🇸🇰 SME
Slovakia · SK · https://www.sme.sk
About SME
SME is published by Petit Press. In 2014, the investment group Penta, which had been implicated in a corruption scandal, acquired a stake in Petit Press, leading to significant editorial resignations. Penta divested its shares in 2021. The Media Development Investment Fund (MDIF) also holds a 34% stake in Petit Press.
SME was founded in 1993 by journalists who resigned from a state-owned daily in protest against government interference, establishing it as an independent voice. It is identified as the leading liberal daily in Slovakia. A notable controversy occurred in 2014 when the investment group Penta acquired a stake in its publisher, leading to the resignation of the editor-in-chief and half the editorial board. The broader media environment in Slovakia is characterized by political pressures and a hostile environment for journalists, with a decline in press freedom rankings. SME, along with other outlets, was denied access to a general prosecutor's press conference in 2021, which was condemned by the International Press Institute. The headline sample reflects a range of news topics, including politics, economics, and international affairs.
Reading context
Media systems vary by law, ownership, and editorial custom. We preserve each outlet's framing and add context so readers can compare coverage without treating one country as the default.
Deactivated train line section reduces safety and efficiency, experts say
- Experts contend that deactivating a section of the European Train Control System (ETCS) compromises train safety and efficiency. - The primary issue cited is the resulting lack of communication with…
AfD Candidate in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern Convicted of Bank Robbery
- A candidate for the AfD party in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern has been revealed to have a prior conviction for bank robbery. - Political opponents have voiced criticism following this discovery. - The art…
Serbian President Accuses The Hague Court of 'Uncivilized Behavior' Towards Genocide Architect
- Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić accused the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY) in The Hague. - Vučić described the court's actions towards Ratko Mladić as "unciviliz…
President Praises Young People Joining Armed Forces
- Slovak President Pellegrini praised young individuals for choosing to join the armed forces. - He stated that taking the military oath signifies more than a mere ceremony. - The president's comments…
At least 27 killed in Zimbabwe truck and minibus collision
- A collision between a truck and a minibus in Zimbabwe has resulted in the deaths of at least 27 people. - The minibus was reportedly carrying church members to a conference at the time of the accide…
Polish government excludes Constitutional Court funding from next year's budget
- The Polish government has decided not to allocate any funds from the state budget to the Constitutional Court for the upcoming year. - This decision means the court will receive no financial support…
Trump Administration Considered Handing Over Part of Yosemite Park to Private Operator
- The Trump administration considered a plan to transfer management of parts of Yosemite National Park to a private entity. - Critics, including environmentalists and Democrats, argue this would weake…
Slovak Opposition Marks SNP Anniversary, Warns Against Democratic Erosion and Extremism
- Opposition parties in Slovakia marked the anniversary of the Slovak National Uprising (SNP), emphasizing its historical significance. - They issued warnings about the erosion of democratic principle…
Icelanders Vote in Referendum on EU Accession Talks
- Icelanders are voting in a referendum on whether to resume negotiations for European Union membership. - The outcome of the vote will determine the country's future relationship with the EU. - Initi…
Forced contraception in Greenland did not meet legal definition of genocide, experts say
- Experts argue that Denmark's forced contraception campaign in Greenland did not meet the legal definition of genocide. - The campaign, which involved the forced sterilization and IUD insertions of I…
Cynical Monster: A Colorful Episcopal August
- The article uses the metaphor "Cynical Monster" to describe a flexible organization. - This organization is characterized by its ability to adapt and cover "all positions." - The piece refers to "Ep…
Slovakia: 'If We Cede Space, Those Who Rewrite History Will Dominate'
- The article questions the commemoration of Russian imperialism in Slovakia. - It suggests Šafárik Square as a potential site for remembering historical events related to Russian influence. - The pie…
Slovak Polls Show Stable Preferences, Democrats Dip Below 5 Percent
- A recent AKO poll in Slovakia reveals stable political preferences among voters. - The Democratic party has fallen below the 5 percent threshold required for parliamentary representation. - Accordin…
