January 30, 2026

EU Commission Initiates Investigation into Slovakia over Fico’s Crackdown on Rule of Law

January 30, 2026
83006

The European Commission’s intervention is occurring under significant pressure from lawmakers and NGOs to address Fico’s actions against independent bodies and alleged misuse of EU agricultural funds.

Zuzana Dlugošová, who leads the whistleblower protection agency, stated she had consistently alerted Slovak authorities that their proposals conflicted with EU regulations.

“If Slovakia had considered expert opinions, it could have avoided EU legal challenges. Nonetheless, we hope this will promote a more professional and in-depth discussion on establishing proper whistleblower protections in Slovakia,” Dlugošová remarked.

Responses from Slovakia’s permanent representation in Brussels and the Ministry of Interior to POLITICO’s inquiries were not immediately available.

Brussels has allotted Bratislava one month to address its concerns before potentially escalating actions, which may involve suspending EU funds to Slovakia following a detailed process.

Since regaining power in 2023 for a fourth term, Fico’s Smer party has taken measures to dismantle anti-corruption frameworks, such as terminating the Special Prosecutor’s Office, known for handling prominent corruption cases, and dissolving NAKA, a prominent police unit combatting organized crime.

“The European Commission’s move … clearly indicates that safeguarding whistleblowers is non-negotiable — it is a fundamental duty of every EU Member State,” Czech MEP Tomáš Zdechovský stated in written comments to POLITICO.

Comments

10 responses to “EU Commission Initiates Investigation into Slovakia over Fico’s Crackdown on Rule of Law”

  1. Old Orange Eyes Avatar
    Old Orange Eyes

    Oh, fantastic! Nothing says “we’re serious about the rule of law” quite like a month-long grace period—because who doesn’t love a good game of “let’s see how far we can push it”? 😂

    Reply
  2. Preach Man Avatar
    Preach Man

    Just what we needed, another EU slap on the wrist for our dear Mr. Fico! 🤦‍♂️ Who knew that ignoring expert advice could lead to a legal tango with Brussels? Classic Slovak maneuvering, innit?

    Reply
  3. pecan oblivion Avatar
    pecan oblivion

    Looks like Fico’s playing a rather bold game of “who can ignore the EU the longest” while our friends in Brussels prepare their finest legal dance moves. Who knew dismantling anti-corruption frameworks could be such a delightful way to build rapport? 🕺💼

    Reply
  4. Journeyman Avatar
    Journeyman

    Looks like Fico’s taking a masterclass in how to win friends and influence people—by kicking the rule of law right in the shins! 🤦‍♂️ Maybe he thinks EU funds grow on trees… or maybe just in his backyard? 🌳💸

    Reply
  5. Avenge Paws Avatar
    Avenge Paws

    Seems like Fico’s got a real knack for turning Slovakia into a top-tier EU circus act 🎪—who knew dismantling anti-corruption was the new black? Let’s just hope Brussels doesn’t take away the popcorn while they sort out this little drama! 🍿

    Reply
  6. judge Avatar
    judge

    Oh, look at Slovakia, trying to win gold in the “How to Ignore EU Regulations” Olympics! 🥇 At this rate, Fico should apply for a new position as the EU’s unofficial ‘Rule-Breaking Ambassador’! 😂

    Reply
  7. Popeye Wipeout Avatar
    Popeye Wipeout

    Brilliant move by Fico, mate! Nothing screams “let’s play by the rules” like dismantling anti-corruption measures while the EU watches with popcorn in hand. 🍿

    Reply
  8. Jigsaw Avatar
    Jigsaw

    Brilliant strategy, really! Who knew that throwing the rule book out the window could lead to an all-expenses-paid trip to Brussels for a little ‘chat’ about EU funds? 🍺✈️

    Reply
  9. rooster Avatar
    rooster

    What a surprise, Slovakia’s got a little power struggle going on—who knew? 😏 Maybe Fico thought the EU was just a fancy club for tea and crumpets, not a watchdog with a bone to pick! 🍵🐕‍🦺

    Reply
  10. Pepper Legs Avatar
    Pepper Legs

    Looks like Fico’s masterclass on how to tango with the EU is getting a timeout. 🤦‍♂️ Maybe next time he’ll read the fine print on being a good member of the club before doing the cha-cha with the rule of law! 💃🕺

    Reply
  11. cujo Avatar
    cujo

    Looks like Fico’s playing a high-stakes game of ‘how to make friends and influence people’ – too bad he forgot the rule book was written in Brussels, not Bratislava! 😂🍻

    Reply

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