Hundreds of theaters, galleries, and cultural organizations in Slovakia have signaled their intent to strike against what they describe as oppressive measures by the government, sparking a heated battle over the country’s creative freedom. The Culture Ministry, led by Martina Simkovicova from the far-right, pro-Russian SNS party, has come under fire for policies that threaten the autonomy of cultural institutions. Among the most contentious issues is the Ministry’s stance against Western liberal values, with significant cuts in funding for LGBTQ educational projects.
Simkovicova, backed by Prime Minister Robert Fico, has dismissed leadership within Slovakia’s National Gallery and National Theatre, citing management failures. However, critics argue that these moves are part of a broader crackdown on liberal-progressive ideas. The threat of a strike, led by the “Open Culture” movement, marks the first stage of what could become a broader clash over cultural and political ideology in Slovakia. LGBTQ groups have raised alarm over the Ministry’s plans to ban the display of rainbow flags on public buildings and prohibit what it terms “propaganda” of non-traditional sexual orientations.
The cultural sector, representing over 1,900 individuals and 340 organizations, accuses the Ministry of intimidation and workplace harassment, asserting that anyone who resists their ideological line faces threats. The potential strike would highlight the growing tension in Slovak society between proponents of traditional values and those advocating for progressive social change. This polarization is particularly felt in the LGBTQ community, which has been disproportionately affected by the Ministry’s restrictive measures, reinforcing fears about the erosion of creative freedom and the marginalization of minority voices.
Despite the backlash, the Culture Ministry insists that its leadership holds a democratic mandate. Nevertheless, the looming strike could be a significant turning point in Slovakia’s ongoing cultural and ideological war, with LGBTQ advocates viewing it as part of a wider trend of conservative governments across Europe targeting their rights and visibility.