Tesco, IKEA Lead by Example: Offering Support for Victims of Violence
- Tesco and IKEA in Slovakia are setting a precedent by offering support to victims of violence. - This initiative involves providing a secret code word and granting ten extra days of leave. - A new m…
War criminal Mladić to be buried with full military and state honors
- Ratko Mladić, convicted of genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity, will be buried with full military and state honors. - The decision has sparked controversy and condemnation from victims…
Security Council Should Convene After Foiled Attack, Says Huliak
- A foiled attack on a company in Slovakia had the potential to cause a major fire, police reported. - Politician Huliak stated that the security council should convene to discuss the incident. - The …
Slovak Man Completes Grueling National Trail After Cancer Treatment
- Michal Lauko, who had never hiked the Cesta hrdinov SNP (Path of the SNP Heroes) before, completed the entire trail. - Lauko undertook the challenging trek just three months after finishing cancer t…
Former head of National Security Bureau receives suspended sentence in 'Iskra' system case
- The former head of Slovakia's National Security Bureau (NBÚ) has been convicted in the 'Iskra' system case. - He was found guilty of violating duties related to the management of foreign property. -…
Bird Flu Type H5N1 Detected in Deceased Dolphin and Fox in South Australia
- Bird flu, specifically the H5N1 strain, has been detected in a deceased dolphin and a fox in South Australia. - This marks the first instance of the H5N1 strain being identified in these animal spec…
The Pro-Age Approach to Beauty: Supporting Skin Health and Vitality, Not Fighting Wrinkles
- A pro-age approach to beauty focuses on supporting skin health and vitality rather than combating wrinkles. - This philosophy emphasizes conscious choices and quality ingredients over quantity. - It…
How Agrofert defends Babiš from becoming the Czech Orbán
- The article discusses how Agrofert, a major Czech holding, acts to prevent its owner Andrej Babiš from adopting policies similar to Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. - It suggests that Agrofert…
Slovakia's Contribution to European Budget Discussions Amidst Funding Shortfalls
- The European Union is facing potential significant budget cuts due to insufficient current funding. - Discussions are underway regarding a common EU budget to address these shortfalls. - Slovakia's …
Syrian President Appoints Leader of Disbanded SDF as Advisor
- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has appointed the leader of the disbanded Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) as his advisor. - The SDF were known as the country's best-trained paramilitary units. - Thi…
Slovak Police to Purchase $16.7 Million in "Taser Gloves"; Rights Groups Raise Concerns
- The Slovak police force plans to purchase electroshock gloves worth $16.7 million. - The acquisition has drawn criticism from human rights organizations. - These groups are concerned about the poten…
Quebec election set for October 5, separatists favored
- Quebec's provincial election is scheduled for October 5, with separatist parties currently favored to win. - The current Premier and leader of the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) will seek re-election…
Cuban School Year to Start on Schedule Despite Widespread Power Outages
- Cuba's school year will commence on its scheduled date despite significant nationwide power outages. - To accommodate the disruptions, students will be excused for late arrivals and non-compliance w…
Spain approves measures to speed up migrant returns from Ceuta
- Spain's government approved measures to expedite the return of migrants from Ceuta. - The government established a "single command" structure for managing the situation in Ceuta. - The specific deta…
Fico Criticizes Prosecutor's Dismissal, Accused of Selective Justice
- Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico criticized the prosecutor's office for dismissing an official, contrasting it with his own government's actions. - Fico previously supported the dismissal of Tibor …
US court rejects former girlfriend's bid to overturn Ghislaine Maxwell's conviction
- A US court rejected a request by Ghislaine Maxwell's ex-girlfriend to overturn her conviction. - Maxwell is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence that began in 2021. - The specific details of …
Cat ears and the end of Proto-Slavic civilization
- The article discusses the postponement of a "wellness utopia" due to shifting priorities. - It suggests that the concept of "cat ears" is linked to the end of a "Proto-Slavic civilization." - The pi…
Slovak police investigate 1.8 million euro fraud in vehicle inspection accounts
