Slovak Government Proposes Changes to NGO Oversight of EU Funds

The Slovak government is set to alter the process by which civil society representatives are selected to monitor EU funds, a move that has sparked concern among non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Traditionally, NGOs have held the responsibility for selecting these representatives, but the new proposal would transfer this authority to the Office of the Government Plenipotentiary for Civil Society Development (OSCSD). Activists argue that NGO workers possess valuable insights and expertise that are crucial for effective oversight. The Ministry of Investments has cited shortcomings in the current system, claiming it has not produced enough NGO representatives for the relevant commissions and monitoring committees. They have also noted disparities in the performance of existing representatives. Critics, however, fear that the proposed changes could dilute the expertise on these committees, potentially replacing knowledgeable NGO representatives with less experienced individuals from the third sector, thereby weakening oversight of EU funds. In defense of the changes, the Ministry asserts that the adjustments aim to broaden the nomination process to include a wider range of NGOs. They emphasize the need for a clearer procedural framework and a transparent evaluation process for civil society representatives. The ministry has indicated that further details regarding the implications of these changes will be provided in forthcoming methodological guidelines. As the situation develops, the impact of these proposed changes on the role of NGOs in monitoring EU funds remains to be seen, with many stakeholders closely watching the government's next steps.