The safety of journalists in Slovakia remains a pressing concern following a violent attack on Kristína Kövešová, a reporter and presenter for TV Markíza, in late 2024. The incident, which occurred in the Farárske district of Trnava, left Kövešová with a broken nose, concussion, and spinal injuries. Despite the presence of police officers in the area on unrelated duty, the assailants were not deterred.
The physical consequences of the attack continue to impact Kövešová’s health. She reports ongoing neurological treatment. “After the attack on Farárskom, which has been for over a year now, I regularly attend a neurological clinic. Doctors speak of more serious damage to the cervical spine (vertebrae pressing on the spinal cord) and long-term treatment… alleviating movement restrictions and relieving pain… I apologize for not always being able to reply, but sometimes we fight like this too,” she shared in a social media post accompanying a photo of herself receiving an intravenous infusion.
Kövešová remains resolute in her commitment to journalism. “P.S.: Of course, we will never give up!” she declared. She further revealed that her attacker has been convicted of assault and released back into the community. “The man who attacked me was convicted of causing bodily harm. After a few months in prison (he is still on probation), he is already back on Farárskom. According to experts, he has no problem attacking again,” Kövešová stated.
The attacker’s history of violence extends beyond the assault on Kövešová. She reported that he and others previously attacked another woman, resulting in even more severe injuries. “The case of Farárske will continue to be our focus. Please, let’s not forget the decent people who live there,” Kövešová urged her followers.
The attack on Kövešová occurred while she was investigating a surge in gang-related violence in the Trnava region, specifically focusing on attacks, threats, and assaults targeting vulnerable individuals, including women and the elderly. The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has called on Slovak authorities to swiftly complete their investigation and hold those responsible accountable, emphasizing that violence against the press is unacceptable. Attila Mong, CPJ’s Europe representative, stated the need for concrete measures to ensure journalists’ safety.
TV Markíza has condemned the violence and pledged full cooperation with the police. The station intends to broadcast the full investigation Kövešová was working on, highlighting the critical public interest issues she was pursuing. The investigation centers on a wave of violence that has plagued the Farárske area, prompting residents to seek assistance due to a perceived lack of police response and a growing fear for their safety.
The incident underscores the risks faced by journalists covering sensitive topics, particularly those involving organized crime. The fact that the attack took place despite the presence of law enforcement raises questions about the effectiveness of security measures and the level of protection afforded to reporters in the field. The swift detention of a suspect, as reported by Trnava regional police, is a positive step, but the subsequent release of the perpetrator on probation, coupled with assessments that he poses a continued threat, highlights the complexities of the situation.
The broader context of the attack is a concerning trend of intimidation and violence against journalists in Slovakia. Kövešová’s unwavering commitment to continue her reporting, despite the serious injuries she sustained, serves as a testament to the importance of a free and independent press. However, the incident also serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences for those who dare to investigate powerful and dangerous individuals or groups.
The case raises questions about the adequacy of legal protections for journalists and the resources allocated to ensuring their safety. While the Slovak authorities have responded to the attack, the long-term implications for press freedom and the ability of journalists to report without fear of reprisal remain uncertain. The continued monitoring of the situation and a commitment to holding perpetrators accountable are crucial to safeguarding the fundamental right to freedom of expression.
The release of the attacker back into the community, despite expert assessments of his potential for re-offending, is particularly troubling. This raises concerns about the effectiveness of the judicial system in protecting potential victims and deterring future acts of violence. The situation demands a comprehensive review of security protocols for journalists and a renewed focus on addressing the root causes of violence and intimidation in the Trnava region.