- Police are investigating a fraud scheme involving vehicle inspection accounts that allegedly caused nearly 1.8 million euros in damages. - The case reportedly came to light during the tenure of form…
Slovakia revokes citizenship over marriage to British national; EU intervention could restore it
- A Slovak woman has had her citizenship revoked because she is married to a British man. - An attorney suggests this situation could set a significant precedent if the EU intervenes. - The woman may …
Trial for Journalist Ján Kuciak's Murder Continues with Document Reading
- The trial for the murder of journalist Ján Kuciak continues with the reading of documents. - None of the four defendants are present in court. - The case involves the 2018 murder of Kuciak and his f…
Fico to take over Saková's agenda, seeks separate firm to value ČEZ stake
- Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico insists he will take over the agenda of former Economy Minister Denisa Saková. - However, Fico wants another company to assess the price for the stake held by Czech…
What the way we remembered August '68 says about the state of politics (writes Peter Weiss)
- The author reflects on how Slovakia commemorates the 1968 invasion, questioning the national consensus on the event. - The piece suggests a lack of agreement on who the aggressor was in 1968 indicat…
Slovakia's minimum wage to rise again, with automatic adjustments after social partners fail to agree
- Slovakia's minimum wage is set to increase again, with automatic adjustments determining the new rate. - Social partners failed to reach an agreement on the minimum wage. - The increase will also af…
Automated businesses evolve into full-service operations
- Automated businesses, from shops to pizzerias, are evolving beyond simple vending machines into comprehensive business solutions. - These automated establishments can now verify customer age, bake p…
Germany Has No Right to Return Migrants to Italy, Says Salvini Despite New EU Rules
- Italy's Matteo Salvini asserts that Germany lacks the right to return migrants to Italy, despite new EU asylum rules. - The new EU asylum and migration pact took effect in mid-June. - The statement …
North Macedonia records fifth West Nile virus death amid mosquito control efforts
- North Macedonia has recorded its fifth death attributed to West Nile virus. - The country is currently implementing widespread mosquito spraying measures. - Health authorities are monitoring the sit…
Poles blame President Nawrocki and government for unfulfilled promises
- Polish citizens blame President Nawrocki and the government for failing to fulfill their promises. - Critics point to Nawrocki's ineffectiveness and lack of suitable initiatives. - The article sugge…
Slovakia May Allow Drivers with One Hand or Leg to Operate Buses and Trucks
- Slovakia may allow drivers with one hand or leg to operate buses and trucks. - The proposed change aims to enable injured combatants to work. - This adjustment is part of a broader effort to support…
Traffic in Bratislava to be restricted Sunday due to cycling event
- Traffic in Bratislava will be restricted on Sunday due to a cycling event. - The race begins at 7:00 AM near the Einsteinova Street shopping center. - Drivers are advised to expect delays and seek a…
NATO discusses ensuring freedom of navigation in Strait of Hormuz
- NATO countries are discussing strategies to ensure freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. - The alliance aims to avoid direct involvement in the conflict between the U.S. and Iran. - Discuss…
Brent Crude Tops $94 Amid Market Reaction to Trump's Iran Stance
- The price of Brent crude oil has surpassed $94 per barrel, driven by market reactions to U.S. President Trump's statements on economic isolation for Iran. This development impacts global markets and…
Slovakia's PS movement urges health minister to protect patients needing MRI scans
- The PS movement urged Health Minister Michal Šaško to protect patients needing MRI scans. - Patients currently must find specialists themselves, rather than insurers arranging appointments. - The pa…
Burčík and Getting: The State Machinery Turned Against Hedviga Malinova 20 Years Ago
- Two decades after the attack on student Hedviga Malinova, journalists revisit the case. - The article highlights how the state apparatus turned against Malinova 20 years ago. - It examines the circu…
Three Dead in Austria from Legionnaires' Disease
- Three individuals have died in Austria from Legionnaires' disease. - The disease is caused by the Legionella bacteria, commonly found in water and soil. - Health authorities are investigating the so…
Ukraine Sanctions Creators of Children's Cartoon 'Masha and the Bear'
- Ukraine has imposed sanctions on the creators of the children's animated series 'Masha and the Bear.' - Ukrainian authorities claim the series promotes pro-Russian narratives. - The sanctions target…
Czech Firm Čepro Successfully Tests Fuel Transport to Slovnaft
