An amendment to the Constitution of the Slovak Republic, adopted last year, represents one of the most significant changes to the constitutional framework for the protection of fundamental rights and the functioning of the rule of law since Slovakia joined the European Union. This follows from the Report on the Observance of Human Rights, including the principle of equal treatment, in the Slovak Republic for 2025, published by the Slovak National Centre for Human Rights (SNSĽP).
The report positively evaluates the enshrinement of equal pay for men and women. However, several other changes raise concerns regarding legal certainty, the protection of human rights, and the compatibility of Slovak legislation with international and European commitments. “The report points out that 2025 was marked by several trends that may have a significant impact on the quality of protection of fundamental rights and freedoms. Among the most prominent issues are the rise in hate speech, legislative changes with potential impacts on the rule of law, persistent discrimination, and deepening social inequalities,” said Silvia Porubänová, Executive Director of the Centre.
The SNSĽP also highlights the need to align national legislation and practice with international standards for the protection of the rights of persons with disabilities. Findings suggest that discrimination against people with hearing impairments in Slovakia is not merely the result of individual failures but is largely linked to inadequately designed legislative, institutional, and systemic mechanisms. The Centre therefore emphasizes that a systematic and coordinated approach based on respect for the rights of persons with disabilities can help remove persistent barriers and create an inclusive society.
A significant topic of the report is also rising poverty and social exclusion. The report points to systemic factors contributing to increasing social vulnerability, including gender inequalities, insufficient access to housing, weaker protection of workers against poverty, and financial barriers to accessing healthcare. It stresses the need for comprehensive public policies aimed at strengthening social protection and ensuring a decent standard of living. “The report emphasizes that the protection of human rights is not only a matter of legislation but also of everyday practice and social responsibility,” Porubänová added.
Source: TASR
