The year 2025 was marked by turbulence at home and growing uncertainty abroad, said Slovak President Peter Pellegrini in his New Year’s address. He expressed hope that Slovaks would experience a better year ahead, while acknowledging that the past year was shaped by economic consolidation and its direct impact on everyday life. According to the President, a slowing economy in Slovakia and across the developed world has limited growth and reduced opportunities for better-paid jobs.
Pellegrini warned that continued consolidation of public finances is unavoidable and will place pressure on social and political cohesion. He called for responsible behavior from politicians, the media, and experts, urging calm and rational debate instead of emotional or populist solutions. Internationally, he pointed to the ongoing war in Ukraine and shifting global power dynamics, stressing that while Slovakia is a small player, it should consistently stand for peace, cooperation, and its national interests within the EU and NATO.
Opposition parties, including SaS and KDH, strongly criticized the President’s speech, accusing Pellegrini of avoiding responsibility and acting as a passive observer, and that the address lacked clarity, honesty, and concrete solutions at a time when people are facing rising living costs and declining trust in the state.
Prime Minister Robert Fico and other coalition leaders also stated that Slovakia is entering 2026 as an election year marked by deepening political divisions, but also as a confident country determined to defend its national interests at home and abroad through regional development, social and housing measures among others and a continued emphasis on peace, dialogue, and tangible benefits for citizens.
Source: TASR