- Czech distribution company Čepro successfully tested fuel transport to Slovnaft. - The test involved transporting 200 cubic meters of diesel fuel. - This test is a step towards ensuring reliable fue…
Vulkan, a traditional Slovak firm, collapses into millions of debt
- The traditional Slovak company Vulkan has accumulated millions in debt and is now undergoing bankruptcy proceedings. - The article mentions historical figures and events, including Bata, murders, an…
Heatwave warnings issued for southern Slovakia
- Meteorologists have issued first and second-degree warnings for several areas in southern Slovakia due to anticipated high temperatures. - Temperatures are expected to exceed 33 degrees Celsius in t…
Serbia Seeks Russian Firefighting Aid as EU Lacks Available Aircraft
- Serbia has requested assistance from Russia to combat widespread wildfires. - The European Union reportedly does not have available aircraft to aid in firefighting efforts. - A Russian firefighting …
State within a state: Putin's most guarded place in Russia endangered by Ukrainian drone attacks
- Ukrainian drone attacks have severely damaged the defenses around a luxurious residence belonging to Russian President Vladimir Putin. - The location is described as a "state within a state" and the…
Iran Condemns U.S. Economic Plans as 'Terrorism'
- Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian condemned U.S. President Donald Trump's plans for drastic economic measures against Iran. - Amirabdollahian stated that the U.S.'s "economic terroris…
Fedorov Wants Ukraine's Biggest Innovation
- Ukraine's Deputy Prime Minister Mykhailo Fedorov aims to foster the country's largest innovation initiative. - The initiative is framed within the context of Ukraine's ongoing existential war. - Det…
Zuzana Rumiz: Italy's Over-50 Hiring Trend and Rising Youth Unemployment Will Reach Slovakia
- Zuzana Rumiz, an expert in labor markets, warns that Slovakia faces a growing unemployment trend among young people, mirroring a paradox observed in Italy where companies seek older workers. - She e…
NATO's war plan includes deep strikes into Russia | SME (SK) | 01M0D3FTFGXBKR33QXNBZKYNFC
- NATO's defense plan includes potential attacks deep within Russian territory in case of a global conflict. - The plan outlines how the alliance would respond to aggression from Russia. - However, th…
Slovak job seekers demand salary transparency, reject secrecy
- A survey indicates that half of job applicants would not respond to an advertisement if the salary was not disclosed. - The research highlights a strong demand for salary transparency among job seek…
Ukraine minister calls for elections during wartime, breaking taboo
- Ukrainian Minister Mykhailo Fedorov has called for elections to be held during the ongoing war, breaking a political taboo. - Fedorov argued that Russian President Putin should not dictate Ukraine's…
The forgotten heroes: The fading legacy of the Pálffy warriors
- The article discusses the historical figures Ján and Mikuláš Pálffy, once celebrated symbols of Hungarian glory. - It notes that today, their legacy is largely forgotten, illustrating the transient …
U.S. Sanctions on Court Officials Undermine Rule of Law, ICC Says
- The International Criminal Court (ICC) stated that U.S. sanctions against court officials undermine the rule of law. - The U.S. previously imposed similar sanctions. - The ICC expressed concern over…
Cynical monster: Blaha revealed it all..., but didn't think it through
- The article discusses a political situation in Slovakia involving Robert Blaha and Šutaj Eštok. - It suggests Blaha has revealed something significant but perhaps not fully considered the consequenc…
Slovak tourist describes South Korean beauty clinics operating like a 'production line'
- A Slovak tourist, Sofia, described her experience at South Korean beauty clinics catering to international visitors. - She noted that these clinics operate like a "production line," with some patien…
USA imposes sanctions on International Criminal Court President and Chief Prosecutor
- The United States has imposed sanctions on the President and Chief Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court. - This action follows previous U.S. sanctions against the court after it issued arr…
IAEA visits undeclared nuclear material site in Syria
- The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) visited a previously undeclared site in Syria containing nuclear material. - Agency workers collected samples at the location, according to the IAEA Dir…
WHO warns Congo's Ebola epidemic could spread to other countries
- The World Health Organization warns that the Ebola epidemic in Congo could spread to other countries. - WHO states that the current Ebola outbreak is spreading faster than any previous epidemic. - T…
KDH Seeks Parliamentary Debate on Irrigation, Urges Government Action
- KDH party proposes parliamentary debate on irrigation systems. - The party urges the government to take concrete actions regarding water management.
