Slovakia approves expanded police powers and AI usage

The Slovak government has approved an amendment to the Police Force Act aimed at strengthening the fight against terrorism, serious crime, and domestic violence. The new legislation expands police powers, including the potential use of artificial intelligence in law enforcement operations.

To increase oversight, superiors will be required to evaluate every instance where subordinates use coercive measures. If the use of force results in injury, death, property damage, or raises questions regarding legality and proportionality, a written record must be created. Additionally, police will gain new authorities, such as the ability to demand the surrender of weapons, electronic devices, and data carriers before entering guarded premises.

In response to European Union legal rulings, the amendment also expands the capabilities of the National Passenger Information Centre. The center will be able to process data from travel agencies and various transport sectors—including rail, bus, and sea travel—to close information gaps in the travel histories of individuals linked to terrorism. To ensure privacy, data requests must be justified by specific security risks and require approval from the Inspectorate Service for direct identification of passengers.