Recent reforms by Robert Fico’s government in Bratislava have drawn intense scrutiny for undermining the rule of law — prompting the European Parliament to renew its call to freeze EU funding for Slovakia.
Critics and Brussels officials point to a targeted dismantling of democratic checks and balances, specifically highlighting the controversial dissolution of the special prosecution office, cuts to corruption penalties, and escalating restrictions on independent media and civil society.
In a resolution voted on Tuesday (20 May), a huge majority of MEPs urged the European Commission to trigger the so-called conditionality mechanism, a tool which could ultimately suspend EU funds.
In its resolution, the European Parliament condemned the misuse of EU funds in Slovakia and also expressed deep concern over the deterioration of the rule of law in the country. The resolution also includes a call on the commission to take action.
The text was backed by 347 MEPs, with 165 against and 25 abstentions.
