Slovakia Country Report
Slovakia is a stable and landlocked Central European country. The biggest threat to foreign travelers is petty and opportunistic theft. Foreign nationals can be targeted by thieves because of their relative wealth. Riots occur regularly over various socio-economic and political issues. Protests are usually low-level and peaceful, but can turn violent. In the spring of 2018, following the murder of a journalist, there were widespread riots and the Prime Minister was forced to resign. The European Union migration crisis in recent years has caused tensions over immigration and low-level protests. Slovakia is culturally homogenous and does not particularly welcome immigrants. However, after the escalation of military activities in neighboring Ukraine in February 2022, the country has accepted thousands of Ukrainian refugees. Corruption is a problem and foreigners may be asked for bribes.
Last updated: February 15, 2023
Security
Petty theft and opportunistic street crimes are frequent and such criminal activities are one of the main threats to foreigners in Slovakia. The risk of terrorism is low and this country has no history of recent attacks. The lack of a prominent symbolic target makes Slovakia less of a target compared to other Western European countries. Public demonstrations are held regularly in Slovakia. The rallies are usually small and peaceful, but widespread riots erupted in spring 2018, forcing the prime minister to resign.
Last updated: February 15, 2023
Infrastructure
Air travel in Slovakia is considered safe.
Overland travel can be dangerous due to the dangerous driving habits of some local road users and poorly maintained side roads.
The port of Bratislava is considered efficient.
Public infrastructure is generally considered reliable. For example, Internet services are well developed.
The country is increasingly aware of the growing threat of cyber attacks. Most attacks are either financially motivated or related to hacktivism.
Last updated: February 8, 2023
Environment
Slovakia is located in a seismic zone and is prone to earthquakes. Most earthquakes are of moderate intensity. Heavy rains are frequent during the spring and summer rainy season from March to September, and flooding can occur during this period, especially near the Danube and Morava rivers.
Last updated: March 3, 2022
Health and Medical
Traveller’s diarrhea is the most common disease among travelers to Slovakia. Basic medical facilities are available in major cities and towns throughout the country, but rural areas may lack medical services and facilities. Pharmacies generally have a wide range of products.
Last updated: September 14, 2022
Political
Slovakia is a democratic republic with parliamentary representation. After the 2019 general election, Zuzana Potová of the Progressive Party of Slovakia (PS) was elected as the first female president. After the 2021 elections, Eduard Häger of the populist party Ordinary People and Independents (OL’aNO) was elected Prime Minister. Both Mr Heger and OL’aNO said the government was cracking down on corruption. Slovakia is a politically stable country. Anti-government protests in Bratislava in September 2022 sparked parliamentary debates about possible early elections previously planned for 2024.
Last updated: November 23, 2022
