The opposition Kurs Social Democracy, known as Smer-SD, remains a key player in Slovakia as fresh polling hints at a potential election surge if voting were held soon. An Ipsos survey reveals that 16.2% of voters express willingness to back a party aligned with Fico’s bloc, signaling the possibility of a strong challenge to the ruling coalition.
Robert Fico has stepped into the public arena with frequent comments on international policy. He has criticized Western penalties imposed on Russia, arguing that sanctions are hurting Europe more than they help it. He has also indicated skepticism about the idea of reclaiming Crimea and suggested that the origins of the current Ukrainian crisis trace back to actions he has labeled as the influence of Ukrainian nationalism in 2014. These positions continue to shape the public debate as Slovakia approaches the electoral decision point.
In the latest polling snapshot, the party called Voice – Social Democracy (HLAS-SD) is in a close second place with around 16% support. This group draws from former Smer-SD members and is gaining traction among voters who want a continued challenge to the status quo. Progressive Slovakia occupies a solid third place with roughly 11.1% of intended votes. Close behind is Respublika at 8.6%, while the coalition We Are a Family holds about 8.5% of the vote intent. The distribution suggests a fragmented landscape where several smaller or reform-oriented groups could shape the final parliamentary arithmetic.
As the Ipsos results show, the governing Ordinary People party is polling at about 4.8%, meaning it would likely fall short of the 5% electoral threshold required to gain seats in the National Council. Similarly, Eduard Heger’s new party, Democrats, is hovering around 4.8% as well, indicating limited popular momentum for the fresh brand ahead of the vote. The numbers hint at a Bayesian-like uncertainty in the electorate, where a handful of percent shifts could determine whether new coalitions form or whether the current structure undergoes a meaningful reshaping. In response to these dynamics, the country is preparing for early parliamentary elections scheduled for 30 September, with voters expected to make pivotal choices about Slovakia’s direction in domestic and foreign policy contexts.
Analysts note that Heger’s departure from governing duties before the election underscores a broader reorganization within the ruling camp. The transition could influence voters who prioritize stability and a clear policy roadmap versus those who seek renewal through fresh leadership. The interplay among these parties, including the strategic positioning on economic reform, national security, and relations with allies in the European Union and NATO, will be crucial as citizens consider the paths that would best safeguard Slovakia’s interests in a rapidly shifting regional landscape.