On Thursday, the 11th of December, President Peter Pellegrini vetoed the law transforming the Office for the Protection of Whistleblowers into a new office, citing the lack of justification for a fast-tracked legislative process, insufficient protection for victims of crimes, and unresolved concerns from the European Commission that could affect Slovakia’s EU funding.
According to President Pellegrini, the government can achieve their legitimate goals without violating legislative rules, without possible violations of the principles of the rule of law, and without endangering Slovak interests towards the European Union. Pellegrini said that there are still legitimate concerns about the risk of suspension of part of European funds for Slovakia. Despite the presidential veto, the Parliament overrode it on Friday, 12 December, establishing the new Office for the Protection of Crime Victims and Whistleblowers.
The new office will handle whistleblower cases, oversee compensation for crime victims, and review protection measures under criminal and administrative proceedings, including reassessing reports for credibility and good faith. Alexandra Znášiková from the Office for the Protection of Whistleblowers criticized the move, saying it weakens whistleblower protections, undermines trust in the legal system, and risks political interference in a previously independent office. Political reactions were divided: Prime Minister Robert Fico and Smer-SD backed overriding the veto, while the SNS criticized Pellegrini for his decision and vowed not to support him in future presidential elections. Hlas-SD, although respecting the president’s veto, stressed that the law is essential to correct long-standing failures in the whistleblower protection system, ensuring accountability, clarity, and justice. The legislation is set to take effect on 1 January 2026.
Source: TASR, STVR
