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FUTURE SLOVAKIA FORUM is a platform dedicated to democracy, advancing policies and reforms for a stronger, more integrated EU, with Slovakia at its resilient core. The Future of Slovakia Studies in the Czech Republic Shape Slovakia's Future with Us Welcome! We connect experts, students, and communities to design practical, evidence-based reforms in health, education, public finance, and decentralization — anchored in European values. Get Involved Our Priorities Our Team Support Us Invest in the Ideas That Will Rebuild Slovakia. Contribute Today. Our Vision A confident, democratic Slovakia where trusted institutions and empowered communities deliver quality public services and long-term, inclusive growth. Our Mission We turn facts into action. FSF convenes experts and citizens to craft and advance realistic policy solutions, rebuild trust, and strengthen Slovakia's resilience and prosperity. Strategic Focus Areas HEALTH SYSTEM REFORM Transforming Slovakia's healthcare system to ensure high-quality, accessible, and sustainable care for all citizens. We develop evidence-based policy recommendations on pharmaceutical reform, ambulatory care, long-term care, and healthcare financing through our Healthy Future of Slovakia expert group. Leader : Prof. R. Babeľa Contributors : V. Dvorový, Ľ. Petrík, M.Mišík, P. Polák & others EDUCATION & SKILLS Reforming Slovakia's education system to prepare citizens for 21st-century challenges through curriculum modernization, teacher development, and critical thinking skills. We combat disinformation, develop evidence-based policies for skills aligned with labor market needs, and champion innovation and entrepreneurship in high-value sectors — empowering Slovakia to seize the transformative opportunities of this millennium . PUBLIC FINANCE REFORM Implementing fiscal reforms to stabilize public finances, reduce deficits, and create a favorable environment for investment and economic growth. We focus on evidence-based budget analysis, redefining public services for efficiency, and strategically allocating funds across state, regional, and municipal levels. By streamlining service delivery costs, reassessing spending priorities, and managing budget chapters with fiscal discipline, we work to enhance Slovakia's economic competitiveness while preventing the fiscal crises that have challenged nations like Greece or France. DECENTRALIZATION & PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION Strengthening democratic governance through administrative reform, decentralization , and empowering local communities. We promote efficient public service delivery, transparent decision-making processes, and balanced regional development to reduce disparities and foster local innovation. ADDITIONAL AREAS (Monitoring & Commentary) International Relations & Security - EU/NATO alignment, Ukraine support, hybrid threats Judiciary & Anti-Corruption - Rule of law, judicial independence, democratic safeguards Note : These areas currently operate in "watchlist mode" - we monitor developments and provide expert commentary on significant issues, but do not maintain regular programmatic activity. Fund the Work. Shape the Future. Subscribe to Site First name Last name Email ZÁSADY OCHRANY OSOBNÝCH ÚDAJOV / PRIVACY POLICY Prevádzkovateľ / Data Controller: Fórum budúcnosti Slovenska, o.z. IČO: 56046260 Ľubinská 8, 811 03 Bratislava, Slovakia Email: forum@future-slovakia.eu Účel spracovania / Purpose: Zasielanie newslettera s informáciami o aktivitách, publikáciách a podujatiach FSF. Sending newsletters about FSF activities, publications, and events. Právny základ / Legal Basis: Súhlas dotknutej osoby podľa čl. 6 ods. 1 písm. a) Nariadenia GDPR a § 13 ods. 1 písm. a) zákona č. 18/2018 Z.z. Consent pursuant to Art. 6(1)(a) GDPR and § 13(1)(a) of Slovak Act No. 18/2018 Coll. Spracúvané údaje / Data Processed: Meno, priezvisko, e-mailová adresa / First name, last name, email address Doba uchovávania / Retention Period: Do odvolania súhlasu alebo do zrušenia odberu newslettera. Until consent is withdrawn or newsletter subscription is cancelled. Vaše práva / Your Rights: Právo na prístup k údajom / Right to access Právo na opravu / Right to rectification Právo na vymazanie / Right to erasure Právo na obmedzenie spracovania / Right to restrict processing Právo namietať / Right to object Právo odvolať súhlas kedykoľvek / Right to