Slovak Labor Ministry Rules May 8 Victory Day a Working Day Despite Holiday Pay

Slovakia's Labor Ministry has issued guidance stating that May 8, Victory in Europe Day, should be treated as a normal working day despite requiring holiday pay rates. Former Labor Minister and tax advisor Jozef Mihál criticized the ministry's guidance, saying it sided with employers over workers and that the decision surprised him. According to the ministry's directive, employers can require employees to work on May 8 in accordance with their employment contracts, though workers must receive holiday pay supplements. The ruling establishes a precedent as Slovakia has not previously dealt with working holidays of this nature.