Protesters are gathering in Slovak cities to condemn laws approved by the parliament, suppress free expression and stating that they could hinder the work of non-governmental organizations.
Protesters at Freedom Square in the capital Bratislava compared the measure to Russia’s “foreigner” law. This has been criticized as oppressive, marching to the Presidential Palace and urges President Peter Pellegrini to reject the bill.
“It’s not Russian law,” they chanted, “Slovakia is Europe.”
Congress passed the measure on April 17th, and is supported by Prime Minister Robert Fico, who frequently attacked NGOs.
FICO ally Pellegrini has recently questioned some of FICO’s policies, but has not commented on the bill.
He will need to consider the law until May 2nd.
This measure requires, among other things, to publish a report containing details about NGOs’ leaders and donors who have contributed over 5,000 euros per year.
The government says the measure will make civil groups more transparent in funding and functioning.
An analysis by nonprofit organization Iuris Via Iuris said the law violates the constitution, including the right to privacy, freedom of expression, rights related to freedom, and rules of the European Union.
The purpose is to “condemn and restrict the activities of citizen groups,” the group says.
The rallies in Bratislava and five other cities are part of a wave of protest supported by FICO’s trip to Moscow in December for a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
FICO plans to travel to Moscow again for the May 9th military parade to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Nazi Germany’s defeat in World War II.
No other European Union leaders have announced such plans.
Organizers said protests in 20 other locations in Slovakia and overseas are planned for Friday.
A divisive figure at home and abroad, FICO returned to power in 2003 after the left-wing Smer party won parliamentary elections on pro-Russia and anti-AU platforms.
His government moved to overhaul public broadcasting to help the government manage public television and radio.
That, along with amendments to the criminal law to eliminate special anti-graft prosecutors, critics say FICO is evidence of FICO leading a more dictatorial path.
