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HRC - Slovakia [folder 2]
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Alison (Lissa) Muscatine's Files
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Withdrawal/Redaction Sheet
Clinton Library
DOCUMENT NO.
SUBJECT/TITLE
DATE
RESTRICTION
AND TYPE
001. note
re: Slovakia (1 page)
00/00/0000
P1/b(1)
002. paper
re: Slovakia (1 page)
06/18/1996
P1/b(1)
COLLECTION:
Clinton Presidential Records
Speechwriting
Lissa Muscatine
OA/Box Number: 12085
FOLDER TITLE:
HRC - Slovakia [folder 2]
2017-1164-S
rc2759
RESTRICTION CODES
Presidential Records Act - [44 U.S.C. 2204(a)|
Freedom of Information Act - 15 U.S.C. 552(b)]
PI National Security Classified Information [(a)(I) of the PRA|
b(1) National security classified information |(b)(1) of the FOIA]
P2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office [(a)(2) of the PRA]
b(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of
P3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(a)(3) of the PRAI
an agency |(b)(2) of the FOIA]
P4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or
b(3) Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA]
financial information [(a)(4) of the PRA]
b(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial
P5 Release would disclose confidential advice between the President
information |(b)(4) of the FOIA|
and his advisors, or between such advisors |a)(5) of the PRAI
b(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
P6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
personal privacy |(b)(6) of the FOIA]
personal privacy |(a)(6) of the PRAI
b(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement
purposes |(b)(7) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed
b(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
of gift.
financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA]
PRM. Personal record misfile defined in accordance with 44 U.S.C.
b(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
2201(3).
concerning wells |(b)(9) of the FOIA]
RR. Document will be reviewed upon request.
SLOVAKIA NGO FORUM
I have come to Central Europe with a message of hope,
encouragement and support from the American people. I also bring
special greetings from Slovak Americans who are proud of their ancestral
homeland and the progress you are making toward a free market
democracy. Slovakia is a new nation with an old history and a strong
culture -- a new nation with a future among the democracies of Europe.
We have already seen you create the basic institutions of democracy
where none existed before, and your economy is growing rapidly even
under difficult conditions. You achieved the Velvet Revolution, and now
the challenges of building a civil society lie ahead. For a democracy and
a free market economy to blossom fully, certain conditions must exist.
Those conditions include respect for the rule of law, a free press, an
independent judiciary, and for minorities.
In light of the challenges that all democracies share, we must join in
an alliance of democratic values. We must recognize that democracy is
not just about institutions; it is also about the internalization of democratic
values in people's hearts, minds and everyday lives.
In the short time I've been in Central Europe, I've already met with
people who are forging this alliance of values and building democracy
from the ground up. Non-governmental organizations throughout Central
Europe today play a vital role in building a civil society and making
democracy work. And, that is why I am eager to meet here with you
today. I have enormous respect for the work that non-governmental
groups are doing often under very trying conditions. Building a civil
society is a difficult process, and I know you are facing special challenges
here in Slovakia. I look forward to hearing more about the successes you
have had and the obstacles that remain in our discussion today.
SLOVAKIA
11. Current events in Slovakia
Slovakia is another candidate for NATO membership, but Karsten Voigt, Chairman of the
North Atlantic Assembly (NAA) said that Slovakian democracy as well as general regional
stability must appear to be strengthened by such a move in order for member states to
approve it. CTK National News Wire reports that the biggest unresolved issues in Slovakian
democracy are "democratic culture, the opposition's right to interfere in decision making and
the question of the public media." Slovakia is receiving an increasing number of refugees
from other countries, but many of these individuals are using the nation as a stop-over point
for other asylum places. The Czech Republic, Austria, Hungary and Germany all receive
more refugees annually. Meanwhile, Slovak President Kovac met with Hungarian President
Arpad Goncz and delivered an address to the Hungarian Parliament. The two countries are
negotiating a basic treaty that among other issues would protect ethnic Hungarians living in
Slovakia (there are about 560,000). The present Slovak ruling coalition is composed of the
Slovak National Party (SNS), Slovak Workers' Party (ZRS) and Movement for a Democratic
Slovakia (HZSD), the first two of which are weaker than the third.
Withdrawal/Redaction Marker
Clinton Library
DOCUMENT NO.
SUBJECT/TITLE
DATE
RESTRICTION
AND TYPE
001. note
re: Slovakia (1 page)
00/00/0000
P1/b(1)
COLLECTION:
Clinton Presidential Records
Speechwriting
Lissa Muscatine
OA/Box Number: 12085
FOLDER TITLE:
HRC - Slovakia [folder 2]
2017-1164-S
rc2759
RESTRICTION CODES
Presidential Records Act - [44 U.S.C. 2204(a)]
Freedom of Information Act - [5 U.S.C. 552(b)]
P1 National Security Classified Information [(a)(1) of the PRA]
b(1) National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIA]
P2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office [(a)(2) of the PRA]
b(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of
P3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(a)(3) of the PRA]
an agency [(b)(2) of the FOIA]
P4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or
b(3) Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA]
financial information [(a)(4) of the PRA]
b(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial
P5 Release would disclose confidential advice between the President
information [(b)(4) of the FOIA]
and his advisors, or between such advisors [a)(5) of the PRA]
b(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
P6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
personal privacy [(b)(6) of the FOIA]
personal privacy [(a)(6) of the PRA]
b(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement
purposes [(b)(7) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed
b(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
of gift.
financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA]
PRM. Personal record misfile defined in accordance with 44 U.S.C.
b(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
2201(3).
concerning wells [(b)(9) of the FOIA]
RR. Document will be reviewed upon request.
draft
FIRST LADY HILLARY RODHAM CLINTON
REMARKS FOR MEETING WITH NGO LEADERS
BRATISLAVA, SLOVAKIA
JULY X, 1996
It is a great privilege and honor to be here today, in a
city so steeped in history and tradition. I am told that the
young musical prodigies Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Franz Lizst
gave some of their first concerts in the palaces of Bratislava.
Legendary Kings and Queens were crowned here. And many
milestones in Slovakian history are marked in Bratislava: The
first Slovak newspaper and the first Slovak novel, for instance,
were published in this city.
Today, once again, as Slovakians, you find yourselves living
in a momentous and historic time. In recent years, this
thousand-year old city has become the seat of one of the world's
newest democracies. The seeds of democracy sowed many years
before have now taken root and begun to blossom. I am grateful
for this opportunity to meet so many of you who are working to
strengthen democracy in Slovakia.
I am here to let you know that the United States will stand
behind Slovakia as you strive to establish a full-fledged
democracy and a flourishing free-market economy. America
believes that the integration of all of Europe's new democracies
is one of our most fundamental challenges in the post-Cold War
world. And we are eagerly looking forward to the day when we
will welcome Slovakia into the family of democratic nations.
We have a saying my country, "Freedom is not free." I know
that the effort to instill democratic values in the hearts and
minds of people throughout this ancient land is and will not be
easy. We must always be vigilant and guard against the forces of
totalitarianism, intolerance, and isolation that can undermine
the very prinicples of a free society: rule of law, free speech,
respect for diversity.
One of the greatest guardians and nurturers of democracy is
a free press. A great American president, Franklin Delano
Roosevelt once said, "Freedom of conscience, of education, of
speech, of assembly, are among the very fundamentals of democracy
and all of them would be nullified should freedom of the press
ever be successfully challenged."
