Slovak Journalist Peter Schutz Attacked, Government Ministers’ Response Sparks Backlash

January 10, 2026 – Slovakia –

A prominent Slovak journalist, Peter Schutz (70), was violently attacked by an unknown assailant on the afternoon of January 10, 2026, at a shopping centre in eastern Slovakia, according to initial reports. The assault, widely condemned by media organisations, raised immediate concerns about journalist safety and political rhetoric in the country. At least two Slovak government ministers responded publicly to the attack not by focusing solely on violence against the press but by criticising Schutz’s published commentary and suggesting his writings contributed to tensions, prompting criticism from press freedom advocates.

Schutz is a well-known commentator and columnist whose work has often featured critical analysis of political developments in Slovakia and Europe. His experience underscores ongoing debates over media independence and the tone of political discourse, especially following periods of heightened societal division in Slovak politics. Observers say the government officials’ remarks were widely seen as inappropriate and dismissive of the seriousness of a physical attack on a journalist, potentially sending a troubling message about the value placed on protections for reporters.

Civil society organizations and editorial bodies have urged authorities to prioritize the safety of journalists and unequivocally condemn violence, regardless of ideological differences. They argue that public commentary by political leaders should not shift blame onto media professionals in the wake of attacks, as doing so may contribute to a climate of hostility toward independent reporting. The controversy reflects broader concerns about press freedom and the relationship between political power and media criticism in Slovakia and across Europe.

Photo: After the attack on Peter Schutz, Slovak Interior Minister Matúš Šutaj Eštok condemned violence in general but said “not even an alleged attack on a commentator can diminish his responsibility for words that helped inflame emotions and divide the public.” | Jakub Gavlak/EPA

References –

https://www.politico.eu/article/slovak-journalist-attack-draws-crocodile-tears-government-ministers-peter-schutz/

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