Slovak Ombudsman Threatens Constitutional Court Challenge Over Drug Policy

Slovakia's Public Defender of Rights Róbert Dobrovodský has issued an ultimatum to the government over the country's pharmaceutical policy, warning he will take the matter to the Constitutional Court if his demands are not met. The ombudsman argues that Slovakia is heading toward a two-tier medical system where the poor will become sicker and die unnecessarily while the wealthy can afford to pay for treatment. Dobrovodský, who serves as the country's official human rights watchdog with authority to investigate government actions, expressed concern that Slovakia is moving toward a dual-class healthcare system that would undermine equal access to medical care. The threat represents a significant escalation in the debate over healthcare equity in Slovakia, as the ombudsman's office has the constitutional authority to challenge government policies in the country's highest court if they are deemed to violate citizens' rights.