The City of Bratislava and Bratislava boroughs are unhappy with the first 2021 census data to be released, claiming that the Statistics Office recognised 20,000 fewer inhabitants than really dwell in the city, which would mean a loss of millions of euros for the city’s budget, TASR learnt on Tuesday.
The Statistics Office counted 475,503 city inhabitants in the five boroughs. This doesn't sit well with Bratislava officials, who claim that more than 500,000 people live in Bratislava. "The capital city serves about 600,000 people, who live here. About 100,000 people don't have permanent residence," stated Bratislava Mayor Matus Vallo, calling on the Statistics Office to explain the difference.
In response to the criticism, 2021 census spokesperson Jasmina Stauder stated that the Statistics Office would publishing the data on the number of urban dwellers, including those in Bratislava boroughs, in January 2022. “Of course, once the figures are released, we'll inform the public also about the used and internationally valid methodology, provide explanations and engage in communication with towns and villages,” added Stauder.
