Memory policy in Slovakia at the present historical stage

Abstract

Slovakia is a young European state, the whole history of which is associated with the search and formation of its own identity. Having gained independence only in 1993, Slovakia pays great attention to the preservation and enhancement of the historical heritage, which it has to share with the Czech Republic, as well as other states of the region. The greatest attention in the system of national historical policy is given to the period of the 20th century, when, on the one hand, the foundations for the autonomous existence of the Slovak people were laid, but on the other, the Slovak people themselves had to confront the challenges of the totalitarian policy of nazism and communism. Therefore, the memory policy is being implemented at the state level, aimed, among other things, at the rehabilitation of persons who have suffered from totalitarianism. Despite the unambiguity of state policy, the situation in Slovak society is less certain, which is largely due to modern issues and challenges to which the state with its patriotic policy cannot give an unambiguous answer. Such correlation of state policy and public interests determines the relevance of the memory policy study in Slovakia. Within the framework of this article, the study proceeds through three main channels. First, it analyzes the political context and legislation that shapes the understanding of historical responsibility. Secondly, it analyzes the social climate and public opinion about the events of the past. Thirdly, there is an analysis of the educational aspect through which the perception of the past by the young generation should actually be formed. All the three channels are investigated through the author’s turning to the legislation of Slovakia, as well as modern scientific and statistical reports published by Slovak researchers, which increases the novelty of the study.