Ján Figeľ

2024

PROTECTION OF MARRIAGE
IN THE CONSTITUTION OF THE SLOVAK REPUBLIC

This publication is a contribution to a better understanding of the context of the adoption of the amendment to the Constitution of the Slovak Republic in June 2014, which concerned the definition, protection and support of marriage and changes in the Slovak judicial system. It is compiled from the testimony of Ján Figeľ as the author and mover, from authentic documents, speeches, articles and interviews, submitted and adopted parliamentary texts and related photographs. As of 2019, this is the third edition of this publication.

May the successful legislative initiative be an inspiration and encouragement in the struggle for a just state and a solidary society, as well as an important contribution to the renewal of the values and culture of Slovakia in the united Europe.

Language: Slovak

2014

WE CARE ABOUT FAMILY

The book “We Care About Family” by Ján Figeľ is an urgent call to return to the values that form the basis of a healthy society – family, marriage and personal responsibility. The author, a long-time politician and leader of the KDH, opens the door to the backstage of Slovak public life, where justice, solidarity and the preservation of identity are fought for. Figeľ convinces that the family is not only the cradle of life, but also the best school of solidarity, love and civic maturity. He critically evaluates current trends in the relativisation of marriage and gender issues, warns against ethical relativism and appeals to the need for constitutional protection of marriage as a unique union between a man and a woman. The book is full of concrete stories, political struggles and personal confessions. If you are looking for answers to the questions of where Slovakia is heading and what can unite us in divided times, this book is exactly for you – it invites to dialogue, engagement and a return to what really matters.

Language: Slovak

2012

CONSUME LESS, CREATE MORE

In the publication “Consume less, create more”, KDH and Ján Figeľ offer a narrative about Slovakia that begins with work, belief in values and responsibility for the future. The book presents the party’s programmatic vision: the fight against corruption, the recovery of public finances, the support of families, tradespeople and employment, but also the protection of human dignity and freedom. Figeľ emphasises that stability alone is not enough – Slovakia needs creative solutions, innovations and a moral ethos that are based on Christian ideals and the experiences of generations.

Through personal stories, interviews and the views of prominent figures, he shows that politics should be a service, not an instrument of power. The book is a call to activity, decency and responsibility of each of us: “Consume less, create more” is not just a call in the spirit of Ľudovít Štúr, but a path to a prosperous, fair and proud country that stands on solid values and wants to be part of modern Europe.

The aim of the publication is to inspire the reader to their own engagement and trust in Slovakia, which can be better if we contribute with our work. This book is for those who believe that our future depends on what we do today – and not on what we just criticise.

Language: Slovak

2011

WHERE THERE IS A PATH,
THERE IS LIFE

The book “Where there is a path, there is life” by Ján Figeľ is a powerful manifesto for all who care about the future of Slovakia. In it, the author, at the time the chairman of the KDH, reveals the behind-the-scenes of political struggles, but above all offers a clear and courageous vision of how to return stability, justice and trust to the country. Figeľ discusses key topics – from economic recovery to the fight against corruption to supporting the family and traditional values. The book is full of concrete solutions that emerged in discussions with experts and citizens. It does not offer cheap promises, but a call for responsibility, courage and balance in times of crisis. If you want to know why the path is more than a direction, and you are looking for answers to the questions of where Slovakia should go, this book will not leave you cold.

Language: Slovak

2011

AT THE HEART
OF A COMMON EUROPE

“His achievements in advancing major initiatives such as the European Institute of Innovation and Technology, innovation programmes to deliver new knowledge in the global economy and his tireless campaign for pan-European standards in higher education – all these and many other achievements have helped shape his legacy.

His belief in what Europe can achieve is evident when he speaks of the need for Europe to play a global role in this new century, when he calls for dialogue between cultures and religions and when he emphasises the crucial role of education. Ján’s role in fulfilling Slovakia’s European mission runs like a red thread through his career; as his country’s chief negotiator for Slovakia’s accession negotiations to the EU, as one of Slovakia’s representatives in the European Convention, as an observer in the European Parliament and finally as a European Commissioner in my College, as well as in the College of my predecessor Romano Prodi.

To all those who wish to be inspired by the convictions and values in our public life, I recommend reading the story of Ján Figeľ. It is the story of a modern European Christian democrat with timeless values and a pure vision of our common European future.”

From the foreword by José Manuel Barroso

Language: Slovak

2010

The path is more than
the direction.

