Slovakia’s budget plan emphasizes hospital funding amid rising public debt

President Peter Pellegrini said the next year’s state budget must contain growth‑oriented measures and continue financing the completion of major hospitals. He warned that the budget should not merely pass money through but invest in infrastructure, citing the unfinished university hospitals in Martin and Banská Bystrica.

The hospitals, funded with €256 million from the EU recovery plan, have entered the next construction phase and are on schedule, according to project manager Jozef Hricko. The Martin site reported progress on structural works, electrical, water and fire‑safety installations, while Banská Bystrica is also advancing.

At the same time, the Council for Budgetary Responsibility forecasts Slovak public debt approaching €100 billion by 2027, with deficits potentially rising above the EU‑set 5 % of GDP limit. Analysts warn that without further consolidation the debt could exceed 75 % of GDP by 2029, increasing interest‑payment burdens and limiting spending on health, education and other services.