Roosevelt recognized this even though he and his wife were
constantly being criticized in the newspapers. I can say from my
own experience that for many public figures, living in a country
with a vibrant and often critical free press is not always easy.
But a free press is an effective forum for the honest exchange of
ideas -- ideas that could help move countries forward. It can
shed light on truths too easily obscured by demagoguery,
prejudice, and ignorance.
But even more fundamental to an honest and successful
democracy are people like you who understand and are acting
according to democratic values. All of you in the NGO sector are
playing crucial roles in Slovakia's democratic transformation.
You are stepping in to meet societal needs where the market or
the government have not. And you are courageously continuing to
meet these needs despite recent attempts to thwart your efforts.
I am eager to hear more about your work, your dedication to
democracy, and your perseverance under difficult conditions.
I have no doubt that with your capable and resourceful
leadership, Slovakia will soon meet the challenges of becoming a
prosperous and democratic nation.
###
06/18/96 TUE 10:50 FAX 2027364853
EUR/NCE
001
FROM: Trevor Evans/Kurt Donnelly
EUR/NCE - Poland Desk
Department of State
2) 647-4139/736-7152
(202) 736-4853 FAX
TO: Milanne Verveer, Dep Chief of Staff
FAX NUMBER: 456-6244
SUBJECT: Slombia Events.
REMARKS: Milanne:
Here are the deaft event papers we have
received so for from Bratislava. I know you
are still debating which events are the best ones
for the visit so hope that there papers might
help you arrive at a decision.
Two
TOTAL NUMBER OF PAGES (including cover sheet): $ 10 &
- Note: also see national schedule for Budapest,
a fax which was sent yes enday but may not have
reached you P.
06/18/96 TUE 10:51 FAX 2027364853
EUR/NCE
002
Meeting with Slovak Judges
Context of the Event
We propose inviting a cross-section of the Slovak judiciary,
including representatives from the Constitutional Court and
prominent women judges (two of the Constitutional Court judges are
women), to a roundtable discussion on legal and practical issues
facing the Slovak courts today, followed by a reception. The
discussion topic could focus on any of the following: challenges
facing the judiciary in the new democracies; avoiding political
influence in judicial decisionmaking; strengthening the standards
and performance of judges; or encouraging public confidence in the
legal system.
The event would be held at Zichy Palace and would include ten to
twelve judges. We would anticipate about a thirty-minute
discussion, followed by a reception.
Your Objectives:
*
To show support for the judiciary, to acknowledge their
accomplishments and to encourage continued steps towards
independent decisionmaking
*
To meet a courageous and outstanding group of Slovak judges
*
To exchange ideas
Talking Points:
*
As a lawyer, I share your concerns for increasing the public's
confidence that their legal system will protect their rights,
and for developing an appreciation of the role an independent
judiciary plays in a democracy.
*
I understand that your constitutional court has shown great
independence in decisions it has made upholding the
constitution despite sharp political controversies.
*
I would be interested in hearing about your experiences and
some of the challenges you are facing in your work.
06/18/96 TUE 10:51 FAX 2027364853
EUR/NCE
1
003
Scenario
Slovakia: Meeting with President Michal Kovac
Context of the Event
At this event, you will be meeting with Michal Kovac,
Slovakia's first President, elected by Parliament in 1993 for a
five year term. As a head of state with limited constitutional
powers, the President believes that he has a leading role to
play in protecting and expanding Slovakia's democracy. Kovac
has met with President Clinton on four occasions, the most
recent being in New York last October during the United Nations
fiftieth anniversary celebrations, and, also in October in
Cedar Rapids, Iowa at the opening of a Czecho-Slovak Museum.
The President's Chief of Protocol will greet you at the
entrance to the Primate's Palace (where the President's office
is located) and will escort you through an honor guard ceremony
and then to the meeting site. The meeting will either be held
in the President's office or in one of the Palace's tapestry
rooms. You and your delegation will be asked to line up to
await the President's arrival. Likely participants in the
meeting would be Pavol Demes (Foreign Policy Advisor), Jan
Findra (Chief of the President's Office), Vladimir Stefko
(Spokesman and Director of Press section), and Zuzana Luptakova
(Head of Protocol). It is anticipated that there will be photo
opportunities during the honor guard event as well as
before/after the meeting itself.
Your Objectives
To express U.S. support for Slovakia's emerging democracy
and institutions.
To elicit the President's viewpoint on the state of
Slovakia's democracy and evolution as Europe's newest state.
Talking Points
I am honored to have the opportunity to meet with you.
I bring greetings from President Clinton and the American
people.
My purpose in visiting Slovakia and Central Europe is to
express support for political and economic reform.
I look forward to meeting with groups in Slovakia that are
playing an important role in building democratic
institutions.
I would welcome your thoughts on the progress of democracy
in Slovakia and on Slovakia's future ties with the West.
06/18/96 TUE 10:52 FAX 2027364853
EUR/NCE
004
Scenario
Meeting with Mayor of Bratislava and
Walk Through the Old City
Context of Event
You will depart your meeting with the President and proceed to
one of the halls of tapestries within the Primate's Palace for
a ceremonial greeting by the Mayor of Bratislava, Mr. Peter
Kresanek and his wife, Mrs. Maria Kresankova.
You will be accompanied by the mayor, who is an historian by
profession, and his wife, a former high school teacher, as well
as the Mayor's Chief of Staff, Press Secretary, and Head of the
Protocol Department.
After the short greeting, you will proceed to the Mirror Hall,
Primate's Palace, where you will sign the Golden Book of the
City of Bratislava, which will be positioned on the original
historic table that was used by Emperor of France, Napoleon
Bonaparte, while signing the Peace of Pressburg in 1815. Your
signature will be accompanied by a musical fanfare (by
musicians in period costumes) from the Mirror Hall Gallery.
You will depart the Primate's Palace for a short 30-meter walk
through Primate Square to the Old Town Hall. You will proceed
through the historical Old Town Hall Courtyard, where "Musa
Ludens" - an historic baroque family music group - will be
playing, to the main square.
You will see a performance by the children dance folk ensemble
in the main square. A girl will hand over a traditional doll
in a folk costume as a gift.
You will make a brief stop at the statue of Roland on the main
square where the Mayor will present you with a bronze miniature
of the statue, which is the symbolic patron of the city, as
well as a symbol of pride of citizenship for citizens of
Bratislava.
The walking tour of Bratislava's Old Town District will
continue to the Zichy Palace.
Note: In case of substandard weather conditions, this event
will consist only of the Primate's Palace portion and a guided
tour of the Old Town Hall, with the historic family musical
group playing inside the Old Town Hall.
Your Objectives:
To be seen sharing an interest in Bratislava's culture and
history.
To greet Bratislava's citizens, who are impressed with the
accomplishments of you and the President and who identify
with the youth and freshness you and the President brought
to office. Bratislava itself is a city with inhabitants
averaging 34 years of age.
06/18/96 TUE 10:53 FAX 2027364853
EUR/NCE
1
005
-2-
Slovakia/Tour of Old Town
Talking Points:
I am very pleased to have the opportunity of visiting
Bratislava.
I am quite honored to have signed the Golden Book of the
City of Bratislava which was placed on such an historic
table - once used by the Emperor of France, Napoleon
Bonaparte while signing the Peace of Pressburg in 1815.
I have enjoyed seeing the beautiful historical sites of
Bratislava, as well as experiencing some of Slovakia's
finest cultural groups, both musical and dance.
