Slovakia Received Nearly €29 Billion in EU Funds Over 20 Years, But Regional Gaps Persist

Slovakia has received almost €29 billion in net EU funding over the past two decades, according to an assessment by the Supreme Audit Office. The audit found that European Union funds improved the country's infrastructure and living standards, but were less effective in supporting innovation and productivity growth. The primary goal of reducing regional disparities was only partially achieved, with eastern Slovakia remaining significantly below the EU average in economic development. The funding system continues to suffer from persistent problems including excessive bureaucracy, poor management, weak oversight, and last-minute spending rushes to meet deadlines. These structural issues have plagued Slovakia's EU fund absorption throughout the more than 20-year period since joining the European Union.