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1. National strategy

2. Media literacy and online safety through formal education

3. Promoting media literacy and online safety through non-formal and informal learning

4. Raising awareness about the risks posed by new media

National strategy

Slovakia’s approach to media literacy and safe use of new media is embedded within broader digital education and inclusion policies. The cornerstone is the National Digital Skills Strategy and Action Plan 2023–2026 (NSDZaAP), adopted by government decree in December 2022. This strategy does not include a standalone media literacy policy but integrates media literacy objectives within its broader digital skills framework.

Key objectives of the NSDZaAP include:

• Enhancing digital skills across all age groups, with a focus on youth and educators.
• Increasing the number of ICT specialists and promoting gender inclusion in IT.
• Addressing the digital divide and improving digital competences in general, vocational, and adult education.

The strategy is coordinated by the Ministry of Investments, Regional Development and Informatization, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and the Council for Media Services, which plays a central role in mapping, analyzing, and promoting media literacy nationwide. The Council also represents Slovakia in European expert groups and oversees monitoring and research activities.

Media literacy and online safety through formal education

Media literacy and online safety are integrated into upper secondary and vocational education curricula. These programmes aim to develop critical thinking and awareness of digital risks such as:

• Cyberbullying
• Misinformation
• Online addiction

The Ministry of Education provides pedagogical tools and teacher training, often in collaboration with higher education institutions, to ensure educators are equipped to teach these topics effectively.

Promoting media literacy and online safety through non formal and informal learning

Non-formal initiatives are supported through public funding and civil society engagement. These include awareness campaigns and educational programmes led by NGOs and public institutions. Activities focus on promoting critical media consumption, respectful communication, and digital responsibility among young people.

Raising awareness about the risks posed by new media

Slovakia implements a variety of initiatives aimed at helping young people navigate the risks associated with digital technologies. These include public awareness campaigns, school-based prevention programmes, and counselling services that address issues such as:

• Cyberbullying
• Online grooming
• Misinformation and disinformation
• Excessive screen time and digital addiction

These efforts are supported by public authorities and often delivered in cooperation with schools, NGOs, and youth organizations.

Despite these initiatives, several challenges remain. According to the 2025 Media Pluralism Monitor, the effectiveness of awareness-raising efforts is limited by:

• Reduced funding for media literacy programmes since 2023, affecting outreach and continuity.
• Persistent digital inequalities, especially in rural areas where broadband access is limited, restricting young people’s access to safe and educational online environments.
• Gender disparities in ICT participation and a decline in STEM interest among youth, which hinder inclusive digital engagement.

While broader structural issues like media ownership concentration and journalist safety are less directly relevant to youth, they shape the overall media environment in which young people consume and interact with content. Addressing these systemic factors can indirectly support a healthier and more trustworthy digital space for young users.