The citizens of Bratislava have much to be proud of.
Bratislava is rich in history, full of culture and its
citizens are strong of heart and spirit.
06/18/96 TUE 10:53 FAX 2027364853
EUR/NCE
5.
006
Slovakia: Meeting with NGO Leaders
Context of the Event
At this event, you will meet with approximately 10 to 15 leaders
from the non-governmental (NGO) sector in Slovakia. The NGO leaders
in attendance represent a good cross section of activities,
promoting worthy social causes such as helping the handicapped,
aged, women, children, environment, etc. The meeting will be a
roundtable discussion, with interpreters present for those who do
not speak English, and will last approximately 30 minutes.
Afterwards, we propose you attend a reception with 40 or so NGO
leaders from all over Slovakia, including USG supported Democracy
Network grant recipients. This reception may also include
participants from previous events with the Slovak judiciary or
academic community (separate scenarios) depending on your preference.
We propose to hold the meeting and the reception at Zichy Palace, an
18th century palace in the heart of Bratislava, used now for
receptions and other cultural events.
Your Objective
O To express U.S. support for the NGO sector as a way to
bolster the morale of this sector and raise public
awareness of the important work this sector does;
O To discuss the work and status of the NGO sector in
Slovakia; and
O To meet with a wide range of NGO leaders in Slovakia.
Talking Points
O I am pleased to have this chance to meet with you today to
hear more about the important work which you are doing to
further the development of a civil society in Slovakia.
O The NGO sector in the U.S. has a long tradition and has
played a critical role in our nation's democratic development.
In the U.S., NGOs have often stepped in to meet societal needs
where the market or the government have not, and have generally done
so in a more cost-effective and efficient way. As de Tocqueville
wrote "wherever at the head of some new undertaking you see the
government in France, or a man of rank in England, in the United
States you will be sure to find an association."
O The legislative challenge currently facing the NGO sector
in Slovakia has received international attention. The NGO
sector has responded to this challenge with remarkable
courage and ingenuity. You should be proud of your efforts.
O The momentous work of developing a civil society in
Slovakia will take time. However, I believe that with the
capable and resourceful leadership you have shown so far,
Slovakia will meet the challenge and become a truly
pluralistic society.
06/18/96 TUE 10:54 FAX 2027364853
EUR/NCE
007
Slovakia: Meeting with Members of Academia
Context of the Event
At this meeting, you will meet 10 to 15 leading members of
academia, including university rectors and members of the Slovak
Academy of Sciences (SAV), to discuss issues of academic freedom.
There are 14 universities in Slovakia and we will invite a
representative number of the rectors from these universities to the
meeting. Additionally, we will invite the top leadership from SAV,
which will include the Chairman, Vice Chairman, Scientific
Secretary, and 3 Deputy Chairmen of the Presidium. The meeting
will be a roundtable discussion, with an interpreter present for
those who do not speak English. We expect this meeting to last
approximately 30 minutes. After this short meeting, we propose
that you attend a reception which will also include participants
from the event with NGO leaders (described in a separate scenario).
We propose to hold this meeting at either Comenius University or
Zichy Palace, either before or after the NGO meeting, or
simultaneously should it be decided that Ambassador Albright will
host this meeting with leaders of academia. Zichy Palace is an
18th century palace in the heart of Bratislava now used for
receptions and other cultural events. Comenius University is also
centrally located in the old town district of Bratislava and has
suitable meeting and reception facilities.
Your Objectives
To emphasize U.S. support for academic freedom, our commitment
to academic independence, non-partisan research, etc;
To exchange ideas on problems of higher education and
democracy in general; and
To meet with leading members of academia.
Talking points
I am pleased to meet with you today to exchange ideas and
experiences on issues of academic freedom and the systems of
higher education and research in our two countries.
All of us gathered here today appreciate the importance of
academic freedom and independent research for the development
of a free and democratic society. The U.S. is committed to an
educational system that is free of ideological control.
I applaud the accomplishments already achieved by Slovakia's
educational institutions during this difficult time of
political and economic transformation. You have made
significant strides toward re-establishing academic freedom in
Slovakia, and reforming curricula and faculties, in spite of
limited financial resources. However, I also know that the
challenges are not all behind you, and that you are currently
engaged in an effort to ensure that future legislation
reinforces, and does not jeopardize, gains achieved to date.
06/18/96 TUE 10:54 FAX 2027364853
EUR/NCE
008
Slovakia: Reception with NGO Leaders, Members of
Academia and/or the Judiciary, and Prominent Women
Context of the Event
We propose this event to be a reception for 70 to 80 leading members
of Slovak society including participants from the events with NGO
leaders, members of academia and/or the judiciary (described in
separate event scenarios). Our contacts tell us that the chance for
these leaders from all over Slovakia to meet with the First Lady would
truly bolster morale and send a positive message of U.S. interest in
Slovakia's democratic development. Approximately 40 NGO leaders from
throughout Slovakia will be invited to attend this reception,
including the 10 to 15 who will participate in the roundtable
discussion for NGO leaders. Among these 40 NGOs will be recipients of
the USG supported Democracy Network Grant Program. The NGO leaders
invited will represent a broad cross section of activities and regions
in Slovakia. The members of academia and/or the judiciary present at
the reception will be those who participate in the separate events for
these areas prior to the reception (depending on your preference as to
which of these events you will host and which Ambassador Albright will
host), plus an expanded list of members of academia and/or the
judiciary, again ensuring broad sectoral and geographical diversity
among the participants. In addition to ensuring that prominent Slovak
women from the NGO sector, academia and/or the judiciary are included
among the invitees for the separate events in these areas, we are also
proposing to include at this reception prominent Slovak women from
media, business, banking, medicine, the arts, etc.
This reception will be held at Zichy Palace after the meetings with
NGO leaders and members of academia and/or the judiciary. Zichy
Palace is an 18th century palace in the heart of Bratislava, now used
for receptions and other cultural events. It will last one hour.
Your Objective
O
To reinforce U.S. interest in and support for Slovakia's
democratic development;
To express U.S. goodwill toward Slovakia and commitment to
developing our relations; and
To meet with leading members of Slovak society;
Talking Points
It is a pleasure to be here in the independent Slovak Republic,
almost seven years after the peaceful fall of the communist
regime, and three years after the peaceful dissolution of the
former Czech and Slovak Federal Republic.
The U.S. commends those present here today for the leadership and
resourcefulness you have shown during these difficult times of
political and economic transformation. I would like to
congratulate you on your accomplishments to date and express the
continued support of the U.S. to helping Slovakia in its
transformation to a market economy and pluralistic democracy.
06/18/96 TUE 10:55 FAX 2027364853
EUR/NCE
1
009
Slovakia: Meeting with Slovak Journalists
Context of the Event:
This event will be an informal meeting between members of the
White House Press Corps and Slovak journalists to discuss
issues of press freedom. We propose this event to take place
at Zichy Palace simultaneously with the First Lady's meeting
with NGO leaders, or during the reception with leaders of
Slovak society. We would arrange for the event to be moderated
by the editor of the Slovak Spectator, the only English
language newspaper in Slovakia. The editor is an American, but
is resident in Slovakia and is familiar with media in both
countries. We expect the event to last one hour. Slovak
journalists from across the political spectrum and from both
print and broadcast media will be invited to participate in the
meeting. Interpreters will be provided for those who do not
speak English, although the majority of Slovak participants
will have English language ability.
