The recent assassination attempt on Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico is not just an isolated incident; it’s a distressing symptom of a larger disease infecting our societies. As Fico fights for his life on the operating table, Slovakia, and indeed the world, must confront the toxic environment of political polarization and hate that breeds such violence.

The details of the attempt are chilling. Fico, a three-time prime minister, was shot five times after an off-site government meeting in Handlova. The gunman, now in custody, acted with a clear political agenda, according to Interior Minister Matúš Šutaj Eštok. This isn’t merely an attack on an individual; it’s an assault on democracy itself.

“This assassination attempt was politically motivated and the suspect made the decision to do it shortly after the presidential election,” Interior Minister Matúš Šutaj Eštok told a news conference outside the hospital in Banská Bystrica, where the prime minister is being treated.

The response from global leaders has been swift and unanimous in condemning the attack. US President Joe Biden labeled it a “horrific act of violence,” echoing sentiments from NATO, European Union leaders, and even Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. However, amidst the condemnation lies a stark reality: the seeds of such violence are often sown within our own societies.

Slovakia’s defense and interior ministers were candid in their assessment of the situation. They pointed to rising hate speech and division within the country as catalysts for the assassination attempt. Defense Minister Robert Kaliňák pleaded for an end to the cycle of hate, emphasizing that “hate is not an answer to hate.” His words carry weight, echoing the sentiment that political differences should never escalate to violence.

Furthermore, Interior Minister Šutaj Eštok issued a call for calm, urging both the public and the media to reflect on their roles in perpetuating or countering hateful rhetoric. Indeed, the media wields significant influence in shaping public discourse, and it’s imperative that this power is used responsibly to foster understanding and unity, rather than division and animosity.

At the heart of this issue lies a fundamental question of democratic values. When political dissent transforms into violence, the very essence of democracy is threatened. Slovakia, like many nations, stands at a crossroads. It can either succumb to the poison of polarization or choose the path of dialogue, tolerance, and respect for differing viewpoints.

The attempted assassination of Prime Minister Fico should serve as a wake-up call for all of us. It’s a stark reminder of the fragility of democracy and the dangers of allowing political discourse to descend into vitriol and hatred. Now more than ever, we must reaffirm our commitment to the principles of democracy, reject violence in all its forms, and work towards building a society where differences are resolved through dialogue, not bullets. Only then can we truly honor the ideals for which so many have fought and sacrificed.

By Ioana Constantin