Members of the Hungarian-speaking community in Slovakia consider that a new amendment to the Slovak State Language Act further discriminate them and their culture. The amendment was passed by the National Council of the Slovak Republic on June 30th. The amendment will impose fines over a bad use of the Slovak language from September and will enhance the position of that language by requiring it in all non-private communications.

The Party of the Hungarian Coalition (largest Magyar party in Slovakia) has reacted against the new amendment, which was approved by 76 out of 150 Slovak MPs. The party considers that the change will make it difficult for national minorities to protect their own languages. According to the amendment, minority languages will continue to have their place in health and social services, but in public events, the use of Slovak will be mandatory -although using also another language will be allowed.

Fines for breaking these rules will amount up to 5.000 euros. According to the 2001 census, 10,7% of the Slovak population uses Hungarian as mother tongue. Almost 2% use Roma, followed by Ruthenian (1%) and Czech (0,9%).

Further information:

• Eurolang: Controversial amendment of Slovak language law passed
• The Slovak Spectator: Parliament adopts bill fining poor Slovak linguists
• Radio Slovakia International: Slovak Foreign Minister criticizes Budapest´s approach to Slovak language law