Objectives of the Event:
To express U.S. support for freedom of the press;
For members of the White House and Slovak press corps to
meet and exchange ideas on freedom of the press; and
To discuss the media situation in Slovakia in general.
Proposed list of Slovak Journalists to be invited:
Ivan Ceredejev an Ivan Melichercik, Praca (newspaper)
Peter Toth, Michal Havran and Marian Lesko, SME (newspaper)
Lubomir Hudo, Slovenska Republika (newspaper)
Leopold Moravcik, Jan Skoda, Vladimir Tvaroska, Pravda
(newspaper)
Tatiana Repkova, Jan Fulle, and Julius Gembicky, Narodna Obroda
(newspaper)
Robert Culen and Peter Skorna, Novy Cas (newspaper)
Olga Bakova and Jozef Baranek, Slovak Radio
Martin Lengyel, Karol Lovas, Radio Twist
Stefan Hrib, Daniel Butora, Radio Free Europe
Emil Kucera, VTV (private TV station)
Tatjana Lesajova, STV (state TV)
Peter Susko, Markiza (private TV)
Viliam Kiss, freelance journalist
Oliver Brunovsky, Trend (economic newspaper)
Michal Stasz, TASR (state wire service)
Withdrawal/Redaction Marker
Clinton Library
DOCUMENT NO.
SUBJECT/TITLE
DATE
RESTRICTION
AND TYPE
002. paper
re: Slovakia (1 page)
06/18/1996
P1/b(1)
COLLECTION:
Clinton Presidential Records
Speechwriting
Lissa Muscatine
OA/Box Number: 12085
FOLDER TITLE:
HRC - Slovakia [folder 2]
2017-1164-S
rc2759
RESTRICTION CODES
Presidential Records Act - [44 U.S.C. 2204(a)]
Freedom of Information Act - [5 U.S.C. 552(b)]
P1 National Security Classified Information [(a)(1) of the PRA]
b(1) National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIA]
P2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office [(a)(2) of the PRA]
b(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of
P3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(a)(3) of the PRA]
an agency [(b)(2) of the FOIA]
P4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or
b(3) Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA]
financial information [(a)(4) of the PRA]
b(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial
P5 Release would disclose confidential advice between the President
information [(b)(4) of the FOIA]
and his advisors, or between such advisors [a)(5) of the PRA]
b(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
P6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
personal privacy [(b)(6) of the FOIA]
personal privacy [(a)(6) of the PRA]
b(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement
purposes [(b)(7) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed
b(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
of gift.
financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA]
PRM. Personal record misfile defined in accordance with 44 U.S.C.
b(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
2201(3).
concerning wells [(b)(9) of the FOIA]
RR. Document will be reviewed upon request.
U.S.-SLOVAK HISTORICAL REFERENCES
1. Embassy history
The U.S. Embassy in Bratislava was opened as a consulate in the
former Czechoslovakia in March 1948, in a building purchased in
1947 that had housed the German Commercial Bank during WWII.
Claiborne Pell, then a young Foreign Service Officer and later
the long-term Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations
Committee, was sent from Prague to establish a "listening post"
one week after the Communist coup felled the short-lived
democratic government in the country.
The consulate remained open only about six months, and came
under growing pressure from the communist government, who
harrassed Consulate personnel and attempted to intimidate those
who used consulate services. The consulate was forced to close
in May 1950, and the building remained vacant for the next
forty-one years.
Ambassador Shirley Temple Black, with Senator Pell as guest of
honor, reopened the consulate in 1991 in the presence of
several individuals who had suffered harrassment, imprisonment,
and other hardship in the totalitarian past as a result of
their connection with the U.S. government.
The consulate became an Embassy in 1993 at the breakup of
Czechoslovakia and the birth of the new Slovak Republic.
2. OSS Aid to the Slovak National Uprising
The Slovak National Uprising began in August 1944 against the
pro-Nazi regime of Father Jozef Tiso and Nazi Germany forces in
Slovakia. It was part of a national coup to be coordinated
with the Soviet army's arrival in the Slovak territory as it
slowly progressed westward. Led by units of the Slovak army,
the Uprising included participants from the oss and the
anti-German underground in Czechoslovakia.
The Uprising began when two Slovak army divisions revolted,
seized Banska Bystrica, and began radio contact with the
Czechoslovak government-in-exile in London. An OSS liaison
group and an aircrew rescue unit were sent to transmit
intelligence and situation reports and to help evacuate Allied
aircrews lost over Czechoslovakia.
After two months of fighting against 20,000 German troops sent
to quell the uprising, Slovak and OSS resistance collapsed. On
October 26 the Slovaks abandoned Banska Bystrica, and the OSS
team, which then totalled 21 OSS agents, 16 airmen, and an AP
news correspondent, fled across snow-covered mountains toward
Soviet lines.
-2-
The Germans captured most of the agents one-by-one. Two
escaped with the aid of a partisan girl, Maria Gulovich, to
Soviet lines (Gulovich later moved to the U.S. and became a
citizen). Those captured were sent to Mauthausen concentration
camp, tortured for information, and executed as spies on
January 24, 1945. Two other OSS agents were liberated from a
POW camp by Allied forces, and one was freed by the Soviets.
The official OSS assessment of the operation faulted the
resistance and the Allies for incomplete planning. The
expected swift Soviet advance in September 1944 did not
materialize because Soviet forces were stalled at the Dukla
Pass. The British apparently made no effort to support the
insurgents, while OSS air supply efforts were stymied by bad
weather.
SEEESLOK 172 (updated 5/96)
THE SLOVAK REPUBLIC
Background Country Notes
Geography
Area: 49,030 sq. km. (about the size of West Virginia)
Cities: Capital- Bratislava (Pop. 445,100).
Other Cities: Kosice (237,000), Zilina (98,000),
Nitra (90,100), Presov (89,700), Banska Bystrica
(88,000).
Terrain: High mountains to the north, low mountains in the
center, hills to the west, Danube river basin in the south.
Climate: Temperate
People
Nationality: Noun and adjective -- Slovak(s).
Population: (1994 est.) 5,403,505
Annual growth rate: 0.4 percent (1994 est.)
Ethnic groups: Slovaks--86 %, Hungarians--11%, Romanies--1.5%,
Czechs--1%, Ruthenians, Ukranians, Germans, Moravians, Poles.
Religions: Roman Catholic 60%, Protestant, others.
Language: Slovak
Education: Literacy--99%
Health: Life expectancy-- males 69 yrs, females--77 yrs (1994)
Work force (2.5 million) : Industry, construction,
commerce--59%. Government and other services--29%.
Agriculture--12%.
Government
Type: Parliamentary republic
Independence: The Slovak Republic was established January 1,
1993 (Former Czechoslovak Republic established 1918)
Constitution: Signed September 3, 1992
Branches: Executive--president (chief of state),
prime minister (head of government), / cabinet.
Legislative--National Council of the Slovak Republic (150
seats). Judicial -- Supreme Court, Constitutional Court.
Political parties: Movement for a Democratic Slovakia (HZDS)
61 seats; Party of the Democratic Left (SDL) coalition 18
seats; Christian Democratic Movement (KDH) 16 seats; Democratic
Union of Slovakia (DU) 15 seats; Association of Slovak Workers
(ZRS) 12 seats; Coalition of Hungarian Parties (Coexistence
plus Hungarian Christian Democratic Movement (MKDH)) 17 seats;
Slovak National Party (SNS) 9 seats; independent, 2 seats.