withdraw consent at any time Právo podať sťažnosť na Úrad na ochranu osobných údajov SR / Right to lodge complaint with Slovak DPA Odvolanie súhlasu / Withdrawing Consent: Súhlas môžete kedykoľvek odvolať kliknutím na odkaz "odhlásiť sa" v každom newsletteri alebo zaslaním e-mailu na forum@future-slovakia.eu. You may withdraw consent anytime by clicking "unsubscribe" in any newsletter or emailing forum@future-slovakia.eu. Kontakt na Úrad na ochranu osobných údajov SR: Hraničná 12, 820 07 Bratislava www.dataprotection.gov.sk Súhlasím so spracovaním osobných údajov na zasielanie newslettera. Súhlas môžem kedykoľvek odvolať. / I consent to receiving the newsletter and can unsubscribe anytime. 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Latest News Jan 13, 2026 WATCH AND LEARN Slovakia's fiscal collapse: a friendly warning to our Czech neighbours Read More Dec 18, 2025 Launching a New Initiative: The Future of Slovakia Studies in the Czech Republic We're motivating Slovak students at Czech universities to actively participate in shaping public policies for a modern and democratic Slovakia. Read More Nov 26, 2025 The Danube Story: Slovakia at the Crossroads of History Future Slovakia Forum presents a new moral-political analysis of Slovakia's democratic crisis — and the paths that remain open. Read More Nov 21, 2025 Future Slovakia Forum Publishes the November 21 Declaration: "Defending Ukraine Is Defending Europe" A moral and strategic declaration warning against "peace proposals" that would negotiate Ukraine's future without Ukraine's consent — and the risks to European security. Read More Sep 30, 2025 Healthy Future of Slovakia (FSF's Health Policy Group) on HTA Guidelines: Slovakia Must Stop Falling Behind Slovakia is an outlier in CEE with the slowest access to innovative medicines – FSF calls for predictability, professionalism, and systemic reform. Read More Sep 1, 2025 Ukraine’s War as Slovakia’s Historic Test New FSF analysis in Demokratický střed: Migration, energy shock, and defense boom are reshaping the country’s future Read More Jul 9, 2025 Closing the First Year of Future Slovakia Forum’s Activities One year of connecting experts, shaping reforms, and standing up for Slovakia’s democratic future. Read More Jul 2, 2025 PRESS RELEASE - Slovak Government Targets Political Pluralism New legislation aims to restrict funding, raise barriers, and weaken democratic competition Read More Mar 28, 2025 PRESS RELEASE – The Opposition Hesitates, but Slovakia Cannot Wait: A Call for a Realistic Defence Plan that Reflects the Will of the Voters Urgent Commentary – Slovakia’s Security at a Critical Crossroads Read More Mar 25, 2025 PRESS RELEASE – Voter Preferences and Slovakia’s Geopolitical Outlook: What the March 2025 Data Reveals Shifts in Political Preferences and Geopolitical Attitudes Among Slovaks: March 2025 vs. December 2024 Read More Mar 13, 2025 PRESS RELEASE - ALL THE 13 QUESTIONS - CHARTS AND DATA REVEALED AVAILABLE HERE FOR YOU - FREE FOR DOWNLOAD DATA HAS TO BE USED - MUST BE DISCUSSED! Read More Mar 12, 2025 EXPERT DISCUSSION II. - All facts (instead of guesses) REVEALED. Where does Slovakia belong? What the Data Really Says About Slovakia’s Place Between East and West – Final survey results and expert insights reveal public contradictions and strategic confusion in times of growing geopolitical pressure. Read More Mar 11, 2025 PRESS RELEASE - Slovakia at a Strategic Crossroads: New Survey Reveals Public Support for NATO, But Deep Contradictions Remain A Nation Leaning West, Thinking Neutral, and Hoping for Safety Without Sacrifice Read More Mar 7, 2025 EXPERT DISCUSSION I. - Where does Slovakia belong? Facts instead of guesses - About this Project! How do experts see Slovakia's geopolitical orientation? How did we construct the survey questions and what can they tell us? Read More Sep 30, 2024 NEWSLETTER - October 2024 Regular Update for Members and Supporters Read More Sep 17, 2024 PRESS RELEASE - Future Slovakia Forum at the Forefront of Ukraine's Recovery Insights from AmCham Slovakia's High-Level Forum Read More Jul 28, 2024 Slovakia: A Strategic Player in Ukraine’s Reconstruction! Ukraine’s EU Future and Slovakia’s Role Read More Jul 2, 2024 PRESS RELEASE – Slovakia’s Competitiveness Ranking Signals Urgent Need for Reform Future Slovakia Forum calls for structural change as IMD data places Slovakia 59th out of 67 countries in global competitiveness Read More May 15, 2024 PRESS RELEASE - Future Slovakia Forum Delivers Groundbreaking Report to CIPE 25 Expert Interviews, Strategic Recommendations, and a Comprehensive Stakeholder Map Supporting Ukraine’s Reconstruction Read More Mar 7, 2024 Future Slovakia Forum Assigned to CIPE Project Activating Slovak Enterprises to Participate in UA Reconstruction Read More

