The largest book fair in Slovakia is facing intense scrutiny for providing prominent space to a publisher notorious for spreading Russian propaganda and conspiracy theories. Critics argue that this decision reflects a dangerous lack of ethical oversight, contributing to the spread of disinformation in a country already grappling with malign foreign influence.
The publisher at the centre of the controversy is Torden, a Slovak company known for promoting pro-Kremlin narratives. Its catalogue includes books glorifying Vladimir Putin, rejecting scientific consensus, and pushing fringe theories that align with Russian disinformation tactics. This year, the organisers of the fair, the Incheba exhibition company, granted Torden a prominent location near the entrance, sidelining more credible publishers to give undue visibility to this disinformation outlet.
Incheba justified this move as an inclusive policy allowing all exhibitors to participate equally. However, critics argue that such an approach demonstrates a blatant disregard for ethical standards. By platforming publishers who openly propagate anti-democratic ideologies, the organisers risk undermining Slovakia’s cultural integrity and enabling the spread of foreign malign influence under the guise of literary diversity.
This decision has led to an exodus of respected Slovak publishers. Artforum, a prominent independent publishing house, has boycotted the event for years. Its founder, Vladimír Michal, criticised Incheba directly, accusing the organiser of prioritising profit over ethical responsibility. Another major publisher, Ikar, has also withdrawn, citing declining visitor numbers and the fair’s increasing domination by conspiracy-driven exhibitors. Even Slovart, one of the few reputable publishers still attending, expressed dissatisfaction, with its director Juraj Heger describing the event as “a sad spectacle.”
Observers warn that the real victims of this ethical lapse are Slovakia’s vulnerable audiences, particularly schoolchildren who make up a significant portion of the fair’s visitors. Exposed to unverified content and propaganda, these young attendees are at risk of internalising dangerous ideologies presented as legitimate literature. By failing to protect its audience from harmful influences, the organisers bear responsibility for perpetuating disinformation and undermining critical thinking.
This controversy reflects broader challenges facing Slovakia as it contends with Russian hybrid warfare strategies targeting public trust and democratic resilience. The book fair’s willingness to legitimise such narratives is not a neutral act—it is complicity in an information war.
Source: Katarína Jakubjaková | SME
