Worrying talk

Leading Slovakian intellectuals including Martin Butora, Grigorij Meseznikov and Miroslav Kusý warn in an open letter published by the liberal daily Sme about the increase in nationalistic and racist rhetoric used by leading Slovakian politicians. The letter was a reaction to a renewed volley of anti-Hungarian verbal abuse by Jan Slota, head of the co-ruling National Party, as well as anti-Semitic comments made in parliament. "We have been observing this trend with concern for some time now. And even more worrying is the fact that xenophobic speeches have failed to draw unequivocal condemnation from Slota's coalition partners. On the contrary, a number of politicians have simply played things down. Political culture is thus sinking to a dangerous level in Slovakia. Nationalist rhetoric has become a political weapon that panders to the most primitive feelings and negative stereotypes. And if it becomes clear that this weapon is effective, other politicians will use it in confrontation with their rivals. ... We appeal to the general public not to remain silent about this."

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