< Back Launching a New Initiative: The Future of Slovakia Studies in the Czech Republic Dec 18, 2025 We're motivating Slovak students at Czech universities to actively participate in shaping public policies for a modern and democratic Slovakia. Starting February 2026 Future Slovakia Forum is launching a new civic-educational project connecting Slovak students and young professionals studying at universities in Prague, Brno, Olomouc, and other Czech cities with FSF expert teams focused on public policy reforms. The goal is to develop new talent, build networks, and engage students in real research, reform proposals, and civic participation. Active collaboration may be rewarded by a scholarship of €400–600/month. Main project activities: Community events and expert discussions directly at dormitories in Prague (Jarov, Sinkuleho, Trója, Chodov, Na Větrníku…) and in Brno (MUNI, VUT, MENDELU) Opportunities for volunteering, mentoring, and collaboration on concrete reform projects Topics: healthcare, education, public finance, decentralization, foreign policy Collaboration on bachelor's and master's thesis topics Open to Slovak, Czech, and international students – including students with disabilities Basic information 👇 - 2-pager in English (PDF) : FSF_InfoPack_EN .pdf Download PDF • 305KB Detailed Information 👇 - 4-pager in Slovak (PDF) : FSF_InfoPack_BSŠČ_SK .pdf Download PDF • 426KB Get involved: Apply now : https://tally.so/r/3E9z7l Email : forum@future-slovakia.eu Partners : Pražská kaviaren , Brnenská kaviareň , INESS , Krajan.sk , and others. < Previous Next >

A Think tank that will support the democratic reforms in Slovakia, and improved policies in all critical sectors, such as health care, justice and education - strengthening the EU integration. About Us Expert reform platform, think-tank Future Slovakia Forum (civic association Forum Budúcnosti Slovenska) is a T-shaped think tank and expert platform connecting experts, students, and communities in developing practical reforms in key areas: Healthcare – Comprehensive system reform for accessible, quality care Education and Skills – Curriculum modernization, preparation for 21st century challenges Public Finance – Fiscal stability, efficient allocation of public resources Decentralization – Strengthening local governments and regional development We collaborate with civil society, academia, the private sector, and public institutions. We publish policy analyses, organize expert discussions, and advocate for solutions based on evidence – not ideology. Our goal is a resilient, democratic Slovakia prospering in the European context. Our Story FSF was founded in February 2024 from the need to turn facts into action. At a time when Slovakia faces polarization, disinformation, and weakening institutions, we decided to create a platform for experts who don't wait for change – but actively create it. What sets us apart: Independence – FSF's analyses and recommendations are independent of donor interests Expertise – We connect top experts from various sectors Action – From research to implementation – our solutions reach policymakers Transparency – We transparently disclose all funding sources above €1,000 Our milestones: February 2024 – Registration as a civic association, first expert group meetings March 2025 – First public expert discussion "Where Does Slovakia Belong?", response to current political challenges April 2025 – Expansion of membership base, establishment of the Healthy Future of Slovakia expert group 2025 – Active work on healthcare reform, development of other sectoral reforms We are at the beginning of our journey – but every day we build the trust, capacity, and influence needed for real change. Join us. Slovakia needs more expertise, less ideology. Team of Future Slovakia Forum Our Team Aims and Values Explore, and align with, our VALUES Join us in pursuing our AIMS. Go to Aims and Values section #JoinFSF #JoinOurTeam #BePartOfChange #ShapeSlovakia #BecomeAMember Our Partners ABOUT FSF Advancing policies that bolster democratic principles and economic freedom.

