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Slovakia

WHO code: SVK
ISO2: SK
ISO3: SVK
Country code: +421
Country groups:
  • WHO_EURO
  • EU_MEMBERS
  • EU_AFTER_MAY2004
  • HBSC_MEMBER
  • EURO_SURVEIL
  • EU_BEFORE_FEB2020
General notes

Slovakia - statistical data

Slovakia is a landlocked country located in Central Europe, bordered by the Czech Republic, Austria, Hungary, Ukraine, and Poland. It covers an area of approximately 49,000 square kilometers and is characterized by a diverse landscape of mountains, rivers, and forests. The country is known for its natural beauty, with the Tatra Mountains in the north providing a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

With a population of around 5.5 million people, Slovakia is a relatively small country in terms of population density. The majority of the population is of Slovak ethnicity, with minority groups including Hungarians, Roma, and Czechs. The capital city, Bratislava, is the largest city in the country and serves as the political, economic, and cultural center of Slovakia. The country has a high standard of living and a well-developed economy, with industries such as automotive manufacturing, electronics, and tourism contributing significantly to its GDP.

Land of Slovakia

Slovakia is a country known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. The land of Slovakia is characterized by its diverse geography, which includes mountains, forests, and rivers. This unique topography provides the perfect environment for a wide range of flora and fauna to thrive.

One of the most notable features of the land of Slovakia is its numerous national parks and protected areas. These areas are home to a variety of rare and endangered species, making them important sites for conservation efforts. In addition to its natural beauty, Slovakia is also known for its historic architecture and traditional folk culture, which can be seen in the charming villages and towns scattered throughout the country.

Overall, the land of Slovakia offers a wealth of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Whether you enjoy hiking in the mountains, exploring ancient castles, or simply taking in the picturesque scenery, Slovakia has something to offer everyone. With its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, Slovakia truly is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

Climate of Slovakia

Slovakia experiences a temperate continental climate, characterized by hot summers and cold winters. The country is located in Central Europe, which allows for a diverse range of weather patterns throughout the year. In the summer months, temperatures can reach as high as 30°C (86°F), while in the winter, they can drop to as low as -10°C (14°F). 

The climate of Slovakia is influenced by its geographical location, with the Carpathian Mountains to the north and the Danube River to the south. These natural features help to regulate temperatures and precipitation levels in the country. The mountainous regions of Slovakia experience more extreme weather conditions, with higher levels of snowfall in the winter months. 

Overall, the climate of Slovakia is relatively mild, with distinct seasons and moderate levels of rainfall throughout the year. The country's diverse landscape and geographical features contribute to its unique climate patterns, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Languages of Slovakia

Slovakia is a country with a rich linguistic heritage, boasting a diverse array of languages spoken by its inhabitants. The official language of Slovakia is Slovak, a Slavic language that is closely related to Czech and Polish. Slovak is the dominant language in the country, used in government, education, and media. In addition to Slovak, there are several minority languages spoken in Slovakia, including Hungarian, Romani, and Czech.

Hungarian is the most widely spoken minority language in Slovakia, particularly in the southern regions of the country where there is a significant Hungarian population. Romani is also spoken by a minority of the population, primarily among the Roma community. Czech, while not an official language, is widely understood and spoken in Slovakia due to historical ties between the two countries. Additionally, there are small communities of speakers of languages such as Ukrainian, Rusyn, and German in Slovakia.

Overall, the linguistic landscape of Slovakia reflects the country's multicultural history and the diverse backgrounds of its population. The coexistence of multiple languages in Slovakia is a testament to the country's commitment to preserving its cultural heritage and promoting linguistic diversity.

 

Demographic trends

Slovakia is experiencing significant demographic trends that are shaping the country's population dynamics. One of the key trends is the aging population, with a decreasing birth rate and increasing life expectancy. As a result, the proportion of elderly individuals in the population is growing, leading to challenges in providing healthcare and social services for this demographic group. This shift in age distribution has implications for the labor force, as the working-age population is shrinking relative to the number of retirees.

Another important demographic trend in Slovakia is urbanization, with a growing number of people moving from rural areas to cities in search of better economic opportunities. This trend is leading to increased population density in urban areas and putting pressure on infrastructure and public services. Additionally, urbanization is changing the cultural and social fabric of the country, as traditional rural communities are being transformed by the influx of new residents.

Overall, these demographic trends in Slovakia are influencing various aspects of society, from healthcare and social services to labor markets and urban development. Understanding and addressing these trends is crucial for policymakers and planners to ensure sustainable development and quality of life for all residents.

Slovakia interesting facts

Slovakia, a landlocked country in Central Europe, boasts a rich history and culture that is sure to captivate visitors. One interesting fact about Slovakia is its diverse landscape, which includes towering mountains, lush forests, and picturesque rivers. This makes it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the great outdoors.

Another fascinating aspect of Slovakia is its unique language, Slovak. As one of the few Slavic languages that uses the Latin alphabet, Slovak has its own distinct sounds and grammar rules that set it apart from other languages in the region. Visitors to Slovakia may find it challenging to learn Slovak, but the effort is well worth it for the opportunity to communicate with locals and immerse oneself in the country's rich linguistic heritage.

In addition to its natural beauty and language, Slovakia is also known for its delicious cuisine. Traditional Slovak dishes such as bryndzové halušky (potato dumplings with sheep cheese) and kapustnica (sauerkraut soup) are sure to delight food lovers with their unique flavors and hearty ingredients. Overall, Slovakia's interesting facts make it a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the best that Central Europe has to offer.

European Programme of Work (EPW)
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