The Path to the Establishment of the Police of the Slovak Republic, the Transition Period (1990–1992)

Fekete, Csaba (2026) The Path to the Establishment of the Police of the Slovak Republic, the Transition Period (1990–1992). MAGYAR RENDÉSZET, 26 (1). pp. 257-268. ISSN 1586-2895

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Abstract

Introduction: In the years following the Czechoslovak regime change, between 1990 and 1992, fundamental political changes took place that directly affected the functioning of law enforcement agencies. In the process of the Slovak Republic becoming independent, it became necessary to rethink law enforcement structures, replace the former federal and state security model, and establish a national police force operating on democratic principles.Objective: The aim of this study is to show how the political transition and the process of state independence influenced the establishment of the Slovak police force. It examines its legal and organisational framework, as well as the process of alignment with democratic norms.Method: The author conducted his research using Hungarian and Slovak literature, sources managed by the Police Academy of the Slovak Republic, contemporary Slovak legislation, and analyses of transcripts provided by Slovak police authorities.Results: The transformation of the Slovak police force took place in several stages. The first step was taken in 1990 with the depoliticisation of the organisation and the dismantling of the former state security structures. Between 1991 and 1992, the Slovak internal affairs agencies gradually became independent, new legislation was drafted and adopted, and the process of building a professional workforce began. By the end of 1992, the organisational and institutional foundations had been laid for the independent Slovak Republic to establish its own police force on 1 January 1993.Conclusion: The establishment of the Slovak police force was closely linked to the creation of state sovereignty. It confirmed that the political independence, modernisation and strengthening of the social legitimacy of law enforcement agencies are essential for the success of democratic transition. The reforms of that era determined the long-term operating principles and organisational culture of the Slovak police, which continue to influence the maintenance of public safety to this day.

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