Czechs and Slovaks rally for democracy
Protesters warn that democratic norms face renewed threats
Thousands gathered in the Czech Republic and Slovakia to mark the Velvet Revolution anniversary, using the commemoration to warn that democratic norms face renewed threats. In Bratislava and other Slovak cities, mass rallies organized by opposition parties and civic groups targeted Prime Minister Robert Fico’s government, accusing it of democratic backsliding, closer ties to Russia and erosion of institutional checks. Protesters criticized Fico’s pro-Russian stance on the war in Ukraine, his trips to meet President Vladimir Putin, the dissolution of a special office investigating corruption and serious crime, increased state influence over public media, and rhetoric suggesting the European Union could collapse—comments critics say introduce the idea of leaving the EU into public debate even though he has not proposed quitting.
In the Czech Republic, crowds gathered in Prague along Národní třída—the site of the 1989 student protests—to honor the original pro-democracy movement while expressing concern about contemporary political shifts. Demonstrators carried national and EU flags and accused emerging coalition partners of cozying up to far-right groups, warning that weakening support for Ukraine or distancing the country from Western alliances could undermine democratic gains won after 1989. Speakers and civic leaders in both countries framed the anniversary as an active civic duty rather than a mere symbolic ritual, calling for defense of media freedom, judicial independence and anti-corruption institutions.
Analysts said the anniversary took on a distinctly political tone this year, reflecting broader regional anxieties about misinformation, polarization and leaders perceived to be undermining democratic safeguards. Despite heightened tensions and emotionally charged rhetoric—especially in Slovakia—the demonstrations remained peaceful, highlighting the resilience of civil society and public activism in both nations. Organizers signaled continued vigilance, portraying the protests as a reminder that the transparency, rule of law and civic participation secured by the Velvet Revolution require ongoing protection.
