Slovakia stands at a critical juncture, with a resounding call for transformative change. The latest “Ako sa mate, Slovensko? (How are you, Slovakia?)” survey from late May 2023 reveals that overwhelming 69% of the population seek substantial change. The prevailing atmosphere in the society reflects the growing dissatisfaction, societal divisions and concerns over equal opportunities. Moreover, a crisis of authorities intensifies, as more than 70% of Slovaks increasingly question the genuine commitment of politicians to serving the greater good. These evolving dynamics underscore the paramount importance of restoring faith in the system through responsive actions that effectively address the concerns and engage with the electorate.

1. Unveiling the Public´s Call to Action

In the current landscape, a clear message is being voiced by the population, emphasising the imperative need for significant reforms and comprehensive modernization efforts.

• Calls for reforms: The data show that more than 80% of people are convinced Slovakia needs modernising, with over 60% of the population firmly believing that reforms and investments are essential for the country’s progress.
• Need to boost economic readiness: A mere 10% of Slovaks express confidence in the readiness and preparedness of the Slovak economy for the future. This overwhelming lack of optimism underscores the urgent need for modernization.
• Forward-thinking mindset: Looking ahead, more than a half of the respondents think that Slovak society should moderate its expenses and consumption for the sake of future generations.

These findings leave no room for doubt: there is a strong public demand and expectation for tangible progress and meaningful change. In the face of such a powerful call for reforms, the role of responsive leadership becomes crucial.

2. What should “modern Slovakia” look like?

In the latest edition of the “Ako sa máte, Slovensko? (How are you, Slovakia?)” survey, respondents were invited to share their vision of a modern and functioning Slovakia.

Corruption-free, healthy, energy self-sufficient and educated were the top four attributes of modern Slovakia the respondents mentioned. The results offer valuable insights, painting a clear picture of the people’s aspirations and expectations for the country’s future.

When asked what areas require modernisation the most, healthcare, education and utilising sustainable energy resources top the list.

• Healthcare as a persistent priority: The data reveal that healthcare stands out as the topmost priority, reflecting a persistent trend that holds substantial importance in the minds of the population. This underscores the urgent need for improvements in the healthcare sector.
• People expect investments in innovation and green technologies: Up to half of Slovaks share the opinion that Slovakia should support and invest in green and sustainable technologies and energy sources. This reflects the recognition among the population of the importance of fostering innovation and embracing environmentally-friendly practices.

Among the various aspects of a well-functioning state, respondents identified the following three pillars as the mos important: functioning healthcare system, responsible financial management and equality before the law. The data further show that improvements in these areas would play a crucial role in enhancing trust in the state.

These findings hold significant political implications. They serve as a powerful message for the agenda-setting and place considerable expectations on future political leadership. The public expects the next government to prioritise and implement comprehensive reforms that will propel the country forward, restore faith in the state as well as in Slovakia’s future trajectory.

As Slovakia’s call for change becomes louder, the question arises: Is future political leadership ready to answer this resounding demand for transformative reforms and address the concerns of the population?

3. Be prepared

The President of the National Council, Boris Kollár, has officially announced early parliamentary elections for 30 September. The formal announcement of the elections has an impact on some other deadlines that will affect the strategy and campaigns of political parties.

Parties can no longer change their names, but the possibility of merging is still in play. Political parties and coalitions have until 2 July to submit their nominations. Until then, they can continue to agree to cooperate.

Current polls show that several parties are oscillating around the 5% needed to enter Parliament. It is these parties that might be most likely to consider joining together, either in the form of a standard coalition of two or more parties or by having politicians from one party participate on another party’s electoral ticket. In the case of a coalition, the electoral quorum is 7%. Each party that obtains at least 3% will receive a financial contribution from the state after the elections.

The pre-election period is a time for businesses to clearly define the issues that matter and proactively communicate their priorities and business needs. Seesame is here to help.

How to get ready: Opportunities for businesses in the pre-election period

• Political research data will help you gain unique insights, discover how parties and their voters think about the topics that drive the pre-election discourse and stay ahead of the game.
• Regular political monitoring will keep you informed and provide an overview of current events and possible pre- and post-election scenarios.
• Sector analysis looks at the election through the lens of your business priorities and identifies the implications for business, including potential risks and opportunities.
• Stakeholder mapping will help you navigate the complex political environment and identify whom to engage.
• Public Affairs strategy will guide your priorities and activities before and after the elections.

** “Ako sa máte Slovensko?” is a continuous survey that has been monitoring the attitudes of people in Slovakia on important societal issues since 2020. It is a joint project of the research company MNFORCE, communication agency Seesame, Institute of Sociology of the Slovak Academy of Sciences and the Institute of Social Communication Research of the Slovak Academy of Sciences.

This Public Affairs Update was prepared by our Senior Public Affairs Team

• Anna Michalková, Head of Public Affairs & Partner
• Alexandra Katkinová, Senior Manager
• Miriam Hargašová, Account Manager
• Robert Antl, Senior Research Specialist

Contact: pa@seesame.com