# Slovakia

> country in Central Europe

**Wikidata**: [Q214](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q214)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Slovakia)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/slovakia

## Summary
Slovakia is a sovereign state and country located in Central Europe, with a population of approximately 5.4 million people as of 2025. It is known for its rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and vibrant cultural heritage, particularly in its capital, Bratislava. Slovakia joined the European Union in 2004 and has since become an important member of the continent's political and economic landscape.

## Key Facts
- **Area**: 49,035 square kilometers (as of 2025).
- **Capital**: Bratislava.
- **Official Name**: Slovenská republika (Slovak Republic).
- **Currency**: Euro (since 2009).
- **Population**: 5,409,407 (as of 2025).
- **Official Language**: Slovak.
- **Member of**: European Union (since 2004), NATO (since 2004), and the United Nations.
- **Flag**: Adopted on September 3, 1992.
- **Anthem**: "Nad Tatrou sa blýska" (Over the Tatra Mountains It Flashes).
- **Highest Point**: Gerlachovský štít (2,654 meters).
- **Lowest Point**: Bodrog (94 meters).
- **Time Zone**: Central European Time (UTC+01:00) and Central European Summer Time (UTC+02:00).
- **Driving Side**: Right.
- **ISO Codes**: SK (alpha-2), SVK (alpha-3), 703 (numeric).
- **Human Development Index**: 0.848 (2021).
- **Gini Coefficient**: 23.2 (2019).
- **Life Expectancy**: 77 years (2022).
- **Total Fertility Rate**: 1.6 (2024).
- **Unemployment Rate**: 6.143% (2022).
- **Suicide Rate**: 9.3 per 100,000 (2019).

## FAQs
- **What is the capital of Slovakia?** The capital of Slovakia is Bratislava, a city known for its historic architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and as the political and economic center of the country.
- **When did Slovakia join the European Union?** Slovakia became a member of the European Union on May 1, 2004.
- **What is the official language of Slovakia?** The official language of Slovakia is Slovak.
- **What is the currency of Slovakia?** The currency of Slovakia is the euro, which has been in use since January 1, 2009.
- **What is the highest point in Slovakia?** The highest point in Slovakia is Gerlachovský štít, which stands at 2,654 meters above sea level.
- **What is the lowest point in Slovakia?** The lowest point in Slovakia is Bodrog, located at 94 meters above sea level.
- **What is the population of Slovakia?** As of 2025, the population of Slovakia is approximately 5.4 million people.
- **What are the major rivers in Slovakia?** Major rivers in Slovakia include the Danube, Váh, Hron, and Ipeľ.
- **What is the national anthem of Slovakia?** The national anthem of Slovakia is "Nad Tatrou sa blýska" (Over the Tatra Mountains It Flashes).
- **What is the time zone of Slovakia?** Slovakia observes Central European Time (UTC+01:00) and Central European Summer Time (UTC+02:00).

## Why It Matters
Slovakia plays a significant role in Central Europe, serving as a key member of the European Union and NATO. Its strategic location and rich cultural heritage make it an important player in the region's political and economic landscape. The country's natural beauty, including its mountains, rivers, and forests, attracts tourists and supports various industries. Slovakia's history, marked by its transition from a communist state to a democratic republic, reflects the broader European experience of post-war reconstruction and political transformation. The country's strong emphasis on education and innovation has contributed to its economic growth and development. Additionally, Slovakia's membership in international organizations such as the United Nations, World Trade Organization, and Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe underscores its commitment to global cooperation and stability.

## Notable For
- **Rich Cultural Heritage**: Slovakia is renowned for its historic castles, medieval towns, and vibrant cultural festivals, including Bratislava's Old Town and the annual Bratislava Castle Festival.
- **Stunning Natural Landscapes**: The country is home to the High Tatras, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its breathtaking mountain scenery and outdoor recreational opportunities.
- **Economic Growth**: Slovakia has experienced significant economic growth and development, with a strong emphasis on education, innovation, and technological advancements.
- **Political Stability**: Slovakia is known for its political stability and democratic governance, with a strong tradition of free and fair elections.
- **Tourism Industry**: The tourism industry in Slovakia has grown significantly, attracting visitors with its historic sites, natural beauty, and cultural attractions.
- **Innovation and Technology**: Slovakia has a growing innovation and technology sector, with a focus on research and development, particularly in the fields of information technology and engineering.
- **Quality of Life**: Slovakia is recognized for its high quality of life, with a strong emphasis on education, healthcare, and social welfare.
- **Culinary Delights**: Slovak cuisine is celebrated for its hearty dishes, traditional recipes, and use of locally sourced ingredients, contributing to the country's culinary identity.

## Body
### Geography
Slovakia is located in Central Europe, bordered by Poland to the north, Ukraine and Hungary to the east, Austria and the Czech Republic to the south, and Poland to the west. The country has a total area of 49,035 square kilometers, with a diverse landscape that includes mountains, rivers, and forests. The High Tatras, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are the highest mountain range in the country, with the Gerlachovský štít standing at 2,654 meters above sea level. The Danube River, one of the longest rivers in Europe, flows through Slovakia, providing important transportation and economic opportunities.

### History
Slovakia has a rich and complex history, marked by its transition from a communist state to a democratic republic. The country was established as the Slovak Republic in 1939, following the dissolution of Czechoslovakia. After World War II, Slovakia became a socialist republic within the Czechoslovak Socialist Republic. In 1993, Slovakia declared independence and became the independent Slovak Republic. The country joined the European Union and NATO in 2004, further integrating into the European political and economic landscape.