Suffrage: Universal at 18 years.
Administrative subdivisions: Three administrative districts
and Bratislava.
Defense: 6.5% of the state budget (1993)
Flag: Three horizontal bands of white (upper), blue (middle),
and red (lower), with heraldic insignia near staff consisting
of double white cross on red field above blue base.
-2-
Economy
GDP (1995) $14.02 billion
GNP: not available
Nominal per capita income (1995 estimated) $2,645.
Natural resources: Antimony, mercury, iron, copper, lead,
zinc, magnesite, limestone, lignite.
Agriculture: Products--milk, eggs, poultry, cattle, hogs,
potatoes, oils, grains, vegetables.
Industry: Types--iron and steel, chemicals, light industry,
food processing, engineering, building materials.
Trade (1995) Exports --$8.6 billion: iron and steel, machinery
and energy equipment, plastics. Imports -- $8.5 billion:
mineral fuels and oils, machinery, audio/video equipment,
vehicles. Trading partners -- Czech Republic, Germany,
Austria, Russia, Hungary, Italy, Ukraine.
Foreign Investment: (12/95) $732.86 million
Exchange rate (1995) 30.7 Slovak crowns (Sk) = US$1
Geography
The Slovak Republic shares borders with Austria (west), Hungary
(south), Ukraine (east), Poland (north), and the Czech Republic
(northwest). Its capital, Bratislava, lies on the Danube
river, approximately 40 miles to the east of Vienna.
Slovakia's primary geographic features are the series of
mountain ranges that run primarily west to east across the
northern portion of the country. They include the Fatra,
Tatra, and Carpathian ranges. The southern part of the country
is characterized by a broad plain that runs west to east from
the Austrian to the Ukrainian borders, and it is the country's
agricultural center.
The country is divided into four administrative regions;
Bratislava (the national capital), western, central, and
eastern Slovakia. Kosice, the second-largest city after
Bratislava, is the capital of the Eastern Slovak Region. Other
large cities include Zilina and Banska Bystrica (central
Slovakia), Nitra (western Slovakia), and Presov (eastern
Slovakia).
The Slovak Republic was the eastern part of the Czech and
Slovak Federal Republic which split peacefully on December 31,
1992. For approximately ten centuries prior to the formation
of the common Czechoslovak state following World War I, the
area was a part of the Hungarian empire. Hot summers,
punctuated by occasional periods of rainfall and long, dry
winters are typical of the moderate continental climate found
in the Slovak Republic. The northern mountain ranges receive
heavy snowfalls in the winter.
-3-
People
The majority of the 5.3 million inhabitants of the Slovak
Republic are Slovak (86%). Other major ethnic groups include
Hungarians (11%), Romanies 1.5%, and Czechs (1%). There are
also Ruthenians, Ukranians, Germans, Moravians, and Poles.
The Slovak constitution guarantees freedom of religion. The
majority of Slovak citizens (60%) practice Roman Catholicism;
the second largest group are Protestants. About three thousand
Jews remain of the pre-WWII population of 135,000.
The official state language is Slovak. There is a 99% literacy
rate in the Slovak Republic. According to official statistics,
life expectancy among Slovak males is 69 years and among Slovak
females 77 years. The Slovak labor force makes up
approximately 43% of the population (2.5 million). Industry,
construction and commerce employ the majority of Slovak workers
(59%). The government or other service sectors employ 29%, and
12% of the work force is engaged in agricultural activities.
Government
Slovakia's highest legislative body is the 150-seat unicameral
National Council of the Slovak Republic. Delegates are elected
from three districts plus the capital, Bratislava, for
four-year terms, on the basis of proportional representation.
The Slovak political scene supports a wide spectrum of
political parties ranging from the successors to the Communist
party, the Party of the Democratic Left (SDL), to the
nationalistic Slovak National Party (SNS) on the right.
Prime Minister Vladimir Meciar's party, Movement for a
Democratic Slovakia (HZDS), returned to power in December 1994
after winning a substantial plurality in the Fall 1994
elections. HZDS has formed a narrowly based coalition
government with two smaller parties: the ultranationalist
Slovak National Party (SNS) and the leftist Association of
Slovak Workers (ZRS). This makes the third government that the
Slovak Republic has had since gaining its independence on
January 1, 1993, following the peaceful dissolution of the
Czech and Slovak Federal Republic (CSFR). The previous
government headed by then Prime Minister Jozef Moravcik had
succeeded the country's initial HZDS-SNS coalition government
led by Meciar after it lost a vote of no-confidence in March of
1994.
Michal Kovac is the current President of the Slovak Republic.
A former active member of HZDS, he declared himself
non-partisan upon assuming his office. Under the Slovak
constitution, the president serves as commander-in-chief of the
armed forces, and enjoys other limited powers, including the
right to dissolve parliament under certain circumstances. The
country's highest court of appeals is the supreme court,
elected by and responsible to the National Council. The
constitutional court, which rules on constitutional issues, is
also appointed by the National Council.
-4- -
Defense
The Slovak Armed Forces have a total of approximately 58,000
personnel, approximately 30% of whom are professionals. As of
November 1993, however, only 60% of career military service
posts were filled. The armed forces are made up of a total of
six divisions, two of which (14th Mechanized Division and the
13th Tank Regiment) are currently at full combat strength. The
Slovak air force and air defense command are subordinated to
the army of the Slovak Republic. The Slovak armed forces are
currently being restructured with a view towards eventual
integration into European security structures.
-5-
History
The Slovak Republic was the eastern part of the Czech and
Slovak Federal Republic. Formed into a common state after
World War I (October 18, 1918), the Czechs, Moravians, and
Slovaks remained united for more than 75 years. On January 1,
1993, the two republics split to form two separate states.
The Slovaks lost their national independence to the
Austro-Hungarian Empire in 1620 at the Battle of White Mountain
and, for the next 300 years, were ruled by Austrian Monarchy.
With the collapse of the monarchy at the end of World War I,
the independent country of Czechoslovakia was formed,
encouraged by, among others, U.S. President Woodrow Wilson.
Despite cultural differences, the Slovaks shared with Czech
similar aspirations for independence from the Hapsburg state
and voluntarily united with the Czech. The Slovaks were not at
the same level of economic and technological development as the
Czechs, but the freedom and opportunity found in Czechoslovakia
enabled them to make strides toward overcoming these
inequalities. However, the gap never was fully bridged, and
the discrepancy played a continuing role throughout the 75
years of the union.
Although Czechoslovakia was the only East European country
to remain a parliamentary democracy from 1918 to 1938, it was
plagued with minority problems, the most important concerning
the country's large German population. Constituting more than
22% of the interwar state's population and largely concentrated
in the Bohemian and Moravian border regions (the Sudetenland),
members of this minority supported in large part by Nazi
Germany undermined the new Czechoslovak state. Internal and
external pressures culminated in September 1938, when, at
Munich, France, and the United Kingdom yielded to Nazi
pressures and agree to force Czechoslovakia to cede the
Sudetenland to Germany.
Fulfilling Hitler's aggressive designs on all of
Czechoslovakia, Germany invaded what remained of Bohemia and
Moravia in March 1939, establishing a German "protectorate."
By this time, Slovakia had already declared independence and
had become a puppet state of the Germans.
