Friends of Slovakia Inc

Friends of Slovakia Inc is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization established in 2001. It is headquartered in Washington, D.C., with the mission of strengthening friendship and mutually beneficial cooperation between the United States and Slovakia. The organization aims to promote cooperation in various fields, including economic, business, political, security, cultural, educational, and humanitarian sectors.

Mission and Activities

Friends of Slovakia seeks to enhance mutual understanding between American and Slovak people by organizing a wide range of programs and events. It works to build strong diplomatic ties between the two countries through events highlighting Slovakia's democratic transition and Transatlantic integration efforts. Additionally, the organization supports bilateral economic ties by facilitating engagement between Slovak and American companies and entrepreneurs.

In the cultural and social realm, Friends of Slovakia promotes cultural and historical ties through art, sports, and other shared values. The organization has collaborated with other institutions and embassies to host significant events, such as the Annual Freedom Lecture, which explores themes of freedom, security, and the rule of law in the Czech and Slovak republics.

History and Founding

The idea for Friends of Slovakia originated from discussions between Martin Bútora, then-Slovak Ambassador to the United States, and Theodore E. Russell, former U.S. Ambassador to Slovakia. The organization was officially established to complement existing cultural and fraternal organizations without competing with them. Since its inception, Friends of Slovakia has connected individuals from various spheres of life across both nations.

Events and Programs

Friends of Slovakia organizes several notable events, including the Annual Freedom Lecture and international student summits focused on democratic challenges. The organization also participates in collaborative efforts with other organizations to promote mutual understanding and cooperation. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Friends of Slovakia initiated a webinar series covering topics such as Slovak elections, women in foreign policy, and the impact of the Russian invasion of Ukraine on Slovakia.

In recent years, Friends of Slovakia has continued to host seminars, exhibitions, and discussions that highlight the cultural and historical ties between the U.S. and Slovakia. The organization's efforts contribute significantly to fostering a deeper understanding and stronger relationships between the two nations.