and sports flags. - The exh…
Slovak Government Approves Over 17 Million Euros for IT Investments in Taxes and Hospitals
- The Slovak government has approved significant investments exceeding 17.3 million euros in information technology. - These funds are earmarked for modernizing IT systems in critical sectors, includi…
Body Ended Up in Grinder: Mafia Murder Would Not Be Convicted After Kolíková's Amendment
- Slovak lawmakers are set to vote on another amendment that critics argue will benefit organized crime. - The proposed legislation follows a previous amendment by Justice Minister Mária Kolíková, whi…
Canadian startup unveils silent electric motorcycle for military missions
- A Canadian startup has unveiled a quiet electric motorcycle designed for military missions. - The motorcycle is reportedly ready for testing by armed forces. - Its design prioritizes stealth and ope…
Hungarian Prime Minister to meet Cardinal Erdő to prepare for Pope's visit
- Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán is scheduled to visit the Vatican for discussions with Cardinal Péter Erdő. - The meeting will focus on preparations for an upcoming papal visit to Hungary. - F…
Building 'Fortress Europe': Extremist ideas become mainstream policy
- The article discusses the increasing adoption of ideas previously considered extremist into mainstream European policy. - It suggests a shift in political discourse where radical notions are becomin…
Petržalka Mayor Hrčka to Run for City and Regional Councils with Krajina Party
- Bratislava's Petržalka district mayor, Ján Hrčka, will run for a seat in the city and regional councils. - Hrčka announced his candidacy as part of the Krajina party. - The party plans to field cand…
Fico Appoints Disabled Employee to Smer; Announces 'Shocking' NGO Audit
- Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has appointed a disabled employee to a position within his Smer party. - Fico announced an audit targeting NGOs, predicting "shocking" findings. - Critics suggest t…
Slovak MP expects proposed election term unification to fail
- Slovak MP Jarjabek anticipates that proposed constitutional amendments to unify election terms will not pass. - The current proposal aims to standardize election periods across all levels of governm…
Doctors' union asks president to save Podunajské Biskupice hospital amid bed shortage
- Medical trade unionists are appealing to the president to save a hospital in Podunajské Biskupice. - The Bratislava region faces a significant shortage of beds for long-term patients. - Preserving t…
The enduring phenomenon of 'Trainspotting' after 30 years
- The film "Trainspotting" is being celebrated 30 years after its release, marking its enduring cultural impact. - The article delves into the behind-the-scenes story of the cult classic, highlighting…
UN Human Rights Commissioner warns of growing risks from autonomous weapons in wars
- The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights has warned about the increasing risks associated with autonomous weapons in warfare. - He noted a global shift in the way wars are conducted. - The warning …
Nearly 900,000 Irregular Migrants Apply for Legal Status in Spain
- Approximately 900,000 irregular migrants in Spain have applied for legal residency, significantly exceeding the initial estimate of 500,000. - The high number of applications suggests a substantial …
Peru Election Results Tightest in Latin America in Decades
- Conservative politician Keiko Fujimori is leading in Peru's presidential election, which has the tightest results in Latin America in decades. - With over 98.5 percent of votes counted, the race rem…
This Country Is Not for Children: The Story of Those the State Refuses to Hear
- The article highlights a societal issue in an unnamed country where the state neglects the voices and needs of children. - It describes a power imbalance where adults wield control over children, of…
Plastic surgeon warns of risks: Botox can cause facial paralysis or blindness
- A plastic surgeon explains the risks associated with cosmetic procedures like Botox injections. - Patients have reportedly experienced severe side effects, including facial paralysis and blindness. …
Slovak kindergartens struggle with e-enrollment system for transfers
- Slovakian kindergartens face challenges with the ePrihláška system for new enrollments. - The system prioritizes new applications, making it difficult for children needing to transfer from other kin…
Russia strikes Kyiv cathedral previously under Moscow's control
- Russia has struck a Kyiv cathedral that was previously under Moscow's influence. - Ukrainian forces had expelled pro-Russian priests from the church. - The strike occurred after a visit by Patriarch…
Hungarian parliament approves prime minister term limit