At the close of World War II, Soviet troops overran all of
Slovakia, Moravia, and much of Bohemia, including Prague. In
May 1945, U.S. forces liberated the city of Plzen and most of
western Bohemia. A civilian uprising against the German
garrison took place in Prague in May 1945. Following Germany's
surrender, some 2.9 million ethnic Germans were expelled from
Czechoslovakia with Allied approval.
Reunited after the war, the Czechs and Slovaks set federal
and national elections for the spring of 1946. The democratic
elements, led by President Eduard Benes, hoped the Soviet Union
would allow Czechoslovakia the freedom to choose its own form
of government and aspired to a Czechoslovakia that would act as
-6-
a bridge between East and West. The Czechoslovak communist
party, which won 38% of the vote, held most of the key
positions in the government and gradually managed to neutralize
or silence the anti-communist forces. Although the
communist-led government initially intended to participate in
the Marshall Plan, it was forced by Moscow to back out. Under
the cover of superficial legality, the communist party seized
power in February 1948.
Reunited after the war, the Czechs and Slovaks set federal
and national elections for the spring of 1946. The democratic
elements, led by President Eduard Benes, hoped the Soviet Union
would allow Czechoslovakia the freedom to choose its own form
of government and aspired to a Czechoslovakia that would act as
a bridge between East and West. The Czechoslovak communist
party, which won 38% of the vote, held most of the key
positions in the government and gradually managed to neutralize
or silence the anti-communist forces. Although the
communist-led government initially intended to participate in
the Marshall Plan, it was forced by Moscow to back out. Under
the cover of superficial legality, the communist party seized
power in February 1948.
After extensive purges modeled on the Stalinist pattern in
other East European states, the communist party tried 14 of its
former leaders in November 1952 and sentenced 11 to death. For
more than a decade thereafter, the Czechoslovak communist
political structure was characterized by the orthodoxy of the
leadership of party chief Antonin Novotny.
The 1968 Soviet Invasion
The communist leadership allowed token reforms in the early
1960s, but discontent arose within the ranks of the communist
party central committee, stemming from dissatisfaction with the
slow pace of the economic reforms, resistance to cultural
liberalization, and the desire of the Slovaks within the
leadership for greater autonomy for their republic. This
discontent expressed itself with the removal of Novotny from
party leadership in January 1968 and from the presidency in
March. He was replaced as party leader by a Slovak, Alexander
Dubcek.
After January 1968, the Dubcek leadership took practical
steps toward political, social, and economic reforms. In
addition, it called for politico-military changes in the
Soviet-dominated Warsaw Pact and Council for Mutual Economic
Assistance. The leadership affirmed its loyalty to socialism
and the Warsaw Pact but also expressed the desire to improve
relations with all countries of the world regardless of their
social systems.
-7-
A program adopted in April 1968 set guidelines for a
modern, humanistic socialist democracy that would guarantee,
among other things, freedom of religion, press, assembly,
speech, and travel; a program that, in Dubcek's words, would
give socialism "a human face." After 20 years of little
public participation, the population gradually started to take
interest in the government, and Dubcek became a truly popular
national figure.
The internal reforms and foreign policy statements of the
Dubcek leadership created great concern among some other Warsaw
Pact governments. On the night of August 20, 1968, Soviet,
Hungarian, Bulgarian, East German, and Polish troops invaded
and occupied Czechoslovakia. The Czechoslovak Government
immediately declared that the troops had not been invited into
the country and that their invasion was a violation of
socialist principles, international law, and the UN Charter.
The principal Czechoslovak reformers were forcibly and
secretly taken to the Soviet Union. Under obvious Soviet
duress, they were compelled to sign a treaty that provided for
the "temporary stationing" of an unspecified number of Soviet
troops in Czechoslovakia.
Dubcek was removed as party First Secretary on April 17,
1969, and replaced by another Slovak, Gustav Husak. Later,
Dubcek and many of his allies within the party were stripped of
their party positions in a purge that lasted until 1971 and
reduced party membership by almost one-third.
The 1970s and 1980s became known as the period of
"normalization," in which the apologists for the 1968 Soviet
invasion prevented, as best they could, any opposition to their
conservative regime. Political, social, and economic life
stagnated. The population, cowed by the "normalization," was
quiet.
At the time of the communist takeover, Czechoslovakia had a
balanced economy and one of the higher levels of
industrialization on the continent. In 1948, however, the
government began to stress heavy industry over agricultural and
consumer goods and services. Many basic industries and foreign
trade, as well as domestic wholesale trade, had been
nationalized before the Communists took power. Nationalization
of most of the retail trade was completed in 1950-51.
Heavy industry received major economic support during the
1950s, but waste and inefficient use of industrial resources
resulted from central planning. Although the labor force was
traditionally skilled and efficient, inadequate incentives for
labor and management contributed to high labor turnover, low
productivity, and poor product quality. Economic failures
reached a critical stage in the 1960s, after which various
reform measures were sought, with no satisfactory results.
-8-
Hope for wide-ranging economic reform came with Alexander
Dubcek's rise in January 1968. Despite renewed efforts,
however, Czechoslovakia could not come to grips with
inflationary forces, much less begin the immense task of
correcting the economy's basic problems.
The economy saw growth during the 1970s but then stagnated
between 1978-82. Attempts at revitalizing it in the 1980s with
management and worker incentive programs were largely
unsuccessful. The economy grew after 1982, achieving an annual
average output growth of more than 3% between 1983-85. Imports
from the West were curtailed, exports boosted, and hard
currency debt reduced substantially. New investment was made
in the electronic, chemical, and pharmaceutical sectors, which
were industry leaders in Eastern Europe in the mid 1980s.
The Velvet Revolution
The roots of the 1989 Civic Forum movement that came to
power during the "Velvet Revolution" lie in human rights
activism. On January 1, 1977, more than 250 human rights
activists signed a manifesto called the Charter 77, which
criticized the government for failing to implement human rights
provisions of documents it had signed, including the state's
own constitution; international covenants on political, civil,
economic, social, and cultural rights; and the Final Act of the
Conference for Security and Cooperation in Europe. Although
not organized in any real sense, the signatories of Charter 77
constituted a citizens' initiative aimed at inducing the
Czechoslovak Government to observe formal obligations to
respect the human rights of their citizens.
In the days after November 17, 1989, Charter 77 and other
groups united to become the Civic Forum, an umbrella group
championing bureaucratic reform and civil liberties. Its
leader was the dissident playwright Vaclav Havel.
Intentionally eschewing the label "party," a word given a
negative connotation during the previous regime, Civic Forum
quickly gained the support of millions of Czechs, as did its
Slovak counterpart, Public Against Violence.
Faced with an overwhelming popular repudiation, the
Communist Party all but collapsed. Its leaders, Husak and
party chief Milos Jakes, resigned in December 1989, and Havel
was elected President of Czechoslovakia on December 29.
The astonishing quickness of these events was in part due
to the unpopularity of the communist regime and changes in the
policies of its Soviet guarantor as well as to the rapid,
effective organization of these public initiatives into a
viable opposition.
A coalition government, in which the communist party had a
minority of ministerial positions, was formed in December
1989. The first free elections in Czechoslovakia since 1948
took place in June 1990 without incident and with more than 95%
of the population voting. As anticipated, Civil Forum and
Public Against Violence won landslide victories in their
-9-
respective republics and gained a comfortable majority in the
federal parliament. The parliament undertook substantial steps
toward securing the democratic evolution of Czechoslovakia. It
successfully moved toward fair local elections in November
1990, ensuring fundamental change on the county and town level.
