Major Challenges | People of visible difference still face widespread xenophobia from conservative parts of society, which is still considered to be homogenous. Very strict asylum policy, protectionist measures; "no immigrants" - policy; Tensions with large Hungarian minority, danger of escalation with nationalist party in present government. Protectionist policies accompanied by highlighting potential dangers of secularisation or non-Catholic religious frameworks. Increase in right-wing extremism. |
Main Interpretations | The present government focuses on "strengthening the national, traditional values and supporting patriotism" (Slovak Nationalist Party being part of the government coalition); official policies for supporting minorites (mainly focussing on culture, in the case of Roma also social and economic integration) |
No general authority, but main actor:
Vice Minister for Knowledge-based Society, European Affairs, Human Rights and Minorities
(with seat at the Office of Government)
(http://www.caplovic.vlada.gov.sk/)
Also responsible for the Office of the
Special Commissioner for Roma Communities
(http://www.vlada.gov.sk/orgovanova)
who launched several integration policies and measures for Roma communities in the field of housing, social inclusion and education.
EX: Roma assistants project, providing Roma communities with special assistance from their own people, serving as an interface between state structures and communities.
Policies:
English version: http://www-8.mensiny.vlada.gov.sk/data/files/2161.doc
EYID-COORDINATION BODY:
Ministry of Culture
(http://www.culture.gov.sk/)
Ministry of Culture
(http://www.culture.gov.sk/)
In charge of policy-making and financing of culture of national minorities with declared intention of strengthening the dialogue with municipalities and communities to this respect. No specific ICD-oriented policies.
Civil society (EX):
International Documentary Film Festival "One World"
(http://www.jedensvet.sk/2006/?lang=EN)
Organised by the People in Peril Association, the annual festival (in the 7th year) presents films on the theme of human rights.
Cultural Venue Stanica
(http://www.stanica.sk/)
Open cultural space, run by the NGO Truc Sphérique, an alliance of committed professionals and volunteers aiming to support creativitiy and openness for new forms of expressions. Established in an operating small train station in the biggest city of Central Slovakia, creating a framework for a progressive, multidisciplinary cultural site with international programming. Very exceptional project, since independent cultural organisations and initiatives are almost not existant due to lack of funding.
Ministry of Education
(http://www.minedu.sk/)
Educational activites for teachers and students focused on multiculturalism, human rights, issues of discrimination etc.; integrated education of Roma children and youth.
PLUS: Many activities performed by various NGOs.
Ministry of Education
(http://www.minedu.sk/)
PLUS: Many activities performed by various NGOs.
Ministry of Education
(http://www.minedu.sk/)
No specific initiatives.
As regards the support to local and minority culture, the present government is strengthening the dialogue with municipalities and regional governments.
With reference to ICD, NGOs are far more active than the government.
CIVIL SOCIETY (EX):
People against Racism
(http://www.rasizmus.sk/)
Since 1997, on a voluntary basis, and since 2000 as a professional initiative, People Against Racism monitors racist expressions in Slovakia, immediately reacts on racists activities and racial attacks of Neo-Nazis. It fights against intolerance by organising social activities aimed at the creation of a multi-cultural society, safe for each citizen.
Milan Simecka Foundation
(http://www.nadaciamilanasimecku.sk/)
Projects with Roma communities, based on their active participation in regeneration of their settlements, listening to their opinions and creation of the environment for their local activities. Promoting the ideas of multiculturalism, human rights and democratic citizenship as an integral part of all levels of education. Project "New Minorities and Us" planned for 2008 with the aim to raise awareness of general population about new minorities) and migration.
Centre for the Research of Ethnicity and Culture - CVEK
(http://www.cvek.sk/)
NGO focused on research and analytical activities in the sphere of broadly understood culture and ethnicity. Supports expert activities and fosters expert dialogue on issues such as minorities, social exclusion, the strengthening of social cohesion, social construction of ethnic and cultural identity. Activities include publishing, organising seminars, conferences and workshops, advisory services.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
(http://www.foreign.gov.sk/)
Ministry of Culture (see above).
No specific ICD-addressing initiatives, regular activities in financing selected international projects.