The KDH is not just another party – it is a path that is changing Slovakia. In his speech, Ján Figeľ calls for a cleansing of public life, clean hands and conscience, because only then can real change come. Big names are also speaking about his work and leadership: Angela Merkel praised the contribution of the KDH to Slovakia’s accession to the EU and NATO and believes that with Figeľ, the KDH has a strong future ahead of it. Josef Pröll from Austria emphasised the shared values and Figeľ’s readiness to lead Slovakia in the next decade. Antonio Lopez-Isturíz from the EPP highlighted Figeľ’s sacrifice – he rejected offers from abroad in order to lead the KDH at home. Ivan Hoffman compared the beginnings of the movement to an adventure that is now bearing fruit for the entire society.

Language: Slovak

2009

RETURN HOME

At a time when Slovakia is facing crisis, populism and incompetence, the KDH comes with a clear vision of renewal – openness, expertise and teamwork. Ján Figeľ, the new chairman of the KDH, is building on the values of freedom, justice and solidarity, which should be the basis not only for politics, but also for everyday life. The KDH wants to be a leader in the fight against corruption, support families, young people and regions, improve education, healthcare and the business environment. Figeľ calls on everyone who believes in the values of Christian democracy to join – because real change starts with us.

Language: Slovak 

2005

MATURING FOR EUROPE –
A NEGOTIATOR’S CHRONICLE

Maturing for Europe is not just a political chronicle, but a personal and authentic testimony about one of the most important stages in Slovakia’s modern history – its path to the European Union. In this book, Ján Figeľ, a key figure in the negotiations on Slovakia’s accession to the EU, offers an insider’s view of the transformation process that formed the shape of contemporary Slovakia.

The publication takes the reader through the period from 1998 to 2003 – through complex political decisions, value dilemmas and diplomatic behind-the-scenes, where decisions were made not only about the country’s geopolitical orientation, but also about its credibility in the eyes of the world. The book is a combination of speeches, interviews and articles that capture the atmosphere, challenges and specific milestones of the integration process. At the same time, it reveals how closely the European perspective is related to the country’s internal stability and value maturity.

Figeľ offers not only a political assessment of the past, but also a vision – of Europe as a community of values, where the dignity of every person must be the cornerstone of our common home. Maturing for Europe is an inspiring reading for anyone interested in Slovakia’s future in Europe, and a challenge for us as a society not to relent in our efforts for maturity, responsibility and trust – at home and abroad.

Language: Slovak

2003

SLOVAKIA ON THE ROAD TO THE EUROPEAN UNION – CHAPTERS AND CONTEXTS

The book Slovakia on the Road to the EU is an engaging guide to the period when Slovakia was changing from a new, searching country to a full-fledged member of the European community. From the perspective of the 10 accession countries, it is an exceptional contribution to the transparency of this process affecting all citizens. The authors map in detail how the doors to fundamental changes opened after 1998 and Slovakia had to manage not only economic transformation, but also reforms in the areas of law, public administration and society. The reader will learn how the accession negotiations proceeded, but also what dilemmas and discussions accompanied each step on this path.

The book lists all negotiation chapters, the demands and positions of the Slovak government, the agreed contractual conditions and their contexts. The Slovak negotiation strategy, adopted in 1999, proved to be the both – ambitious and realistic at the same time. The planned integration period in 2004 became the year of the historic enlargement of the EU. And joint entry with the neighbours (Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland) as a political goal – despite a two-year delay – was fulfilled as the most favourable scenario. The contractual conditions were comparable, and in some chapters even better, than in the case of the neighbours.

The book clearly explains what all had to be changed for Slovakia to meet the strict EU criteria – from economic reforms to the fight against corruption to the adoption of new laws. At the same time, however, it shows that joining the EU was not only about politics, but also about everyday changes in the lives of ordinary people: open borders, new opportunities for study, business or travel.

The publication does not hide the challenges and questions that integration brought – how Slovak identity changed, what were the concerns about globalisation and what all still awaits resolution. Slovakia on the Road to the EU is not only an exceptional historical record, but also an inspiring story of courage, adaptation and vision for the future. An ideal read for anyone who wants to understand how a small Central European country became a confident part of Europe and what all this meant for its citizens and further development.

Language: Slovak

2025

Christian Democracy, Conservatism and the Challenge of the Extremes

This volume offers an in-depth analysis of the political shifts and challenges currently facing the centre–right in Europe. The central theme is the rise of radical-right parties and ideas, which not only strain the traditional political order but also raise questions about the future of European integration, the democratic order, and transatlantic cooperation. The authors explore the core values and strategies of Christian Democracy and conservatism and their enduring relevance. They also reflect on the nature of and possible solutions to the challenge represented by right-wing populism and national conservatism. Special attention is paid to the role of the European People’s Party (EPP), the EU’s main centre–right grouping.

