Slovak Opposition Calls for Inquiry into FPU Eavesdropping Scandal

Parliamentary opposition group Progressive Slovakia (PS) plans to raise the alleged eavesdropping case at the Fund for the Support of the Arts (FPU) before the National Council's Culture and Media Committee and to propose a formal parliamentary inquiry. Employees of the FPU reported finding listening devices hidden under desks, prompting the fund’s manager Daniela Jahnová to confirm that criminal investigation authorities (OČTK) are now handling the matter.

The FPU, whose director František Kornaj signed its statement, asserts it has never engaged in spying on staff. The Ministry of Culture noted that the investigation falls within the competence of the police and internal fund procedures, while the Bratislava regional prosecutor’s office indicated the case is at a pre‑prosecution stage. Culture Minister Martina Šimkovičová rejected any implication of her involvement.

PS MP Zora Jaurová said, “Verím, že tentokrát koaliční kolegovia nebudú chcieť kryť odpočúvanie zamestnancov a prieskum schvália,” expressing confidence that the coalition will not shield the alleged surveillance and will approve the inquiry.