Slovak President Says Same-Sex Marriage Debate Has Become Harmful Ideological Dispute

Slovak President Peter Pellegrini criticized the current debate over recognizing same-sex marriages, arguing it has devolved into an ideological dispute that harms rather than helps the people it affects. The president said politicians should focus on solving concrete life situations facing these couples instead of provoking conflicts. The issue has resurfaced in Slovakia following a recent ruling by the European Court of Justice and actions by the European Commission. Slovakia, a conservative Catholic-majority country, does not recognize same-sex marriage, though civil unions were legalized in 2023 amid significant political controversy.