Civic Forum found, however, that although it had
successfully completed its primary objective-the overthrow of
the communist regime-it was ineffectual as a government party.
The demise of Civic Forum was viewed by most as necessary and
inevitable.
By the end of 1990, unofficial parliamentary "clubs" had
evolved with distinct political agendas. These solidified into
the parties that make up the Czech political landscape. Mot
influential is the Civic Democratic Party, headed by Prime
Minister and former Federal Minister of Finance Vaclav Klaus.
Other notable parties that came into being after the split were
the Civic Movement and Civic Democratic Alliance.
By 1992, Slovak calls for greater autonomy effectively
blocked the daily functioning of the federal government. In
the election of June 1992, Klaus's Civic Democratic Party won
handily in the Czech lands on a platform of economic reform.
Vladimir Meciar's Movement for a Democratic Slovakia emerged as
the leading party in Slovakia, basing its appeal on fairness to
Slovak demands for autonomy. Federalists, like Havel, were
unable to contain the trend toward the split. In July 1992,
President Havel resigned. In the latter half of 1992, Klaus
and Meciar hammered out an agreement that the two republics
would go their separate ways by the end of the year.
Members of the federal parliament, divided along national
lines, barely cooperated enough to pass the law officially
separating the two nations. The law was passed on December 27,
1992. On January 1, 1993, the Czech Republic and the Republic
of Slovakia were simultaneously and peacefully founded.
Relationships between the two states, despite occasional
disputes about the division of federal property and governing
of the border have been as peaceful as Prime Ministers Klaus
and Meciar promised. Both states attained immediate
recognition from the U.S. and their European neighbors.
THE SLOVAK REPUBLIC
Political Developments:
Prime Minister Vladimir Meciar's party, Movement for a
Democratic Slovakia (HZDS), returned to power in December 1994
after winning a substantial plurality. HZDS governs in
coalition with two smaller parties: the ultranationalist
Slovak National Party (SNS) and the leftist Association of
Slovak Workers (ZRS). This makes the third government that the
Slovak Republic has had since gaining its independence on
January 1, 1993, following the peaceful dissolution of the
Czech and Slovak Federal Republic (CSFR). The previous
government, headed by then Prime Minister Jozef Moravcik,
succeeded the country's first government, also led by Meciar,
after it lost a vote of no-confidence in March of 1994.
Slovakia is a functioning parliamentary democracy whose
constitution guarantees fundamental rights recognized under
OSCE principles. Its parliament and government were elected in
free and fair multi-party elections.
The right to associate freely and form political parties and
movements is protected by law and was respected in practice in
1995. Freedom of religious belief and faith are guaranteed by
the Constitution and by law. Citizens who associate on the
basis of a particular religious persuasion may freely proclaim
and practice their beliefs.
The constitution mandates independent courts. The 10-judge
Constitutional Court in Kosice reviews the constitutionality of
laws and the decisions of national and local government bodies.
The Supreme Court reviews the decisions of lower courts.
Despite constitutional guarantees protecting fundamental human
rights and civil liberties, there were disturbing allegations
of human rights abuse by civil authorities in 1995. In August,
the President's son was tortured during the course of a violent
abduction to Austria in which Slovak Intelligence Service (SIS)
personnel are alleged to be implicated. SIS initially refused
to permit its personnel to be questioned and has accused police
investigators of wrongdoing. The lead police investigator and
key supervisory personnel were fired. In September an
opposition politician was beaten at his home after two days of
surveillance. In both cases government representatives sought
to discredit the victims' reports of their injuries. The
"lustration" law of the former CSFR, barring from high public
office persons who previously collaborated with the
Communist-era secret police, is technically still in effect in
Slovakia, though not enforced.
The constitution prohibits censorship and guarantees freedom of
information and expression. Though dependent on state-owned
printing and distribution companies, the print media are free
and uncensored, and newspapers and magazines regularly publish
a wide range of opinions and news articles.
The state-owned electronic media have become increasingly
politicized since the Parliament named new television and radio
councils and hired new directors in November 1994. The
diversity of views, political coverage, and objectivity of news
and documentary programming on Slovak television dropped
sharply. Further, the government recently enacted legislation
for the Protection of the State, which would penalize or
imprison those who intentionally spread false information
abroad that is damaging to the interests of the republic. The
"interests of the republic" are not defined. Although this law
is being reconsidered in Parliament, these actions have caused
some journalists and citizens to fear speaking out publicly.
Though most Slovaks and ethnic Hungarians coexist peacefully, a
political debate continues over the legal status of the
country's large (estimated 560,000) ethnic Hungarian minority.
The Constitution provides minorities with the right to develop
their own culture, receive information and education in their
mother tongue, and participate in decision making in matters
affecting them. In March 1996, the Parliament ratified a
bilateral treaty with Hungary, which deals extensively with
treatment of ethnic minorities. Hungary and Slovakia are now
completing the final details for the treaty to enter into
force. Slovakia has also ratified the Council of Europe
framework Convention on Ethnic Minorities.
There are occasional outbreaks of anti-Hungarian feeling in
Slovakia, mostly in areas where the two ethnic groups do not
coexist. The government continued to provide funding for
cultural, educational, broadcasting, and publishing activities
for the major ethnic minorities, but at greatly reduced
levels. Ethnic Hungarians worry about the Ministry of
Education's "alternative education" plan, which seeks to
introduce the use of the Slovak language for certain subjects
in schools where Hungarian is the language of instruction.
Supporters of the program note that participation is
voluntary. Ethnic Hungarians also criticize the Meciar
government's plans to redistrict Slovakia, saying it could
dilute their vote by incorporating their communities into
overwhelmingly ethnic Slovak districts.
Ethnic Hungarians have also expressed great concern over the
recently approved state language law. They charge the law
violates constitutional minority language rights as well as the
Council of Europe's Convention on Minority Rights. Slovak
government leaders have denied these accusations, declaring
publicly that minority rights will not change as a result of
the law. The government has also promised to pass companion
legislation on minority languages in 1996. The final form of
the minoritiy language law, as well as the administrative
regulations being developed to implement the language law, will
in large part determine the actual impact this legislation will
have on the lives of ethnic minorities in Slovakia.
The Romanies, whose numbers are estimated at between 100,000
and 400,000, suffer disproportionately from poverty, crime and
disease. Credible reports by human rights monitors indicated
Roma continue to suffer from discrimination in employment,
housing, and administration of state services. Skinhead
violence against Roma is a serious and growing problem, and
human rights monitors report police remain reluctant to take
action. Prime Minister Meciar has declared that the government
would devote special attention to the economic, social and
cultural advancement of the Romanies, and established a
government plenipotentiary to deal with problems of
"disadvantaged citizens.
SLOVAKIA
Economic Developments
The Slovak economy maintained its strong recovery in 1995
driven largely by increased domestic consumption and, to a
lesser extent, a rise in domestic investment. This recovery
follows several years of deep recession, climaxing in a
4.1-percent decline in real GDP in 1993. Slovakia's dramatic
turnaround began in 1994, when it posted a 4.8 percent rise in
real GDP. This upward trend continues, with real GDP up 7.4
percent in 1995 compared with a year earlier. Industrial
production was up 5.5 percent in the first half of 1995
compared to the same period in 1994. Tight monetary and fiscal
policy led to a sharp reduction both in the annual inflation
rate, which fell from 14 percent in 1994 to 7.2 percent in
1995, and in the fiscal deficit, down from 7.6 percent of GDP
in 1993 to 1.9 percent in 1995. Unemployment, while still
high, declined gradually through 1994 and 1995, and stood at
13.1 percent in 1995.
