How does trust shape the world of work across Europe? Our sixth country spotlight: 🇸🇰 Slovakia

August 25, 2025

Slovakia’s industrial relations reflect an “embedded neoliberal” model shaped by post-socialist transformation and strong foreign direct investment.

Collective bargaining coverage is only 25% as of 2024, with most agreements concluded at the company level. Since the 1990s, coverage has declined due to decentralisation, falling union density, and limited sectoral bargaining.

The study reveals that trust is strongest at the national level, most fragile at the sectoral and variable at the company levels.

Evidence shows that avoidance of collective bargaining by employers significantly erodes trust. It underscores that where bargaining exists, trust has a chance to grow, benefiting all actors involved.

Challenges include legislative loopholes, growing employer indifference, and generational shifts in management priorities.

Opportunities lie in restoring sectoral bargaining, fostering continuity, and promoting sincere communication and compromise. Trust remains essential but unevenly distributed—building it takes time, commitment, and active dialogue.

📄 Want to learn more? Read the report, authored by Adam Šumichrast from Central European Labour Studies Institute (CELSI): https://celsi.sk/media/datasource/TRUE_Europe_Slovakia.pdf