The European Commission has launched infringement proceedings against Slovakia after Bratislava adopted sweeping constitutional changes that place national law above European Union legislation in matters of identity, ethics, and culture—a move the Slovak government says defends traditional values but which Brussels frames as an attack on the EU legal order.
The amendments, approved by parliament at the end of September and in force since the beginning of November, state that Slovakia “recognises only two sexes, male and female,” restrict adoption to married couples, and assert the country’s sovereignty over cultural and ethical matters. The package also introduces equal-pay guarantees and expands parental rights in education.
For the Commission, however, the most contentious element is the new power allowing Slovak authorities and courts to determine whether and to what extent EU law may apply in Slovakia. Brussels said on Friday that this contravenes the principle of the primacy of EU law, calling it a direct challenge to the autonomy, effectiveness, and uniform application of EU legislation.
A formal letter of notice was sent to Bratislava, beginning a process that could eventually end before the European Court of Justice—and potentially result in fines—if Slovakia fails to offer a satisfactory response within two months.
Prime Minister Robert Fico, who has frequently clashed with EU institutions since returning to power in 2023, has repeatedly accused Brussels of attempting to impose progressive social policies on unwilling member states.
Earlier this month, he said:
We’re looking forward to this conflict. I can’t imagine any international organisation telling us how many genders there should be or who can and can’t get married. This is purely a domestic matter and a very strong topic of national identity.
Fico has framed the constitutional reform as a “historic step” and “the best response to the collapse of Western societies, where progressivism and liberalism have been given priority.” His government argues that EU treaties allow member states to protect national identity and prioritise their own constitutional traditions.
On Friday, reacting to the Commission’s letter, he said, “I can confirm today 100 per cent that there will be no change to the constitution.”
The Commission’s decision is yet another example of punitive action against a sovereign state for refusing to align with Brussels’ liberal “values.”
