Slovak President Pellegrini Declines to Use New Marriage-Officiating Powers

Slovak President Peter Pellegrini announced he will not exercise newly granted authority to officiate weddings, despite parliament approving and the president signing legislation that allows the head of state to perform marriage ceremonies. Pellegrini explained his decision to avoid using this ceremonial power, though the specific reasons for his position were not detailed. The new law expands the list of officials authorized to conduct civil marriage ceremonies in Slovakia to include the president, joining mayors and other designated civil servants who traditionally perform this function.