The controversial bill, proposed by Prime Minister Robert Fico's coalition government, aims to enhance transparency in NGO financing and operations but has sparked significant criticism for its potential to suppress civil society.

The citizens' initiative 'Peace of Ukraine,' which organized the largest protest, expressed concern that Slovakia is drifting away from civilized European standards under Fico's leadership.

The ongoing protests reflect widespread discontent with Fico's policies, as citizens rally against perceived threats to democracy and civil liberties.

However, critics, including the non-profit organization Via Iuris, argue that the bill categorizes NGOs as lobbyists without a clear definition of lobbying, violating Slovakia's constitution and EU regulations.

Opponents of the legislation liken it to authoritarian practices seen in Russia, suggesting it is designed to intimidate and control dissenting voices.

During the demonstrations, protesters chanted slogans like "No to the Russian law" and "We won't give up freedom," indicating strong public sentiment against the government's direction.

Specifically, the law requires NGOs to disclose their financing sources and the names of larger donors, which the government claims is a necessary step towards transparency in lobbying activities.

These concerns have fueled widespread protests, with thousands of Slovaks demonstrating in Bratislava on April 3, 2025, against the draft legislation perceived as harmful to NGOs.

As protests continue, additional demonstrations are scheduled across approximately thirty locations in Slovakia and abroad on April 4, 2025.

His government has faced accusations of steering Slovakia towards an authoritarian regime, drawing comparisons to Hungary's political climate under Viktor Orbán.

The protests are part of a broader wave of dissent that began in December 2024, triggered by Fico's pro-Russian policies and his recent visit to Moscow for talks with President Vladimir Putin.

Fico's leadership has raised alarms about a potential shift towards autocracy, with remarks suggesting Slovakia might reconsider its membership in the EU and NATO.