Individual Assignment:

The Slovak Republic and The European Union

SBU540 European Politics

Prepared for: Dr. Öğr. Üyesi HAKAN ÖMER TUNCA

Prepared by: HUZAYL BIN MOHAMMAD NOOR SIA (Y2312.110019)

 Table of Content

No Contents Pages

1. Background of Slovakia

2. Slovakia and European Union

3. How Slovakia benefited from European Union

4. Conclusion

5. References
Background of Slovakia

Nestled in the heart of Central Europe, Slovakia is a captivating landlocked country with
a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. Bordered by the Czech Republic, Austria,
Hungary, Poland, and Ukraine, Slovakia boasts a strategic location that has shaped its unique
identity. Slovakia's central European location positions it as a crossroads of cultures, evident in
its diverse landscapes and historical influences. The country is surrounded by the Czech
Republic to the northwest, Austria to the southwest, Hungary to the south, Poland to the north,
and Ukraine to the east. This geographical setting has played a crucial role in shaping Slovakia's
history and interactions with neighboring nations.

Bratislava, the capital and largest city of Slovakia, stands as a testament to the country's
dynamic blend of historical charm and modern vibrancy. Home to approximately 5.4 million
people as of January 2023, Slovakia's population reflects a harmonious coexistence of traditions
and contemporary living. Slovak serves as the official language, fostering a sense of linguistic
unity among the diverse population. Slovakia operates as a parliamentary republic, where the
president holds the position of the head of state, while the prime minister serves as the head of
government. This political framework underscores the democratic principles that guide the
nation's governance.

Having adopted the Euro in 2009, Slovakia's official currency aligns with its Eurozone
membership. The country boasts a developed and high-income economy, fueled by industries
such as manufacturing, automotive production, and technological innovation. Slovakia's
integration into the European Union further enhances its economic stability and global
connectivity. Slovakia's history is deeply intertwined with that of Czechoslovakia, and its
peaceful quest for independence in 1993 marked a significant chapter. Following the dissolution
of Czechoslovakia, Slovakia emerged as an independent nation, forging its path with a renewed
sense of identity and autonomy.

Slovakia's landscapes showcase a breathtaking variety, from the picturesque Bratislava

Castle overlooking the capital to the rugged beauty of Devin Castle. The High Tatras, a majestic
mountain range, stands as a testament to the country's natural splendor, complemented by dense
forests and an array of historical and cultural sites, including Spiš Castle and Orava Castle.
Slovakia takes pride in its well-developed education system, encompassing numerous
universities and educational institutions. The predominant religion is Christianity, with a
majority adhering to Roman Catholicism. This religious heritage is intertwined with the country's
cultural fabric, influencing traditions, festivals, and daily life.

Slovakia operates as a parliamentary republic where the prime minister is responsible for
leading the government, and the president, who is directly elected, holds limited executive
powers. Zuzana Čaputová, an environmental activist, made history in March 2019 as the first
woman elected president of Slovakia.

Following the 2020 parliamentary elections, a coalition government comprised of four

parties was established. Initially led by Igor Matovič and subsequently, from April 2021, by
Eduard Heger, both affiliated with the Ordinary People and Independent Personalities (OL’aNO)
party. The political landscape underwent changes in September 2022 when the junior coalition
partner, Freedom and Solidarity (SaS), withdrew from the government. Subsequently, in
December of the same year, a vote of no confidence was passed against the Heger government in
parliament. The government is currently functioning in a caretaker capacity until early elections
are conducted in 2023.

The National Council, Slovakia's unicameral parliament, consists of 150 members

directly elected for four-year terms in a single national constituency through proportional
representation. In the parliamentary elections held in February 2020, the liberal-conservative
OL’aNO party secured the highest percentage of votes at 25 percent, surpassing the previously
dominant Slovak Social Democracy Party (Smer–SD). Forming a coalition government with
three other parties, including the conservative We Are Family party, the liberal Freedom and
Solidarity, and the newly established For the People Formation, OL’aNO secured a three-fifths
majority in Parliament, enabling the passage of constitutional amendments. The election process
was peaceful, and the results were accepted by stakeholders and the public, duly certified by the
state's election management body. The voter turnout for the election was recorded at 65 percent.
Slovakia and European Union

Slovakia joined the European Union (EU) on May 1, 2004, along with nine other
countries in the largest single expansion of the EU at that time. The process leading to Slovakia's
accession to the EU started first during the formal application of Slovakia to join EU
membership on June 27, 1995. Before becoming a full member, Slovakia first signed an
Association Agreement with the European Union in 1995. This agreement aimed to gradually
integrate Slovakia into the EU by fostering political cooperation and economic integration.

To join the EU, candidate countries must meet the Copenhagen Criteria, which include
stability of institutions, a functioning market economy, and the ability to adopt and implement
EU laws. Slovakia worked on meeting these criteria during the pre-accession process. Slovakia
officially started accession negotiations with the EU in 1998. These negotiations involved
discussions on various aspects of the country's legal, economic, and administrative systems to
ensure alignment with EU standards and regulations. Throughout the negotiation process, the
European Commission provided progress reports on Slovakia's alignment with EU criteria.
These reports were instrumental in assessing the country's readiness for EU membership. After
successful negotiations, the agreement reached needed to be ratified by the existing EU member
states. Each member state had to approve Slovakia's accession individually.