Actor Jozef Vajda: I dislike young people wanting to look the same due to Instagram trends
- Slovak actor Jozef Vajda criticizes young people for conforming to Instagram trends and seeking identical appearances. - He believes sports offer more than just posing for social media. - Vajda emph…
Environmentalists Warn of Chaos as Ministry Plans TANAP Development Changes
- Slovakia's Ministry of Environment is preparing changes for the development of the TANAP national park. - Environmental organizations are urging the ministry to correct errors, compare development o…
Colombian minister allegedly vacationed after earthquake; opposition seeks dismissal
- Colombia's opposition is seeking to dismiss the country's minister of environment. - The minister is accused of vacationing after a significant earthquake. - Thousands of people are reportedly livin…
British Prime Minister corresponded with imposter, believing it was White House chief of staff
- British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak engaged in correspondence with an individual he believed to be the White House Chief of Staff, JoAnne Wiles. - The imposter successfully deceived Sunak, leading hi…
Outdated Electrical Grid Causes Most Fires in Greece, Kathimerini Reports
- An aging electrical grid, largely operating above ground, is identified as the primary cause of most fires in Greece. - The state of the network poses significant risks, contributing to the frequent…
Fear Online, Calm on Streets: Attacks on Foreigners Cast Shadow Over Nitra
- A report from Nitra, Slovakia, describes a climate of fear online following attacks on foreigners, contrasting with a calm street atmosphere. - One victim, Inda, was brutally beaten, while a Ukraini…
Vojtaššák Discussion Uncovers Post-November Anti-Totalitarian Consensus Breakdown
- The discussion surrounding the beatification of Vojtaššák has revealed a breakdown in the post-November anti-totalitarian consensus. - The article explores the implications of this revelation for Sl…
Cohesion is a Condition for Slovakia to Be a Country for Everyone
- The article discusses the importance of cohesion for Slovakia to be a country for everyone. - It notes that many view the principle of equalizing regional differences as outdated. - The piece likely…
European Judicial Councils Condemn Trump's Pressure on International Court
- European judicial councils, including Slovakia's, have condemned pressure exerted by former U.S. President Donald Trump on an international court. - The councils emphasize the importance of respecti…
German Social Democrats Propose Constitutional Climate Protection; CDU/CSU Hesitate
- Germany's Social Democrats propose enshrining climate protection in the constitution. - The proposal comes amid high temperatures and drought affecting Europe. - The center-right CDU/CSU parties hav…
PM's nuclear power announcement 'theater,' says Slovak opposition
- The opposition party SaS criticizes the Prime Minister's announcement of a new nuclear power source as mere theater. - SaS claims the statement that Westinghouse is the sole technology supplier is f…
Polish army to become Europe's largest soon, says PM Tusk
- Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk stated that the Polish army is set to become the largest in Europe soon. - This expansion will position Poland's military as the third largest within NATO, followin…
Indoor Building Environment Depends on Thermal Comfort and Airflow
- The quality of indoor environments depends on more than just ventilation systems. - Building design plays a crucial role in ensuring thermal comfort and proper air circulation from the initial stage…
Ordinary people justified collaboration with Nazis through 'stripped-down Christianity,' book reveals (reprise)
- A book about the wartime Slovak State reveals its functioning at the regional level. - The author argues that ordinary people justified collaboration with Nazis through a "stripped-down Christianity…
Swedish Parliament Votes to Lower Criminal Responsibility Age to 14
- The Swedish parliament has voted to lower the age of criminal responsibility to 14. - The government had initially proposed lowering it to 13. - This decision marks a significant shift in Sweden's a…
Japan criticizes Putin's Kuril Islands visit; Moscow calls reaction unfounded
- Japan criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to the Kuril Islands. - Russia dismissed Japan's reaction as unfounded. - The Kuril Islands have been a long-standing territorial dispute be…
Severe Droughts Demand Stronger Water Protection, Says Fico
