Smer-SD Considers Joining Patriots for Europe
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, leader of the Direction – Social Democracy (Smer-SD) party, is engaged in discussions with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán concerning Smer-SD's potential membership in the right-wing political group, Patriots for Europe. These consultations were confirmed by Balázs Orbán, political director to the Hungarian Prime Minister, on October 24, 2025, during a European Council meeting in Brussels.
The talks come shortly after Smer-SD's unanimous expulsion from the Party of European Socialists (PES) on October 17, 2025. The PES cited 'gross and strong contradiction with the values' of the center-left party family as the reason for the expulsion, pointing to Smer's pro-Russian views, alliances with the far-right, and stances on issues such as Ukraine, LGBTQ+ rights, and migration. Following the expulsion, Fico expressed pride in the decision.
The Rise of Patriots for Europe
The Patriots for Europe (PfE) group was officially formed on July 8, 2024, in the European Parliament, quickly establishing itself as the third-largest political force. Its formation was announced on June 30, 2024, by key figures including Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán (Fidesz), former Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš (ANO 2011), and Austrian Freedom Party (FPÖ) leader Herbert Kickl.
The group's core ideology is rooted in:
- National conservatism
- Right-wing populism
- Euroscepticism
Smer-SD's Ideological Trajectory
Smer-SD, led by Robert Fico, identifies as a left-wing nationalist and left-wing populist party, characterized by a blend of 'leftist economics and nationalist appeal'. The party had been a member of the PES since 2009 but faced increasing tensions due to its divergence from traditional social-democratic values.
The expulsion from PES marked the culmination of a period of growing ideological distance, particularly after Fico's return to power in 2023 and his government's stances on issues such as military aid to Ukraine, LGBTQ+ rights, and the EU's sanctions on Russia. Smer MEP Monika Beňová indicated that the party had received an offer from Patriots for Europe 'for a quite long time' and expressed her preference for it.
Potential Impact on European Politics
Should Smer-SD, with its five Members of the European Parliament (MEPs), join Patriots for Europe, the group's representation in the European Parliament could increase to 91 seats. This move would further solidify the influence of the right-wing to far-right bloc within the European legislative body. The alignment between Fico and Orbán is seen by some as potentially forming an 'Orbán-Fico- axis' in the EU, given their shared sovereignist approaches and critical views on certain EU policies.
7 Comments
Stan Marsh
Fico's move strengthens a nationalist voice in Europe, which some welcome for national interests, yet it could further polarize the continent and undermine collective action on crucial issues.
Eric Cartman
Good! Time for strong leaders to protect their nations.
Kyle Broflovski
The formation of a strong right-wing group like PfE reflects a real sentiment among some voters for national sovereignty; however, its Euroscepticism could destabilize the very union it operates within.
Stan Marsh
Finally, a real alternative to the EU's globalist agenda.
Eric Cartman
Excellent move. The people are tired of Brussels dictating everything.
Michelangelo
Disappointing but not surprising. Smer was never truly social-democratic.
Leonardo
While some concerns about EU overreach are valid, joining a far-right bloc might push Slovakia too far from core democratic values and international cooperation.