In this episode of the Vienna Coffee House Conversations, Ivan Vejvoda sits down with Grigorij Mesežnikov, a political scientist and president of the Institute for Public Affairs in Slovakia. They discuss the complex political history of Slovakia, which has transitioned from an authoritarian regime in the 1990s to a successful democracy, only to face significant regression in recent years. Mesežnikov outlines the rise and fall of democratic governance in Slovakia, emphasizing the return of Robert Fico and his national-populist party to power. Fico’s return, Mesežnikov explains, was driven by public dissatisfaction with the previous government and his desire to escape legal prosecution by reasserting political dominance. The conversation then shifts to Slovakia’s relationship with Russia and the influence of pro-Russian sentiment within the country, particularly in the wake of the Russo-Ukrainian War. Mesežnikov highlights how historical and cultural ties between Slovakia and Russia have shaped public opinion, creating a divide between those who support liberal democracy and those more aligned with nationalist, anti-systemic forces. Despite this, Mesežnikov points out that support for EU membership remains high, though attitudes toward NATO have grown more skeptical. Finally, the discussion touches on the future of Slovakia’s democracy. Mesežnikov expresses cautious optimism that opposition parties, if united and strategically focused, may have a chance to reverse the recent backsliding in the next elections. The conversation ends on a note of hope, emphasizing the resilience of democratic institutions and the potential for change.