Together with the right-wing nationalist Slovak National Party (SNS) — with whom Fico’s party shared power, same as now — the Slovak leader fanned the flames of anti-Hungarian sentiment, even banning the Hungarian president from visiting the country. He also accused Fidesz and its leader Orbán, who had yet to become prime minister, of being a “threat” to Slovakia.
Two years later, Orbán offered Hungarian citizenship to minorities living in Slovakia, prompting Fico to ban dual citizenship a few hours later.
Culture Minister Martina Šimkovičová from SNS, who spearheaded the latest idea to toughen up the existing law, denied allegations that the law is aimed against minorities, countering that its purpose is to protect the Slovak language.
Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjártó said he received a “guarantee” from Slovak House Speaker Peter Žiga that any future language law change won’t restrict the rights of the Hungarian minority in Slovakia.
“To be sure, we are in constant consultation with the recently elected leadership of the party representing Hungarians living in Slovakia — the Hungarian Alliance,” Szijjártó said at a press conference Monday, following his meeting with Žiga.
Szijjártó’s comments signal that Hungary is very closely monitoring the amendment that is — if it passes — expected to enter into force in the summer of 2025.
According to the latest census from 2021, around 420,000 Hungarians live in Slovakia, making up around 8 percent of the population and representing by far the largest minority in the country.