- Hungary's parliament has approved a law limiting the prime minister's term in office. - The new legislation restricts the prime minister to a maximum of eight years in the position. - This move intr…
Blooming Land and Ruined State
- The article uses the metaphor of a "blooming land" versus a "ruined state" to describe Slovakia's situation. - It suggests that the country is not a "scorched earth" but has been damaged and slowed …
Slovak Theater Criticized for Cynical Adaptation to 'Kremlin-Style Standards'
- The Slovak theater scene is criticized for its late and perhaps cynical adaptation to Kremlin-style standards. - The commentary suggests a perceived lack of timely engagement with contemporary polit…
Bratislava police conduct operation targeting drunk drivers
- Bratislava police are conducting a traffic operation focused on enforcing drunk driving laws. - The operation is organized by the international organization Roadpol. - Drivers are being checked for …
Why families are returning: Travel without flying, with mountains and islands nearby
- Families are choosing to return to a specific destination that offers a unique travel experience without flying. - The location provides natural attractions like mountains and islands, appealing to …
Progressive Slovakia to approach European Commission over non-disclosure of political appointees' salaries
- The Progressive Slovakia (PS) movement plans to approach the European Commission regarding the non-disclosure of salaries for political appointees. - The PS argues that the Slovak government is misu…
Slovak firms stronger but more cautious, EY and Slovenská sporiteľňa report
- Slovak companies are demonstrating increased strength but also greater caution in their business operations. - This observation comes from EY and Slovenská sporiteľňa, who have analyzed the current …
Božik Criticizes Road Law for Insufficient Local Powers
- Slovak lawmakers are debating a road law that critics say fails to grant sufficient powers to local governments. - Local authorities sought adequate tools to address their communities' problems. - T…
Two earthquakes strike central Greece, felt in Athens
- Two earthquakes struck central Greece, with tremors felt as far south as Athens, approximately 90 kilometers from the epicenter. - No immediate reports of significant damage or casualties have been …
Air Rescue Services Respond to Traffic Accidents in Western Slovakia
- Air rescue services were deployed following traffic accidents in western Slovakia. - An 18-year-old woman was seriously injured in a crash near Kráľová pri Senci. - The article indicates that air re…
Hungary restricts entry of non-EU workers
- Hungary has reportedly restricted the entry of workers from outside the European Union. - An estimated 90,000 non-EU workers are currently employed in Hungary. - The article does not provide further…
Starmer to Run for Labour Leadership if Contest Arises
- Keir Starmer intends to run for the leadership of the Labour Party if a contest arises. - The British Prime Minister has repeatedly refused calls to resign. - The article implies potential future le…
Want a Friend in the Age of Artificial Intelligence? Get a Dog.
The article explores the deep bond between humans and dogs, suggesting that dogs can fulfill the need for companionship in an era increasingly dominated by artificial intelligence. It questions why hu…
Middle East Online: USA neutralizes Iranian drones threatening traffic in Hormuz
- The U.S. military neutralized two Iranian drones that posed a threat to maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz. - This action is part of ongoing tensions and retaliatory strikes in the Middle East…
Slovak architect in Bhutan: 'The most shocking thing was the silence. They measure Gross National Happiness here.'
- A Slovak architect is living in Bhutan, where his son is the first Slovak born in the country. - The architect notes that the most striking aspect of Bhutanese culture is its pervasive sense of quie…
"I didn't know I would hit a home run": Veteran catcher Kang Min-ho's decisive blast signals Samsung Lions' revival
- Samsung Lions catcher Kang Min-ho hit a crucial home run, signaling a resurgence for the team. - The 41-year-old veteran expressed surprise at his own decisive hit, stating he wasn't specifically ai…
Elon Musk's wealth could surpass $1 trillion after SpaceX IPO
- Elon Musk is on track to become the world's first person with a net worth exceeding $1 trillion, driven by a potential SpaceX IPO. - Musk's current wealth from Tesla stock and options stands at $273…
American Ebola patient released from Berlin hospital after successful treatment
- An American citizen infected with Ebola in the Democratic Republic of Congo has been successfully treated and released from a Berlin hospital. - The surgeon underwent 17 days of antiviral treatment …
