Slovaquie
On April 16, 2025, Slovakia's Parliament, dominated by lawmakers aligned with populist Prime Minister Robert Fico, approved a controversial law regulating nongovernmental organizations (NGOs). The legislation has been criticized by civic groups and analysts, who view it as a move to undermine and restrict civil society.
The law obligates NGOs with annual incomes over €35,000 to file detailed transparency reports. Organizations receiving at least €3,300 in one-off public aid or €10,000 in annual public funds will fall under the Freedom of Information Act. Additionally, NGOs must disclose donors contributing over €5,000 and list their governing bodies. Non-compliance can result in fines ranging from €1,000 to €10,000, with repeat violations potentially triggering further sanctions.
The government claims the law seeks to increase transparency regarding NGO financing and operations. Justice Minister Boris Susko stated that the amendment followed the standard legislative procedure, with adequate timeframes and opportunities for all relevant parties to participate and express their views.
Critics argue that the law is modeled after Russian policies meant to silence dissent and restrict independent civic systems. Transparency International Slovakia, a frequent target of Fico’s attacks, called the law “a weapon dressed up as reform.” Director Michal Piško said it targeted only watchdog groups, leaving business lobbyists untouched. Amnesty International described the law as a deliberate attempt to intimidate citizens and limit democratic participation.
The law’s final form was rushed through Parliament; opposition MPs were still waiting to speak when the debate was cut short. A 20-page amendment was introduced just hours before the vote, drawing accusations of legislative chaos. An analysis by Via Iuris, a nonprofit organization, stated that the law violates the constitution, including the right to privacy, freedom of expression, and the right to freely associate, as well as European Union rules. Its aim is to “stigmatize and limit the activities of civic groups,” according to the analysis.
Thousands of Slovaks protested in Bratislava and other cities against the draft legislation. Protesters chanted slogans opposing “Russian law,” underscoring concerns of rising authoritarianism amid Fico’s recent pro-Russia stance. Additional protests are planned throughout Slovakia and abroad.
The approval of this law represents a significant shift in Slovakia's approach to civil society organizations. By imposing stringent reporting requirements and potential penalties, the government has introduced measures that could deter civic engagement and activism. The move has intensified concerns over Slovakia’s political alignment and its adherence to democratic principles and human rights standards.
As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how these legal changes will be implemented and what further reactions they will provoke both domestically and internationally.