ZÁSADY OCHRANY OSOBNÝCH ÚDAJOV / PRIVACY POLICY Prevádzkovateľ / Data Controller Fórum budúcnosti Slovenska, o.z. IČO: 56046260 Ľubinská 8, 811 03 Bratislava, Slovakia Email: forum@future-slovakia.eu Účel spracovania / Purpose Zasielanie newslettera s informáciami o aktivitách, publikáciách a podujatiach FSF. Sending newsletters about FSF activities, publications, and events. Právny základ / Legal Basis Súhlas dotknutej osoby podľa čl. 6 ods. 1 písm. a) Nariadenia GDPR a § 13 ods. 1 písm. a) zákona č. 18/2018 Z.z. Consent pursuant to Art. 6(1)(a) GDPR and § 13(1)(a) of Slovak Act No. 18/2018 Coll. Spracúvané údaje / Data Processed Meno, priezvisko, e-mailová adresa / First name, last name, email address Doba uchovávania / Retention Period Do odvolania súhlasu alebo do zrušenia odberu newslettera. Until consent is withdrawn or newsletter subscription is cancelled. Vaše práva / Your Rights Právo na prístup k údajom / Right to access Právo na opravu / Right to rectification Právo na vymazanie / Right to erasure Právo na obmedzenie spracovania / Right to restrict processing Právo namietať / Right to object Právo odvolať súhlas kedykoľvek / Right to withdraw consent at any time Právo podať sťažnosť na Úrad na ochranu osobných údajov SR / Right to lodge complaint with Slovak DPA Odvolanie súhlasu / Withdrawing Consent Súhlas môžete kedykoľvek odvolať kliknutím na odkaz "odhlásiť sa" v každom newsletteri alebo zaslaním e-mailu na forum@future-slovakia.eu . You may withdraw consent anytime by clicking "unsubscribe" in any newsletter or emailing forum@future-slovakia.eu . Kontakt na Úrad na ochranu osobných údajov SR Hraničná 12, 820 07 Bratislava www.dataprotection.gov.sk

< Back PRESS RELEASE – Slovakia’s Competitiveness Ranking Signals Urgent Need for Reform Jul 2, 2024 Future Slovakia Forum calls for structural change as IMD data places Slovakia 59th out of 67 countries in global competitiveness Slovakia's Competitiveness in Global Context: The Case for Urgent Reforms In a detailed commentary for Týždeň magazine, Dávid Bořuta, executive director of Future Slovakia Forum (FSF), analyzes the findings of the latest IMD World Competitiveness Rankings, where Slovakia ranked 59th out of 67 countries. The article identifies structural weaknesses in Slovakia's economic performance, government efficiency, business practices, and infrastructure. It highlights the need for comprehensive reforms, particularly in education, innovation, investment climate, and public sector governance. Bořuta argues that financial incentives alone will not improve Slovakia’s attractiveness. Instead, systemic changes and institutional restructuring are essential to reverse brain drain, strengthen investor confidence, and ensure long-term prosperity. Drawing on IMD’s methodology, the article serves as a mirror for Slovak policymakers and the public, offering data-driven insights and practical recommendations. FSF continues its mission of fostering fact-based dialogue and evidence-based reform, reinforcing Slovakia’s path toward competitiveness and sustainable development. Read the full article (in Slovak) on .týždeň here ⬇️ : Click Here < Previous Next >

Decentralization & Public Administration Miloslav Olejár Member of FSF - Decentralization Group Coordinator Architect specializing in urban planning, municipal governance, and decentralization as tools to strengthen democratic participation at the local level. Advocates for bringing public administration closer to citizens and rebuilding the personal connection between voters and their elected representatives. After graduating from Slovak Technical University in Bratislava (Ing. arch.), he spent 20 years in Canada leading OLEJAR Architect Inc. During his Canadian tenure, he served as Chairman of the Board of Slovak Village Non-Profit Housing Corporation, managing 150 units of affordable housing — gaining hands-on experience in community-based governance and non-profit administration. Earlier in his career, he worked at the Bardejov Municipal Office in urban planning and served as city councilor (1998–2001), chairing the Committee for Environment and Territorial Planning. Founder of civic association Bardejovízie, developing urban visions for Bardejov, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Author of comprehensive municipal reform proposals addressing local governance, housing, and city administration. Marek Polonec Member of FSF - Education & Decentralisation