- Prime Minister Robert Fico stated that severe droughts necessitate more robust water protection measures. - Fico condemned a recent attack in Nitra. - The Slovak government is urged to take decisive…
Weekend selection: What growing up in a narcissistic family looks like
- This article is a regular weekend reading selection from SME, a Slovak publication. - The topic focuses on the experience of growing up in a narcissistic family. - It offers insights and reading mat…
Russian embassy calls drone found at German airport a provocation
- The Russian embassy in Germany described the discovery of a drone at an airport as a provocation. - Airport staff found the explosive-laden drone early Wednesday morning. - The incident occurred at …
Prominent Armenian cleric faces court order for reinstatement after removal
- Catholicos Karekin II, the supreme head of the Armenian Apostolic Church, has removed Bishop Bagrat Galstanyan from his posts. - A court has ordered the bishop's reinstatement, creating a legal and …
Group with Russian ties suspected of spreading fake video of Wagenknecht's resignation
- A group identified as Storm 1516, with alleged ties to Russia, is suspected of spreading a fake video depicting the resignation of German politician Sahra Wagenknecht. - This group is reportedly res…
Russian radars are only a symptom; the security risk is Šutaj Eštok
- The presence of Russian radars in Slovakia is seen as a symptom of a larger security risk posed by Interior Minister Šutaj Eštok. - The article suggests that the minister's actions or affiliations c…
Hungary Offers Regional Cooperation to Combat Extreme Weather Impacts
- Hungary's minister has proposed regional cooperation to combat the impacts of extreme weather events. - The initiative focuses on water management and involves contacting several neighboring countri…
Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey sign mutual defense pact
- Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey have signed a mutual defense agreement. - The pact stipulates that an attack against one country will be considered an attack against all three. - The agreement ai…
Slovak regional governments approved nearly half of subsidies without clear criteria, audit finds
- The Supreme Audit Office of Slovakia (NKÚ) found that regional governments (VÚC) approved nearly half of their subsidies without clear evaluation criteria. - Irregularities were also identified in t…
Aggressive Macaque Paralyzes Sumatra, Dozens of Schools Closed After Series of Attacks
- An aggressive macaque monkey caused disruptions in Sumatra, leading to the closure of dozens of schools. - Wildlife rescuers successfully trapped the monkey after a series of attacks. - The incident…
BMW M2 CS: A top sports car despite missing cup holders
- The BMW M2 CS is highly praised as one of the best sports cars currently available. - While it lacks cup holders, this minor inconvenience is quickly overshadowed by the car's performance. - The rev…
Trump Again Seeks to End Birthright Citizenship, Signs Executive Orders
- Donald Trump is attempting to end birthright citizenship for individuals born in the U.S. - He has issued executive orders aimed at achieving this goal. - The Supreme Court rejected a similar effort…
Foundation Led by Navalny's Widow Declared Undesirable in Russia
- The foundation led by Alexei Navalny's widow has been declared an undesirable organization in Russia. - Navalny's widow, Yulia Navalnaya, urged Russians to support the Yabloko party in the elections…
Uganda Approves Sending Soldiers to International Forces in Gaza Strip
- Uganda has approved the deployment of its soldiers to join international forces in the Gaza Strip. - The Ugandan soldiers are expected to serve within international stabilization forces. - This depl…
U.S. Senate committee labels immunologist Fauci as disrespectful to Congress
- A U.S. Senate committee has labeled immunologist Dr. Anthony Fauci as "disrespectful" to Congress. - Fauci invoked his constitutional right to remain silent during a hearing with Republican senators…
School Visits Roma Homes to Tackle Skipped Classes
- A school in Jelšava is addressing student absenteeism, particularly among Roma children. - The school is implementing home visits to understand and tackle the issue of missed classes. - This initiat…
Slovakia's Heatwave Impacts Mental Health, Causing Stress and Irritability
- Prolonged exposure to high temperatures affects not only physical well-being but also mental health. - Heatwaves can disrupt mood, memory, and overall psychological state. - Slovak citizens are expe…