In December 1994, Prime Minister Vladimir Meciar returned
to power after a hiatus beginning in March 1994 when his
previous government received a vote of no confidence. During
the interim period (March-December), a coalition led by then
Prime Minister Jozef Moravcik actively pursued economic reform
and privatization. In July 1994, this government negotiated
with the IMF both a new 20-month $168 million Standby
Arrangement and the terms for disbursement of the second
tranche of the $180 million Systemic Transformation Facility
approved in 1993. In September 1994, representatives from the
Group-of-24 countries met in Bratislava and declared their
willingness to provide up to $245 million of balance of
payments support to Slovakia.
The new Meciar Government has kept Slovakia's conservative
fiscal and monetary policies in place. In mid-1995, Slovakia
ceased to draw on its IMF stand-by arrangement (with the
concurrence of the IMF), but maintained a regular policy
dialogue with the IMF. In June 1995, the government cancelled
earlier plans for a mass privatization voucher-based program to
institute a less transparent approach offering state
enterprises for direct sale to current management, employees,
and other bidders. The government has retained a decisive
voice in the privatization of key enterprises, and has followed
a policy of favoring domestic over foreign investors during
this phase of privatization.
As a result, Slovakia's record on privatization is mixed.
Almost all small state-owned enterprises in Slovakia have been
privatized. At the same time, the government excepted a large
number of the most lucrative Slovak state enterprises in the
energy, telecommunications, pharmaceuticals, and transportation
sectors from privatization for the foreseeable future on
strategic grounds. However, the GOS has committed itself to
completing privatization of all other firms, including the vast
majority of large state enterprises, by mid-1996. So far, 700
large enterprises, valued at $5.8 billion, have been
privatized; about 150 large enterprises, valued at about $2.0
billion, remain for privatization. This government has
-2-
accelerated the pace of the privatization process. Since
February 1995, the National Property Fund has approved the sale
of all or part of more than 342 state enterprises valued at
approximately $1.78 billion.
Foreign investors have not flocked to Slovakia. Through
1995, Slovakia had received only $732 million in total direct
foreign investment. Austria and Germany are the largest
investors. U.S. investment, at more than $90 million, ranks
fourth among foreign investors.
Despite the low level of foreign investment and
unpredictable nature of privatization, the grass roots private
sector in Slovakia has grown rapidly. In 1995, the private
sector generated an estimated 65 percent of GDP, compared with
2 percent in 1989, and employed nearly half of the industrial
workforce. By the end of 1996, the private sector is expected
to generate over 70 percent of Slovakia's GDP.
Slovakia's export sector has been a driving force behind
the country's economic recovery and supports the
investment-powered growth in capital goods imports. Slovakia
reported a $97.4 million trade surplus during the first nine
months of 1995, compared to a surplus of $130 million for 1994
as a whole. Exports increased by 22 percent from the first
nine months of 1994, while imports rose 21.3 percent. In March
1994, the Moravcik Government imposed a ten percent import
surcharge to help correct its balance of payments situation,
which the current Government has continued in 1995. The
government has made a commitment to the World Trade
Organization (WTO) that it will eliminate the surcharge by
mid-1996. A May 1995 five percent devaluation of the Slovak
crown against the Czech crown also contributed to the large
$240 million trade surplus with the Czech Republic in the first
half of 1995. The Czech Republic purchases nearly 35 percent
of Slovakia's exports and supplies 28 percent of its imports.
The United States accounts for about two percent of total
trade with Slovakia. The Slovak Republic has Most Favored
Nation status and receives duty-free (GSP) benefits for many of
its exports.
Slovakia enjoys a healthy foreign exchange position. It
has little foreign debt, $5.2 billion in 1995, and has built up
its reserves to $5.1 billion in 1995 compared with $400 million
in 1993.
The government has applied for membership in the OECD and
the EU. Slovakia signed an Association Agreement with the EU
in October 1993, which went into effect in February 1995. The
agreement provides for the phased-in creation of a free trade
arrangement concerning most industrial goods. In 1994,
Slovakia, Hungary, the Czech Republic and Poland agreed to
speed up implementation of their 1992 Central European Free
Trade Agreement (CEFTA; now including Slovenia). During the
first half of 1995, Slovakia sent over 45 percent of its
exports to its CEFTA partners and nearly 30 percent of its
exports to the EU.
U.S. Department of State
Bureau of Consular Affairs
Washington, DC 20520
For recorded travel information, call 202-647-5225.
C
$
To access the Consular Affairs Bulletin Board, call 202-647-9225.
For information by fax, call 202-647-3000 from your fax machine.
Consular Information Sheet
Slovak Republic
November 9, 1995
Country Description: The Slovak Republic is a moderately developed European nation
undergoing profound economic and political changes. Tourist facilities are not as developed as
those found in western Europe and many of the goods and services taken for granted in other
European countries are not yet available.
Entry Requirements: Travelers to the Slovak Republic can obtain entry information at the
Embassy of the Slovak Republic at 2201 Wisconsin Avenue N.W., Suite 380, Washington. DC
20007. telephone (202) 965-5160/1.
Medical Facilities: Medical facilities are available. However only a limited number of doctors
are English speakers. Doctors and hospitals expect cash payment for health services unless the
patient can present an insurance number from the Slovak National Insurance Company. U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States. Travelers have found that in
some cases. supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage has proven to be
useful. Further information on health matters can be obtained from the Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention's international travelers hotline at (404) 332-4559.
Information on Crime: The Slovak Republic has a low rate of violent crime. However,
particularly in the summer. there has been an increase in street crime such as pickpocketing in
shopping centers. in the vicinity of major hotels where foreigners stay. near major tourist sites,
and on night trains, especially Prague-Bratislava-Budapest or Budapest-Warsaw. The loss or
theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police and the nearest
U.S. embassy or consulate. The Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" is
available from the Superintendent of Documents. U.S. Government Printing Office.
Washington. DC 20402. It provides useful information on safeguarding valuables and protecting
personal security while traveling abroad.
Drug Penalties: U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in which they are traveling.
Penalties for possession. use and dealing in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders can
expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration and Embassy Location: U.S. citizens may register at the Consular Section of the
U.S. Embassy in Bratislava and obtain updated information on travel and security in the
Slovak Republic. The U.S. Embassy in Bratislava is located at Hviezdoslavovo Namestie 4.
telephone (42-7) 330-861.
No. 95-142
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated May. 11. 1994 to update information on
crime.
FIRST LADY HILLARY RODHAM CLINTON
STATEMENT UPON DEPARTURE FROM SLOVAKIA
JULY 6, 1996
I am glad to have had this chance to visit Bratislava, a city that has played an important
role in European history, and to have met with people striving to make a difference in this period
of historical opportunity.
During my brief stay, many people told me of Slovakia's accomplishments and of the
challenges still confronting the nation as it seeks to rejoin the democratic family of the West.
Democracy depends on the full participation of all segments of society, and I was gratified to
meet with so many Slovak citizens and representatives of non-governmental organizations who
are embracing the principles of democracy and trying to integrate them into the life of their
country. I also met with President Kovacs and Prime Minister Meciar, who were generous in
sharing their views about Slovakia's aspirations for progress.
To the government and people of Slovakia, I offer thanks for the hospitality and warmth
extended to me today.
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