Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, a four-time holder of the office, found himself in a precarious situation following an alleged assassination attempt. Fico, aged 59, assumed power once more last October, pivoting Slovakia's foreign policy towards pro-Russian inclinations. Notably, his tenure has been marked by initiatives targeting criminal law and media reforms, sparking concerns over potential erosion of the rule of law.
Throughout his three-decade-long political career, Fico has adeptly navigated between pro-European stances and nationalist sentiments, often adapting to public opinion and changing political landscapes. Rising from a working-class background, he entered politics after obtaining a law degree in 1986, initially affiliating with the Communist Party before its dissolution in 1989. Fico subsequently served as a government lawyer and represented Slovakia at the European Court for Human Rights.
Fico's political ascent gained momentum in 2006, capitalizing on dissatisfaction with liberal economic policies to secure his first election victory. Despite forming alliances with nationalists, he steered Slovakia towards euro adoption in 2009. His subsequent terms were marked by a tough stance on migration, contributing to his re-election in 2016.
In recent years, Fico has adopted more radical positions, including vehement criticisms of Western allies, opposition to military aid for Kyiv, and skepticism towards NATO expansion. His rhetoric, particularly regarding the Ukraine conflict, resonates with many Slovakians, highlighting a segment that questions Russia's culpability.
However, Fico's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic garnered controversy, with his vocal opposition to government health measures positioning him as a prominent figure in anti-mask and anti-vaccine sentiments.
Amidst these complexities, Fico maintains a consistent promise to safeguard the living standards of marginalized populations, tapping into nostalgia for the communist era. Despite criticisms from Western allies and Ukraine, he asserts a commitment to Slovak interests and an earnest desire for an end to the conflict in Ukraine, though his approach to military aid remains contentious.
