Thousands have taken to the streets of Slovakia to protest Prime Minister Robert Fico. These demonstrations stem from dissatisfaction with his policies, including a shift in foreign relations, the end of military aid to Ukraine, and resistance to EU sanctions against Russia.
Fico returned to power in October 2023 with promises of stability, but his actions, such as visiting Moscow in December 2024 and participating in events in China in 2025, have sparked public outrage and opposition-led rallies in 16 cities, calling for the government's resignation. The protests have been peaceful, with chants of "Slovakia is Europe."
Key grievances include tax hikes, a reduction in public holidays, rising energy prices, and widespread austerity measures in response to Slovakia's budget deficit, which reached 5.3% of GDP in 2024. Both ordinary citizens, businesses, and trade unions have criticized the government's measures.
In terms of foreign policy, Fico's repeated meetings with Russian President Putin, trips to China, and rhetoric about a potential exit from the EU or NATO have alarmed many Slovaks. Since Slovakia is economically reliant on Europe, such moves could risk economic hardship.
The protests have mainly been organized by the opposition, especially the Progressive Slovakia party and several civic initiatives. Recent polls show the opposition slightly ahead of the ruling coalition, and without resolution, early parliamentary elections may be possible.
