The Via Iuris organization has criticized proposed changes to the NGO Act, particularly an amending proposal by MP Adam Lučanský (Slovak National Party/SNS). Via Iuris argues that if passed, the bill would stigmatize NGOs and restrict their activities.
The organization emphasized that the amendment was introduced without prior debate and violates both the Slovak Constitution and European law. Via Iuris commissioned an analysis highlighting the bill’s negative effects.
According to a Via Iuris spokesperson, "Lučanský's proposal was submitted to Parliament without expert debate and introduces unconstitutional elements, conflicting with EU law and the European Convention on Human Rights."
The NGO also raised concerns about the vague definition of NGO lobbying in the bill, warning it could lead to unjust penalties. "If the law is unclear, organizations could be fined for actions they don't consider lobbying," the spokesperson said.
Via Iuris further criticized the law for being discriminatory, as it regulates only NGO lobbying and ignores lobbying by businesses and unions. They also objected to a provision requiring NGOs to publish donor information, which they believe violates privacy rights. The EU Court of Justice ruled against similar laws in Hungary for this reason, warning it could deter donations to human rights organizations.
Lastly, the bill's new obligation for NGOs to provide public information under the Free Access to Information Act could overwhelm state bodies and authorities, Via Iuris warned.
Source: TASR
