.migračný kompas: Pakt o migrácii a azyle – Ochrana zraniteľných osôb (Fórum o integrácii 2026)

The podcast episode 'Migračný kompas: Pakt o migrácii a azyle – Ochrana zraniteľných osôb' from the forum 'O integrácii 2026' features a panel discussion on the implementation of the EU Migration and Asylum Pact in Slovakia. Moderated by Lukáš Novák from Ligy for Ludské práva, the conversation includes Miroslava Mittelmanová, Pavol Dinh from the Slovak Ministry of Interior, and several experts including the Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities and the Public Defender of Rights. The discussion centers on new legal procedures, particularly border asylum hearings and verification processes, and the establishment of an independent monitoring mechanism. Key themes include the protection of vulnerable groups—especially children, persons with disabilities, and victims of violence—through special procedural primacy, and the importance of inter-institutional cooperation, child rights impact assessments, and inclusive policymaking. The panel emphasizes the need for systemic reforms, financial independence for oversight bodies, and the integration of migrant voices in policy design. The episode highlights both progress and challenges in Slovakia’s migration governance. While the country is in the second half of implementing the Pact and has developed strategic documents and new laws, concerns remain about practical enforcement, access to healthcare and education for migrant children, and the capacity of institutions to handle complex cases. The panel stresses the importance of the 'best interests of the child' principle, the role of civil society in monitoring, and the need for transparent, rights-based decision-making. The discussion concludes with a call for sustained political will, cross-sectoral collaboration, and public engagement to ensure that the Pact translates into real protection and inclusion on the ground.