The Helsinki Commission has exceptionally long engagement on Slovakia, issuing its first report on developments there in 1990.
In 1992, Czechoslovakia chaired the OSCE, with Jiri Dienstbier representing the country for the first six months, followed by Josef Moravcik for the remainder of the year.
The Czechoslovakia Federation dissolved on January 1, 1993 and the Czech and Slovak Republics became independent states. The Commission actively engaged on what was initially a rocky transition to democracy and respect for human rights through the period when Slovakia became a net exporter of expertise on democratic transitions. Slovakia has become a strong partner to the United States in many areas and Helsinki Commissioners have led two delegations to Bratislava. Helsinki Commissioners continue to encourage Slovakia to improve the protection of human rights for members of the Romani minority, including by addressing past sterilization without informed consent.
Staff Contact: Jordan Warlick, policy advisor