The book includes contributions from prominent European politicians and academics, all offering their different perspectives. They address topics such as Christian Democratic values, the role of the EPP as a bridge between liberal and conservative traditions, and the ways to counter populism and nationalism.

The authors call for centre–right parties to reaffirm their values and develop strategies that promote resilience and openness, emphasising collaboration and sustainability to achieve a more stable European political order. This work is a must-read for anyone interested in the future of European politics and the role of the centre–right in stabilising the democratic order and maintaining social and cultural cohesion.

Ján Figeľ contributed to this collection by a chapter on ‘Christian Democracy as a Living Source of European Values and Policy Inspiration’.

Language: English

2021

Points of Light

Imagine a world where every person’s worth is recognised—no matter their background, belief, or circumstance. The Punta del Este Declaration on Human Dignity for Everyone Everywhere is a timely invitation to rediscover the core value that unites us all: human dignity. Born from the lessons of history’s darkest hours, this book weaves together reflections from global leaders and vivid photography to illuminate how dignity is not just a lofty ideal, but the very foundation of human rights, justice, and peace. Through practical principles and moving stories, the book shows how dignity can bridge divides, inspire hope, and guide us through today’s crises. It challenges us to see human rights not as abstract rules, but as a living commitment—to treat every person, everywhere, as irreplaceable. If you believe the world can be better, this book will change how you see yourself and others—and leave you eager to join the movement for dignity for all.

Language: English

2020

The Punta del Este Declaration on Human Dignity for Everyone Everywhere

The Punta del Este Declaration on Human Dignity for Everyone Everywhere is an urgent call to recognise human dignity as the bedrock of all human rights. Inspired by the aftermath of World War II and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, this declaration unites voices from diverse cultures and traditions, insisting that every person—regardless of background—is worthy of respect and value. Human dignity is not just a noble ideal; it is a practical guide for laws, policies, and daily life, urging us to bridge differences and seek common ground even in times of conflict. The declaration highlights that dignity is both a right and a responsibility, reminding us that honouring the dignity of others is essential for justice, peace, and freedom. In a world often divided, this document shines as a beacon, challenging us to build a more humane and united world.

Ján Figeľ has been a leading initiator of the Declaration idea and drafting process. The Declaration is open to additional signatures (www.dignityforeveryone.org)

Language: English

2002

Robert Schuman: For Europe

For Europe, Robert Schuman’s only book, sets out his ideas on the European question. This political testament reveals the major insights and principles that guided his political activity. Seeing little value in borders, Schuman argued that the fragmentation of Europe was a thing of the past: Europe needed to be more than a mere treaty or agreement, which might soon be forgotten. It had to become a community of cultures and a genuine community, based crucially on a strong link between France and Germany and then on the integration of free European nations. He went on to urge the transformation of economic integration into political integration and to outline the plan for the European Coal and Steel Community, concluding with his vision of nationhood, of Europe and of humanity.

For Ján Figeľ, Robert Schuman was the most inspirational statesman. To present Schuman’s legacy to Slovaks on their path toward the EU, he facilitated the translation and publication of this important book in the Slovak language. He also wrote a forward-looking reflection—a foreword addressed to today’s generations of Slovak and, at the same time, European citizens.

Language: Slovak

2001

RENÉ LEJEUNE: ROBERT SCHUMAN, FATHER OF EUROPE

On 19 March 1958, Robert Schuman (1886-1963), President of the first European Assembly, which later became the European Parliament, was awarded the title of Father of Europe for his life’s work. In a time that yearns for a reconciliation of moral and political values, the luminous figure of this great statesman and his humanistic vision of Europe are of immense value.

Respectful of others, always a servant, never a man of power, loyal and at the same time a subtle tactician – he never separated his deep convictions from their practical application. Robert Schuman was able to admirably reconcile his publicly exposed life as a politician with the life of a Christian yearning for God. If he succeeded so well, it is because he had the wisdom, courage and perseverance of those who built their house on the rock.

The fascinating life of the man who remains the Father of Europe is at the same time a testimony to history, an inspiring example of a committed Christian life. Politicians can also be saints and Europe can be an example of brotherhood. We have forgotten this. It is time to return to Robert Schuman.

Ján Figeľ wrote an introduction to René Lejeune’s book.

Language: Slovak