Bratislava – Life in Slovakia has greatly improved since the country joined the European Union. Financial support from the EU budget has driven economic growth and serves as a vital source of public investment. This was highlighted by Radim Dvořák, acting head of the European Commission (EC) Representation in Slovakia, during an event marking the 21st anniversary of Slovakia’s EU accession, according to TASR.
The EC Representation pointed out that a Eurobarometer survey conducted last December revealed that 53 percent of Slovaks express trust in the EU, with two-thirds of respondents feeling a sense of connection to the Union.
“For 21 years, we have been a part of Europe, which is built upon the principles of freedom, democracy, peaceful coexistence, and respect for human dignity. EU membership has not only provided Slovakia with economic growth and stability but has also ensured that we can tackle significant challenges together,” Dvořák stated. He emphasized that Slovakia is actively contributing to shaping the future of Europe. “In a time of rapid global change, we must recognize that unity, cooperation, and the values of the EU are not guaranteed; they are the foundation of our European community, which we must cherish and support,” he added.
The European Commission also noted that from 2004 to 2022, Slovakia received over 36 billion euros in EU funding, with the inclusion of the Recovery and Resilience Facility bringing the total to more than 38 billion euros. These funds have supported numerous projects across regional development, transportation, education, science, healthcare, and environmental conservation. European financing has led to the construction and renovation of schools, kindergartens, and hospitals, as well as the restoration of public squares and the development of scientific parks and modernized transportation networks. For the financial period spanning 2021 to 2027, Slovakia is eligible for an additional 13 billion euros from EU resources.
Since joining the EU, Slovakia has experienced consistent economic growth, with its gross national income rising by an average of seven percent each year. The EC has observed that the Slovak economy has been converging towards the average of other member states since 2004, with GDP per capita increasing from 59 percent of the EU average in 2004 to 71 percent in 2022. (May 1)
“For 21 years, we have belonged to Europe, whose pillars are freedom, democracy, peaceful coexistence, and respect for human beings. Membership in the European Union has brought Slovakia not only economic growth and stability but also the assurance that we can face great challenges together.” Radim Dvořák.
Leave a Reply