Backlash regarding Slovakia's stance on WHO pandemic treaty

In a developing story, Slovakia's decision to oppose the World Health Organization's (WHO) pandemic treaty continues to cause significant political discord. Prime Minister Robert Fico (Smer-SD) initially announced that Slovakia would not support the treaty at the upcoming World Health Assembly in Geneva and would advocate for a formal vote rather than consensus adoption. Despite a personal phone call from World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus requesting that Slovakia withdraw its demand for a vote, Fico said the government remains firm in its stance, citing concerns over national sovereignty and human rights.

The treaty, under negotiation for several years, is intended to improve global cooperation in the event of future pandemics. While the draft acknowledges the sovereignty of individual nations, Fico argues it violates domestic decision-making. Slovakia's delegation is instructed either to vote against the treaty or abstain.

The decision has drawn criticism from medical associations, including the Slovak Association of General Practitioners and the Association of Private Doctors, who warn that rejecting the treaty could isolate Slovakia in future global health crises. They emphasize the importance of international cooperation for access to data, medicines, and protective equipment.

Health Minister Kamil Šaško and Education Minister Tomáš Drucker, and their party, Hlas-SD, also voiced their disapproval. Both Šaško and Drucker emphasized that the treaty does not infringe upon national sovereignty but aims to enhance global cooperation in pandemic preparedness, including information sharing, preparedness, and resource allocation. Šaško warned that rejecting the treaty could isolate Slovakia internationally and undermine its credibility in future health crises, while Drucker stated the government’s move favors ideology over facts and damages Slovakia's credibility.

Opposition parties, including Progresívne Slovensko and the Christian Democratic Movement (KDH), share these concerns, calling the decision irresponsible and politically motivated. Michal Šimečka, leader of Progressive Slovakia, called for parliamentary debate on the issue and suggested that Šaško should resign if the government proceeds against his stance. KDH criticized the government's approach, arguing that it could damage Slovakia's international reputation and questioning the effectiveness of internal dissent within the coalition.​

President Peter Pellegrini also opposed the government’s stance, highlighting the importance of participating in global health initiatives.

The WHO pandemic agreement is being discussed at the World Health Assembly in Geneva from May 19 to 27.

Source: TASR, SME, Euractiv