Groups Psychologist and entrepreneur in the tourism sector, member of the leadership of the Demokrati party. Organizer of the discussion series 'Dialogue for Democracy'. Janka Červenáková Member of FSF – Healthy Future of Slovakia & Decentralization Groups Expert in health policy and public administration with over 15 years dedicated to healthcare reform, long-term care, and regional decentralization. Co-founder of VIATICUS, Slovakia's leading advocacy organization for dignified end-of-life care and advance healthcare directives, where she led pioneering national research on attitudes toward dying and palliative care. During Slovakia's transformative reform period (2002-2006), served at the Ministry of Finance leading Project Veriteľ to eliminate healthcare debt and contributing to health insurance sector restructuring. Former CEO of Apollo Health Insurance Company and co-founder of the Health Management Academy, providing management education for healthcare professionals. Currently Executive Vice President of Únia Miest Slovenska, representing 61 cities with over 2 million inhabitants, advocating for municipal autonomy, decentralization, and sustainable financing of local health and social services.

< Back EXPERT DISCUSSION I. - Where does Slovakia belong? Facts instead of guesses - About this Project! Mar 7, 2025 How do experts see Slovakia's geopolitical orientation? How did we construct the survey questions and what can they tell us? The research was carried out for us by FOCUS agency and prepared in cooperation with our collaborating experts Michal Vašeček and Milan Nico, Martin Slosiarik personally participated in the preparation. Article in týždeň about the Research: clanok do tyzdna Kam patrí Slovensko[1] .pdf Download PDF • 148KB Link to the article in .týždeň magazine: https://www.tyzden.sk/politika/119538/kam-patri-slovensko-data-namiesto-dojmov/?ref=kat Experts in the panel discussion, March 6, 2025: Miroslav Wlachovský - former Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Slovak Republic, diplomat and foreign policy expert, Globsec Distinguished Fellow Martin Slosiarik - public opinion expert, director of the FOCUS agency, which conducted the survey for o.z. Forum for the Future of Slovakia, a consultant for the FOCUS Michal Vašečka - sociologist, expert on social trends and public opinion, member of the Board of Directors of Aspen Institute CE and Director of Bratislava Policy Institute Moderator : Juraj Petrovič EXPERT PANEL DISCUSSION VIDEO: < Previous Next >

< Back PRESS RELEASE - Future Slovakia Forum Delivers Groundbreaking Report to CIPE May 15, 2024 25 Expert Interviews, Strategic Recommendations, and a Comprehensive Stakeholder Map Supporting Ukraine’s Reconstruction Bratislava, May 2024 — The Future Slovakia Forum (FSF) has successfully delivered THE REPORT to the Center for International Private Enterprise (CIPE) , culminating months of intensive research, interviews, and strategic mapping aimed at enhancing Slovakia’s role in Ukraine’s post-war recovery. Drawing on 25 in-depth interviews with high-level stakeholders — from government officials and economic advisors to regional innovators and business leaders — the report offers actionable insights and a detailed map of potential Slovak, Ukrainian, and international partners . It charts how Slovakia, particularly its eastern regions, can become a vital partner in Ukraine’s reconstruction and European integration. "David and the team at FSF have done outstanding work on Ukraine's reconstruction. Their insights and thorough analysis have been incredibly helpful, making them key contributors in Slovakia on this important issue. We look forward to continuing our collaboration, as their efforts are making a positive impact on fostering economic growth and stability in the region." – Jeff Lightfoot, Program Director for Europe, CIPE 🔍 Inside the Report: Strategic Guidelines for navigating Slovakia’s complex socio-political landscape Interview insights from top voices in policy, business, civil society, and academia A network map of over 100 stakeholders , from ministries and municipalities to think tanks and EU institutions Concrete recommendations for public-private partnerships , EU fund mobilization, and regional growth in Prešov and Košice A detailed summary of challenges, including bureaucratic barriers , risk aversion , and missed governmental coordination 🌍 Why It Matters: With the EU’s €50 billion Ukraine Facility coming into effect, Slovakia has a once-in-a-generation opportunity to take a frontline role in shaping its eastern neighborhood’s recovery. This report positions FSF and CIPE at the heart of that effort. 📩 Get Involved: To request a briefing or access the full report, contact: 📧 forum@future-slovakia.eu 🌐 www.future-slovakia.eu < Previous Next >

