Slovakia’s main trade union federation has proposed its own plan for repairing public finances, warning the government against repeating austerity policies that disproportionately affect workers and low-income groups.
In a response to the Labour Minister’s call for input from social partners, the Confederation of Trade Unions of the Slovak Republic (KOZ SR) submitted a set of proposals that aimed to make the fiscal consolidation process more equitable.
The union calls for better tax collection, higher property and environmental taxes, and a more progressive tax system. On the spending side, it advocates more efficient state management while protecting ordinary households and collective bargaining.
KOZ SR criticised recent cost-cutting measures for lacking proper dialogue and for placing too much pressure on vulnerable groups. It is demanding a clear timeline and formal involvement of unions in shaping future reforms.
The federation stressed that fiscal recovery must be part of a broader, long-term strategy – including tax reform, decentralisation and industrial policy – and not rely on short-term or one-sided decisions.
It emphasised that the process must be based on agreement among social partners and avoid deepening social inequality. (The Slovak Spectator)