Predecessor act

The adoption of the Act No. 198/1994 Coll. on Military Intelligence is one of those moments in the modern history of the Slovak Republic that were not accompanied by big headlines, but were of fundamental importance. The law was adopted on June 30, 1994, entered into force on August 9, 1994, and the Military Intelligence calls it a milestone in its modern history. At the time of its adoption, it provided the young state with a clear and comprehensive legal framework for the activities of the intelligence service operating within the Ministry of Defense of the Slovak Republic, whose task was – and still is – to protect the defense, defense capability and security of the country.

Why do we need an act?

This act was not just an administrative step. It was a turning point that helped Slovakia build a democratic state even in such a sensitive area as security. It determined that intelligence activities cannot be carried out willfully, but only within the limits of the law, with respect for the rights of citizens and the interests of the state. It created conditions for the systematic gathering, evaluating and providing of information important for the defense of the Slovak Republic, for protection against the actions of foreign intelligence services, terrorism or activities threatening the constitutional order and security of the state.

A high-quality act builds respect and trust

During the effectiveness of the act, a professional intelligence service was built, which became part of the security architecture of Slovakia. The act helped to build the credibility of the state with partners, to strengthen defense capabilities and to create conditions for international cooperation. Such legal and institutional foundations were also part of the broader process of building a democratic and security-trustworthy state, which ultimately resulted in the membership of Slovakia in NATO and the European Union in 2004.

Silent Service

Although a new, more comprehensive Act No. 500/2022 Coll. on Military Intelligence, which directs our activities, has been in force since 1 February 2023, the message of the Act No. 198/1994 Coll. remains relevant today. It reminds us that security is not established by itself and that the work of the Military Intelligence is important precisely because it usually takes place outside the public eye. Its goal and purpose are not headlines in the media or popularity, but quiet, professional and lawful service to the state. And therein lies the power of the message from 1994: modern Slovakia needs institutions that protect its sovereignty, freedom, security and democratic character even when (and especially when) their work is not visible.