< Back PRESS RELEASE - Slovak Government Targets Political Pluralism Jul 2, 2025 New legislation aims to restrict funding, raise barriers, and weaken democratic competition The Slovak government has proposed a legislative package that significantly undermines the country’s democratic pluralism. Under the draft law, smaller and opposition political parties will face steep financial and administrative obstacles that threaten their ability to participate meaningfully in elections. Key measures include: Tripling election deposits for parliamentary elections (from €17,000 to €50,000) and increasing the minimum vote share required to reclaim the deposit from 2% to 5%. Raising the threshold for public funding —only parties exceeding 5% of the national vote would qualify for state contributions, effectively cutting off resources for smaller movements. Reducing existing funding by 30% whenever the public deficit exceeds 3% of GDP. Restricting donations by banning cash contributions and requiring detailed identification of all donors. Limiting parties’ ability to change their names , making organizational renewal more difficult. These changes are being advanced precisely at a time when the ruling coalition is consolidating control over public prosecutors, the police, and national media. https://www.slov-lex.sk/elegislativa/legislativne-procesy/SK/LP/2025/344 Article 31 of the Slovak Constitution clearly states: “The legal regulation of all political rights and freedoms and their interpretation and application must enable and protect free competition among political forces in a democratic society.” This legislation does the opposite. The civic association Future Slovakia Forum calls for open public debate on alternative reforms that strengthen citizens’ sovereignty and ensure fair competition, including its own proposal for a System 2027 , which envisions a two-chamber parliament and stronger regional representation. THE PRESS RELEASE (in SLOVAK): Tlačová správa volebný systém .pdf Download PDF • 199KB FULL PROPOSAL FOR EXPERT DISCUSSION "SYSTEM 2027" (in SLOVAK): Systém 2027 od FSF .pdf Download PDF • 2.41MB < Previous Next >

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< Back PRESS RELEASE – Voter Preferences and Slovakia’s Geopolitical Outlook: What the March 2025 Data Reveals Mar 25, 2025 Shifts in Political Preferences and Geopolitical Attitudes Among Slovaks: March 2025 vs. December 2024 The latest analytical release from the Future Slovakia Forum titled “Voter Preferences and Geopolitical Outlook – March 2025” This press release summarizes a comprehensive analysis linking Slovak citizens’ political preferences with their views on security, NATO, and international alliances. Based on data from a March 2025 FOCUS agency survey, the report highlights how voters of different parties perceive Russia, NATO, Ukraine, neutrality, and military engagement. The results expose sharp divisions between pro-European and pro-Russian electorates, a growing geopolitical paradox among centrist voters, and widespread susceptibility to anti-Western narratives—particularly among supporters of SMER-SSD, Republika, and other populist parties. Key findings include: Over 97% of voters from Progressive Slovakia and Demokrati support NATO membership. 82% of SMER-SSD voters do not see Russia as a threat. Nearly 50% of all respondents support neutrality, while still favoring NATO membership. Up to 39% of Slovaks perceive the U.S. as a threat, especially among far-right voters. The report calls for pro-European political actors to step up strategic communication and mobilize support for Slovakia’s Western alignment in the face of growing radical and anti-NATO narratives. The full analysis is available through FSF, including detailed charts and party-by-party breakdowns. Press release Tlačová správa Preferencie voličov politických strán a ich pohľad na geopolitické otázky F .pdf Download PDF • 141KB Survey Prieskum geopolitickej orientácie Slovenska a politické preferencie občanov MAREC 2025 .pdf Download PDF • 325KB < Previous Next >