In a crucial step towards EU membership, Slovakia held a referendum on May 16-17,

2003, in which citizens were asked whether they supported Slovakia's accession to the EU. The
referendum yielded a positive result, with a significant majority of voters in favor. On May 1,
2004, Slovakia officially became a member of the European Union along with nine other
countries (the Czech Republic, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Hungary, Poland, Slovenia, Cyprus,
and Malta). This enlargement marked a historic moment in the EU's expansion to include Central
and Eastern European countries. Slovakia's accession to the EU represented a significant
milestone for the country, symbolizing its commitment to democratic principles, economic
reforms, and integration into the broader European community. It opened up new opportunities
for trade, cooperation, and collaboration with other EU member states.
How Slovakia benefited from European Union

Almost two decades have elapsed since Slovakia's accession to the EU in 2004,
prompting a timely evaluation of the economic advantages stemming from its EU membership.
The most significant benefits for Slovakia emanate from the added value in trade within the EU.
Participation in the EU Single Market propels the Slovak GDP by over 15%. Net contributions
from the EU equate to nearly 20 EUR per person monthly, along with an additional 40 EUR in
long-term returns on investment. As part of the EU, Slovakia realizes a monthly savings of 11
EUR per person through reduced interest payments on government debt.

Regarding welfare, EU membership translates to an annual income increase of up to 4000

EUR per capita, or 16000 EUR for a family of four over a five-year period. This represents the
distinction between possessing or lacking a small to medium-sized passenger car. Notably,
one-third of this welfare augmentation relies on the efficient allocation of available funds. Our
conclusions are drawn from an analysis of three primary channels through which the EU
influences the Slovak economy including direct payments from the EU and their impact on
economic growth, costs associated with financing public debt and welfare effects arising from
international trade.

Furthermore, how Slovakia benefited from the European Union can be identified as
follows. Firstly, economic growth and trade. Access to the EU Single Market has been a major
economic boon for Slovakia. The elimination of trade barriers and the facilitation of cross-border
trade have significantly contributed to the country's economic growth. Secondly, financial
support which Slovakia has received substantial financial support from the EU in the form of
structural and cohesion funds. These funds are aimed at reducing economic disparities among
EU member states and supporting projects that enhance infrastructure, innovation, and regional
development.

Moreover, investments and infrastructure development where EU funds have been

instrumental in financing infrastructure projects in Slovakia. This includes investments in
transportation, energy, and environmental initiatives, contributing to the modernization and
development of the country. The EU also has supported Slovakia in enhancing its institutions and
administrative capacities. This support has played a crucial role in fostering good governance,
improving public administration, and ensuring the effective implementation of EU policies. EU
programs such as Horizon 2020 have provided opportunities for Slovak researchers and
institutions to participate in collaborative projects, fostering innovation and research excellence.

Slovakia has benefited from the EU's cohesion policy, which aims to reduce economic
and social disparities among regions. This policy has supported less-developed regions in
Slovakia, promoting balanced and inclusive growth. The EU has played a role in promoting
environmental sustainability in Slovakia. Through environmental policies and funding, the EU
has supported initiatives addressing climate change, biodiversity, and the efficient use of
resources.

EU membership also ensures that Slovak consumers benefit from high standards of
product safety, quality, and food standards. This contributes to the well-being and protection of
Slovak citizens. During times of crisis, the EU has demonstrated solidarity with its member
states, including Slovakia. This has been evident in responses to economic challenges, public
health crises, and other unforeseen events.

In Terms of political stability and democracy, EU membership has played a role in promoting
political stability, democracy, and the rule of law in Slovakia. Adherence to EU values and
standards is a fundamental aspect of membership. Overall, the EU's contributions to Slovakia
extend across economic, social, and political dimensions, fostering development, stability, and
cooperation within the European community.
Conclusion

In conclusion, Slovakia, nestled in the heart of Central Europe, has emerged as a dynamic
and resilient nation with a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. The strategic
location of Slovakia as a crossroads of cultures is evident in its diverse landscapes and historical
influences, shaping the country's unique identity. With a population of approximately 5.4 million
people, Slovakia's capital, Bratislava, stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of
traditions and modern vibrancy. Operating as a parliamentary republic, Slovakia has successfully
integrated into the European Union (EU) since its accession in 2004. The EU membership has
brought forth numerous economic benefits, particularly through the added value of trade within
the EU Single Market. Slovakia's GDP has experienced a significant uplift, and net contributions
from the EU contribute to monthly savings and long-term returns on investment for its citizens.

The welfare impact of EU membership is profound, translating into increased annual

income for individuals and families. The efficient allocation of available funds plays a crucial
role in realizing the full potential of welfare benefits. Slovakia has actively contributed to the EU
across various domains, including economic growth, regional development, security cooperation,
and adherence to democratic values. The EU has been instrumental in supporting Slovakia's
infrastructure development, research and innovation, environmental sustainability, and crisis
response. The cohesion policy has promoted balanced growth, while high standards in consumer
protection and product safety enhance the well-being of Slovak citizens. As Slovakia continues
its journey within the EU, the contributions and collaborations with fellow member states foster
development, stability, and a shared commitment to the European project.

Slovakia's story is one of resilience, progress, and integration, reflecting the

transformative power of its EU membership. As the country navigates the complexities of
governance and economic challenges, the enduring partnership with the European Union
continues to shape Slovakia's trajectory, promising a future marked by cooperation, prosperity,
and shared values.
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