Permanent Representative of the Slovak Republic to NATO visited the Faculty of Social and Economic Sciences of Comenius University Bratislava
Bratislava, 21 March, 2025: The Permanent Representative of the Slovak Republic to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), Marek Varga, visited the Faculty of Social and Economic Sciences of Comenius University Bratislava (FSES CU) yesterday, accompanied by members of his team. He delivered a speech and engaged in a discussion with students in the faculty’s auditorium.
Marek Varga was welcomed to FSES CU by the Vice-Rector for External Relations, Radomír Masaryk. In his introductory remarks, he reflected on the current uncertain global situation and mentioned the recent successful visit of the NATO Secretary General to Comenius University. “The event saw an unprecedented turnout — the auditorium filled up within 30–40 minutes, which happened for the first time in the university’s history. It shows the great public interest in security issues and Slovakia’s position within NATO,” Vice-Rector Masaryk stated.
Samuel Švajda, a member of the accompanying team and an alumnus of FSES CU, introduced Mr Varga and highlighted his extensive experience, including service in Bosnia and Herzegovina, his role as a military expert in Washington, and his post as ambassador in the Middle East. The diplomat assumed the post of Permanent Representative of the Slovak Republic to NATO on 1 September, 2024.
In his speech, Mr Varga addressed NATO’s transformation in response to current challenges, particularly the war in Ukraine, and emphasised Slovakia’s important position as a medium-sized country within the alliance. “In today’s unstable international situation, our membership in the North Atlantic Alliance Treaty Organisation (NATO) is of vital importance. Without the firm protection and the safe haven provided by international cooperation within the alliance, we would be in a vulnerable position. Therefore, it is crucial for us to remain closely connected with our allies.”
During the discussion, he referred to the results of a recent Focus agency survey, which showed that 70% of Slovaks support NATO membership. Mr Varga underlined the link between security, stability, and prosperity. Students raised questions regarding concerns over the United States’ commitments to NATO, European defence capabilities, and the future of NATO enlargement — especially regarding the potential membership of Ukraine. They also discussed increasing defence spending.
Toward the end of the event, participants raised the possibility of reintroducing compulsory military service. Mr Varga responded that a return to conscription in Slovakia was unlikely. Samuel Švajda pointed out the job opportunities and internships within the alliance, and, along with another team member, Lea Preisinger, reassured attendees of the implementation of gender equality within NATO bodies.