The Slovak National Party (SNS), a right-wing pro-Kremlin party, has proposed legislation that would impose severe restrictions on civil society organisations. The vague lobbying rules and excessive reporting requirements have drawn sharp criticism from legal experts and advocacy groups, who argue the law aims to suppress civic participation and undermine democratic principles.
The Platform for Democracy, an umbrella group representing over 60 civil society organisations (CSOs), has been vocal in its opposition to the amendment. Anticipating moves to curtail civil society under Robert Fico’s government, which returned to power last year, the Platform expanded its operations to defend civic freedoms. Its members argue that this legislation, introduced by SNS MP Adam Lučanský without public consultation, constitutes a direct attack on Slovakia’s democratic foundations. The amendment drastically overhauls the Non-Profit Organisations Act, replacing its original focus on foreign funding with a punitive and ill-defined framework for regulating lobbying. Critics, including the prominent legal advocacy organisation VIA IURIS, warn that the proposal’s ambiguity and harsh penalties create serious risks for civil society.
Ambiguous Lobbying Rules Leave Civic Groups Vulnerable
Under the proposed law, civil society organisations attempting to influence public officials must register and submit quarterly reports outlining any activities that could be deemed lobbying. Non-compliance carries fines of up to €10,000, and repeated violations would enable the Ministry of Interior to dissolve the organisations involved. The lack of clear definitions for lobbying activities—whether petitions, public campaigns, or even social media posts—opens the door to arbitrary enforcement. Katarína Batková of VIA IURIS criticised the proposal, stating: “The law does not clarify what constitutes lobbying, leaving civic initiatives exposed to sanctions for even minor breaches.”
Selective Enforcement Targets Activists, Not Corporations
The legislation focuses exclusively on civil society organisations, excluding powerful lobbying actors such as corporations, trade unions, or religious institutions. This discriminatory approach raises concerns about the government’s intent to silence dissent while allowing well-connected entities to continue influencing policy without scrutiny. Critics warn that the proposed measures could deter public engagement and stifle advocacy efforts, creating an uneven playing field that undermines equality before the law.
Privacy Intrusions Threaten Donor Support
The amendment also introduces invasive transparency requirements, compelling organisations to disclose donors, including individuals contributing over €5,000 annually. Detractors argue that this provision infringes on privacy rights and risks deterring donations as individuals may fear retaliation or public backlash. Filip Vagač, Programme Director of the Platform for Democracy, called the proposal “a direct assault on free civic participation and dialogue with the state.”
A Step Toward Authoritarianism
Observers have condemned the legislation as a calculated effort to suppress dissent and weaken the influence of civil society. Such tactics, resembling authoritarian practices seen in neighbouring countries, pose a grave threat to Slovakia’s democratic framework. By targeting the core mechanisms of civic engagement, critics argue, the SNS aims to consolidate power and diminish public oversight, marking a dangerous departure from democratic norms.
Source: Platforma pre Demokraciu | .Týždeň
