Slovak businesses urge government to abandon summer break amid economic concerns

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico faces mounting criticism from businesses and trade unions who are demanding concrete plans to revive the country's struggling economy rather than taking a summer pause. Fico has attempted to deflect criticism by pointing to full shopping center parking lots and vacation travel as signs that Slovakia's economic situation is not as dire as portrayed. The prime minister has also positioned himself as a defender of working people in response to the pressure. However, companies and labor organizations continue to press for clear economic strategies, arguing that this is not the time for the government to step back during the traditional summer break period.