Politician's close call highlights the perils of divided Europe

The recent events in Slovakia, where Prime Minister Robert Fico was targeted in an assassination attempt, serve as a grim reminder of the risks involved in seeking political leadership.

Fico, known for his pro-Russia and left-wing populist stance, is currently undergoing recovery after sustaining multiple gunshot wounds to the stomach. Members of the government who support the prime minister were swift to label the attack as "politically motivated," placing responsibility for the hostile political climate on the opposition and the media.

Fico himself has used emotive language in the past, accusing outgoing President Zuzana Čaputová of being an "American agent" and acting in the interests of George Soros without evidence. These claims have led to death threats against Čaputová, as reported by her allies.

The issue extends beyond Slovakia, with politics in Europe and other regions becoming increasingly divided in the last decade. Far-right and radical left-wing populists have gained influence in both domestic and European politics. Ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza have further heightened tensions, prompting citizens to look to their leaders for decisive action on contentious issues.

These tensions coexist within a political system where elected officials are required to engage with the voters who put them in power.

The shooting incident occurred during a period of intense political discord regarding Slovakia's global stance and its prospects for the future.

Fico has always been a controversial figure in politics. His followers view him as a compassionate leader who prioritizes their needs. On the other hand, his critics label him as a corrupt populist with dangerous pro-Russian tendencies.

Security personnel apprehend a suspected gunman after Slovakia's Prime Minister was shot in Handlova, Slovakia on May 15, 2024.

Security personnel apprehend a suspected gunman after Slovakia's Prime Minister was shot in Handlova, Slovakia on May 15, 2024.

-/AFP/AFP via Getty Images

Čaputová decided to take legal action against Fico after his comments, suing him for defamation. Despite being a well-liked Slovakian politician, Čaputová announced last year that she would not be running for another term. One of the reasons she cited for her decision was the verbal attacks against her and her family, which left her feeling like she didn't have the strength to continue serving.

Fico faced an assassination attempt while his coalition government was working on passing contentious measures, leading to extensive peaceful protests.

A key point of contention is Fico's efforts to reform the criminal justice system. The government aims to lessen punishments for corruption and has done away with the special prosecutor's office. This office was responsible for probing significant and politically delicate corruption cases, some of which implicated individuals closely linked to Fico and his party, SMER.

The government's attempt to shut down the public service broadcaster RTVS and replace it with a new national broadcaster under tighter government control has led to widespread protests in Slovakia.

President Zuzana Caputova appoints Robert Fico the new Slovakian prime minister at the Presidential Palace in Bratislava, Slovakia, on 25 October 2023.

President Zuzana Caputova appoints Robert Fico the new Slovakian prime minister at the Presidential Palace in Bratislava, Slovakia, on 25 October 2023.

Jakub Gavlak/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock

Slovakia is not the only country experiencing political divisions and a rise in populism. Just this week, the Netherlands took a step closer to forming a coalition government with a far-right party leading the way. In Italy, Giorgia Meloni became prime minister in 2022 by campaigning on an anti-immigration and socially conservative platform. As political lines blur in Europe, distinguishing between left and right ideologies is becoming less clear, especially in the context of populism.

The trend towards populism is expected to have an impact on the upcoming European Parliamentary elections. Recent polls indicate that there may be enough far-right Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) to potentially block legislative measures.

Being a politician in today's world can be risky due to various factors such as political division, intense overseas conflicts, increased migration, and unstable economies. This combination creates a high-pressure environment that makes the job of a politician dangerous.

Politicians are at a greater risk of violent attacks for a few reasons. They hold positions that give them a level of public visibility similar to that of a minor celebrity, making them vulnerable targets for those who wish to cause harm.

Politicians are not like minor celebrities. They are the face of policies that can evoke intense emotions in people.

For example, if a politician is part of a party that doesn't push for an immediate ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, some voters may view them as supporting genocide. Similarly, those who backed Covid lockdowns may be seen as taking away people's freedoms in the eyes of some. And if an elected official prioritizes funding for Ukraine over promoting dialogue with Russia, they may be labeled as a warmonger hindering peace efforts.

Floral tributes and candles are placed by a picture of slain British Labour parliamentarian Jo Cox at a vigil in Parliament square in London on June 16, 2016.

Floral tributes and candles are placed by a picture of slain British Labour parliamentarian Jo Cox at a vigil in Parliament square in London on June 16, 2016.

Politicians have a duty to engage with the public they serve. Unfortunately, in Britain, two parliamentarians were tragically murdered while meeting with the people they represented. In 2016, Jo Cox, a left-wing MP who advocated for Syrian refugees, was killed by a far-right white supremacist. David Amess, a Conservative MP, was also killed by an ISIS sympathizer while meeting with constituents at a church hall.

Politicians around the world face the threat of violence, extending far beyond Europe's borders. In July 2022, former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was tragically shot dead while delivering a campaign speech. Similarly, just last year, Ecuadorian presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio, known for his anti-corruption advocacy, was also fatally shot during a campaign rally, only 10 days before the first round of voting.

Despite the risks they face, politicians continue to fulfill their duties and engage with the public. It is difficult to completely eliminate this danger with security measures alone. In fact, restricting access to politicians may worsen the disconnect between elected officials and the people they serve.

If you want to make a political statement through an act of violence, targeting a politician may be the most effective option. Attacking a public figure who represents what you oppose can attract more media attention than targeting a random person. By choosing to harm someone with a political profile, you may see yourself as a political martyr rather than just a killer.

Restricting access to politicians and obtaining better intelligence on potential attackers are two ways to reduce this risk.

The first option, although more effective, may lead to the public feeling more disconnected from their leaders. The second option is more time-consuming, requires more investment in intelligence and security operations, and does not guarantee results.

One way to improve the situation is to lower the temperature of political discourse. After the attack on Fico’s life, politicians across Europe may start calling for civility in politics and denouncing radicalism. The upcoming European elections and the discussions leading up to them will reveal how committed they are to easing political tensions.

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