In an interview with journalist Jaroslav Barborák, political scientist Radoslav Štefančík warns that Slovakia risks “returning to a dark era” due to slow democratic progress and regressive political norms, a stark contrast to the democratic resilience of other European nations post-conflict.
Political System Reforms or Diversionary Tactics?
Barborák opens by questioning whether recent reforms proposed by Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, aimed at reducing the number of political parties, are a legitimate response to systemic issues or merely a distraction. Štefančík suggests that Fico’s use of the term “political system reform” primarily targets party regulation rather than broader judicial or political structures. Despite Fico’s comments on Slovakia’s excessive number of parties, Štefančík explains that typically only a handful of parties gain parliamentary representation.
When Barborák probes the motivations for proposing a 7% parliamentary entry threshold and a significant financial barrier, Štefančík remarks that such measures risk distorting democratic processes and limiting political competition, resembling policies seen in non-EU nations. He warns that these moves could prevent new political voices and enforce a quasi-elitist control over Slovakia’s democracy.
International Comparisons and Presidential Pushback
In discussing international democratic standards, Štefančík notes that Slovakia’s proposed policies deviate from typical European norms, where entry thresholds are often much lower, set around 3-5%. He opposes the idea of introducing financial barriers, such as the proposed €500,000 fee for new parties, which could limit political competition. President Peter Pellegrini’s opposition to these reforms, Štefančík adds, is a positive sign of Slovakia’s commitment to liberal democracy.
Fico’s Intentions: Reform or Strategic Diversion?
Reflecting on Fico’s motivations, Štefančík proposes that the Prime Minister’s focus on party reforms may be a calculated effort to divert public attention from more pressing issues, such as impending teacher strikes and healthcare staff shortages. By steering the national conversation towards electoral reforms, Fico effectively shifts the public’s gaze from these current governmental challenges.
Rising Internal Tensions and Coalition Stability
Barborák highlights internal dissent within the government ranks, asking if this discord poses a serious risk to coalition stability. Štefančík acknowledges the growing unrest but indicates that, for now, the coalition remains functional despite these tensions. However, he warns that individual politicians like Rudolf Huliak, seeking greater prominence within the SNS (Slovak National Party), could disrupt this precarious equilibrium.
EU Dependency and Strategic Alliances: Evaluating Fico’s China Outreach
Turning to Fico’s recent diplomatic trip to China, Barborák raises concerns over Slovakia’s strategic partnership with China, particularly amid criticism that Chinese investment could compromise Slovakia’s security and democratic values. Štefančík is critical, noting Slovakia’s significant financial dependency on the European Union and warning against any shift in loyalty. He argues that Slovakia’s infrastructure is largely funded by EU contributions, with minimal Chinese investment, and cautions that this dependency should shape foreign policy.
Slovakia’s Democratic Backslide Since 1989
Reflecting on Slovakia’s democratic journey since the Velvet Revolution, Štefančík voices regret over the country’s relative stagnation, especially when compared to Germany’s post-war progress. He points to troubling trends, such as attacks on media independence, governmental distrust of civil society, and threats against individuals expressing dissent. Slovakia, he warns, risks drifting back towards authoritarianism, deviating from the democratic ideals envisioned at the fall of communism.
This interview provides insight into Štefančík’s perspective on Slovakia’s political landscape, where proposed reforms may conceal self-serving agendas. As Slovakia approaches the anniversary of its democratic transformation, Štefančík underscores the need to defend and deepen democratic values actively, in order to resist authoritarian drift.
Source: Jaroslav Barborák | Aktuality.sk
