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Movement for a Democratic Slovakia

political party, Slovakia
Also known as: HZDS, Hnutie Za Democratické Slovensko, LS-HZDS(Show More)

Quick Summary

The Movement for a Democratic Slovakia (HZDS) was a political party in Slovakia founded by Vladimir Mečiar. Mečiar, a former prime minister of Slovakia, played a key role in the dissolution of Czechoslovakia in 1993, leading to the creation of the independent Slovak Republic.12

The HZDS, under Mečiar's leadership, advocated for Slovak nationalism and a slower transition from socialism to capitalism. Mečiar's governments were often associated with autocratic policies, economic stagnation, and strained relations with Western countries, which viewed Slovakia's democratic principles and treatment of minorities with concern. Despite being ousted from power multiple times, Mečiar remained a significant figure in Slovak politics for many years.12

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2 Britannica Sources
  1. Vladimir Mečiar
  2. history of Slovakia

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