### Government and Politics
Slovakia is a parliamentary republic with a strong tradition of democratic governance. The country's government is led by a president and a prime minister, with a bicameral parliament consisting of the National Council and the National Council of the Slovak Republic. Slovakia is a member of the European Union, NATO, and the United Nations, among other international organizations. The country's political system is characterized by its emphasis on free and fair elections, human rights, and the rule of law.

### Economy
Slovakia has experienced significant economic growth and development, with a strong emphasis on education, innovation, and technological advancements. The country's economy is diverse, with key sectors including manufacturing, information technology, and services. Slovakia is a member of the European Economic Area and has a strong trade relationship with other European Union countries. The country's economy is supported by a skilled workforce, a strong education system, and a commitment to research and development.

### Culture and Society
Slovakia is known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant festivals, and historic sites. The country's capital, Bratislava, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is renowned for its historic architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and as the political and economic center of the country. Slovakia's cultural identity is shaped by its history, traditions, and contributions to European culture. The country's society is characterized by its emphasis on education, healthcare, and social welfare, contributing to a high quality of life.

### Tourism and Recreation
Slovakia is a popular destination for tourists, with its stunning natural landscapes, historic sites, and vibrant cultural attractions. The country's tourism industry has grown significantly, attracting visitors with its outdoor recreational opportunities, cultural festivals, and historic sites. Popular tourist destinations in Slovakia include the High Tatras, Bratislava's Old Town, and the Spiš Castle. The country's tourism industry is supported by a strong infrastructure, a commitment to sustainability, and a focus on providing high-quality experiences for visitors.

### Education and Innovation
Slovakia has a strong education system and a commitment to research and development. The country's universities and research institutions are known for their contributions to various fields, including information technology, engineering, and the natural sciences. Slovakia's education system is characterized by its emphasis on critical thinking, creativity, and innovation. The country's commitment to research and development has contributed to its economic growth and development, with a focus on technological advancements and innovation.

### Sports and Recreation
Slovakia has a rich tradition of sports and outdoor recreation, with a strong emphasis on skiing, hiking, and other outdoor activities. The country's natural landscapes, including its mountains, rivers, and forests, provide important opportunities for outdoor recreation and sports. Popular sports in Slovakia include skiing, hiking, and cycling, with the country hosting various international sporting events and competitions. Slovakia's commitment to sports and outdoor recreation is supported by a strong infrastructure, a focus on sustainability, and a commitment to providing high-quality experiences for participants.

## References

1. [Igor Matovic sworn in as Slovakia's prime minister. 2020](https://www.upi.com/Top_News/World-News/2020/03/21/Igor-Matovic-sworn-in-as-Slovakias-prime-minister/4591584810212/)
2. [Slowakische Präsidentin ernennt neuen Regierungschef Heger am Dienstag. 2021](https://www.derstandard.de/story/2000125427726/slowakischer-regierungschef-matovic-tritt-zurueck)
3. [Ex-Finanzminister Heger ist neuer Premierminister. 2021](https://www.deutschlandfunk.de/slowakei-ex-finanzminister-heger-ist-neuer-premierminister.2932.de.html?drn:news_id=1244017)
4. [Slowakischer Premier Heger tritt zurück. 2023](https://orf.at/stories/3315462/)
5. [Prezidentka vymenovala Ľudovíta Ódora za premiéra v úradníckej vláde. 2023](https://hnonline.sk/slovensko/96082963-prezidentka-vymenovala-ludovita-odora-za-premiera-v-uradnickej-vlade)
6. [Slovakia swears in a new Cabinet led by a populist ex-premier who opposes support for Ukraine. 2023](https://apnews.com/article/slovakia-new-government-fico-ukraine-bfe5f251d3a3b75e72ccee60f7c591b3)
7. [Source](https://www.workwithdata.com/place/slovak-republic)
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33. [Source](https://www.ncnk.org/sites/default/files/content/resources/publications/NCNK_Issue_Brief_DPRK_Diplomatic_Relations.pdf)
34. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
35. [Source](https://www.helgdagar.com/religion_2025_1.htm)
36. [Source](https://sv.tradingeconomics.com/slovakia/holidays)
37. FIPS 10-4
38. MusicBrainz
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41. [World Bank Open Data](https://data.worldbank.org/indicator/SP.POP.TOTL)
42. [Počet obyvateľov podľa pohlavia v SR k 1. 1. 2021. The 2021 Population and Housing Census](https://www.scitanie.sk/obyvatelia/zakladne-vysledky/pocet-obyvatelov/SR/SK0/SR)
43. Population of Slovakia by gender – SR-area-region-district, cities-rural (annually) [om7102rr]. 2025
44. [Source](https://data.worldbank.org/indicator/SI.POV.GINI)
45. World Bank Open Data
46. [CVCE.eu](https://www.cvce.eu/en/obj/changes_in_the_distribution_of_seats_in_the_european_parliament-en-e6d28948-3fa8-4fe7-a552-1b062bc6fb47.html)
47. [European Council Decision (EU) 2023/2061 of 22 September 2023 establishing the composition of the European Parliament. European Parliament](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:32023D2061)
48. [Source](http://cnig.gouv.fr/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/CNT-PVM_r%C3%A9vis%C3%A9_2020-01-27-1.pdf)
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50. [Source](https://freedomhouse.org/report/freedom-world/freedom-world-2017)