European Socialists Prepare to Fully Exclude Robert Fico’s Party from Their Ranks
Tensions and internal divisions within Europe’s left-wing political forces are intensifying once again.
Sources reveal that the leadership of the Party of European Socialists (PES), the most influential political organization uniting socialist and social-democratic parties across the European Union, has taken a decisive step regarding the Slovak political force Smer-SD, which belongs to this organization.
According to reports from Politico and European Pravda, on Tuesday, September 11, the PES presidium unanimously agreed that Smer-SD would no longer be part of this European political family.
This decision marks a significant move toward further disintegration and cleansing of the socialist ranks from members who conflict with EU values and the rule of law.Furthermore, the decision, which still needs confirmation at the Amsterdam leadership meeting scheduled between October 16 and 18, effectively signifies the final expulsion of Robert Fico’s party from PES membership.
It is worth noting that Smer-SD’s membership was temporarily suspended in October 2023, along with its allied political force Hlas, led by Slovak President Peter Pellegrini.
However, Hlas currently faces exclusion delays, while Fico, Slovakia’s Prime Minister, is increasingly distancing himself from the European socialist community.The growing rift between Fico and European socialists stems from his policies that hinder sanctions against Russia and undermine democratic principles within his country.
This move by the PES is a clear signal to all political actors across Europe: committed to consolidating values and combating authoritarianism, European socialists are setting a new threshold for their members and partners.