Resolution Challenges EU Overreach on Ethical Issues
In an important resolution defending national sovereignty and human dignity, the Slovak National Council (Slovakian parliament) recently passed a resolution criticizing the European Parliament’s efforts to include the right to abortion in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union. This resolution underscores a broader conflict between the European Union and national autonomy, particularly in sensitive ethical matters like abortion, where the EU seeks expansive power while national treaties and the principle of subsidiarity protect autonomy.
The Context
On April 11, 2024, the European Parliament adopted a resolution advocating for the inclusion of abortion rights in the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights. This resolution aims to standardize access to abortion across EU member states, framing it as a fundamental human right. However, such measures encroach on health policy—a competence of member states under the principle of subsidiarity enshrined in the EU treaties. This resolution of the European Parliament is one of many that the EU use to put more and more pressure on members states on matters where the EU have no competence.
Slovakia’s response is emblematic of a feeling from many EU nations about preserving cultural, ethical, and legal autonomy. The Slovak Parliament’s October 5th resolution explicitly references its 2002 Declaration on sovereignty in cultural and ethical matters, emphasizing that these domains should remain under national jurisdiction.
Key Provisions of the Slovak Resolution
The resolution passed by the Slovak National Council:
- Reaffirms Sovereignty: It recalls the 2002 Declaration emphasizing national control over cultural and ethical issues.
- Expresses Concern: It highlights repeated attempts by the European Parliament to override member states’ rights, using the April 2024 abortion resolution as a case study.
- Rejects Interference: It outright rejects the European Parliament’s moves to influence national health policies.
- Calls for Action: It requests formal communication of this resolution to the Slovak Prime Minister, signaling the government’s alignment with the parliament’s stance.
Why This Matters
The Slovak resolution raises critical questions about the balance of power within the European Union, particularly concerning cultural and ethical autonomy, legal precedents, and democratic principles. Ethical issues such as abortion are deeply embedded in national histories, traditions, and religious beliefs, making the imposition of a one-size-fits-all policy a significant challenge to the EU’s cultural diversity. Moreover, health policy is explicitly recognized as a national competence within the EU framework, and attempts to centralize control in this area could set troubling precedents for other policy domains. Finally, national parliaments, being directly elected to represent the will of their people, are essential to the democratic fabric of the EU. Overriding their decisions risks alienating citizens and undermining trust in the European project.
One of Us supporting democracy and Human dignity
The One of Us Federation applauds the Slovak National Council for its resolute defense of democracy, the European Treaties and human dignity through its recent resolution. This action reflects the One of Us unwavering commitment to the principles of subsidiarity and the intrinsic value of every human life. By opposing the European Parliament’s push to include abortion as a “fundamental right” in the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights, the Slovak parliament has upheld the right of member states to legislate on sensitive ethical issues according to their own cultural and moral frameworks. Such a stance not only respects the diversity of values within Europe but also safeguards democratic processes by ensuring that decisions reflect the will of the people.
Stand up with One of Us
This moment serves as a vital reminder of the need for vigilance in protecting democratic principles and the inherent dignity of all human beings. The One of Us Federation remains steadfast in advocating for policies that honor life and empower nations to preserve their cultural and ethical sovereignty. By supporting this resolution, Slovakia has demonstrated commendable leadership in upholding these values—leadership that should inspire others across Europe. We invite citizens who share our commitment to human dignity and democracy to join the One of Us Federation. Together, we can build a Europe that respects the diversity of its nations while remaining steadfast in its dedication to democratic principles and the protection of every human life. Join One of Us here and be part of this vital mission defending Human Dignity and national sovereignty.
