Reflecting on Two Years Since the LGBTQ+ Tragedy in Bratislava

Two years ago, Slovakia’s capital witnessed a tragedy that shook the LGBTQ+ community. Two young individuals, Matthew and Juraj, were fatally shot in a senseless act of violence, driven by hatred. Sadly, since that day, not much has changed. If anything, the situation for LGBTQ+ rights in Slovakia has only worsened.

In this post, I want to take you through the aftermath of this tragic event, explore what led to it, and discuss how society’s response has been far from adequate. What has changed since then, and where do we stand now?

The Attack That Shook a Community

On October 12, 2022, in broad daylight, two LGBTQ+ individuals were murdered in a Bratislava bar. The attacker, a radicalised teenager, had initially aimed to assassinate a political figure. Failing that, he turned his hatred towards the LGBTQ+ community, committing a horrific act that left everyone in shock. While this was an isolated incident of violence, it brought to light deep-rooted societal issues that cannot be ignored.

The Societal Consequences

What followed was even more alarming. Instead of rallying behind the community, many political leaders either remained silent or, worse, used the tragedy to advance their own agendas. Public figures made insensitive comments, and LGBTQ+ individuals were further marginalized. In a country where empathy and political leadership could have fostered healing, there was a deafening lack of support.

Where are We Now?

Despite the tragedy sparking outrage, Slovakia has made little to no progress in securing LGBTQ+ rights. An attempt to pass even a minimal version of registered partnerships failed in parliament, and many politicians continue to avoid the issue entirely, seeing it as politically “toxic.” This lack of action has left the LGBTQ+ community feeling marginalised and unsupported.

Meanwhile, public acts of homophobia have become more visible. A gay couple was physically attacked in a prestigious Bratislava restaurant, and instead of helping, the staff removed the couple. Incidents like these highlight how discrimination is not just societal but institutional, with little recourse for victims. Sadly, many LGBTQ+ individuals, myself included, feel unsafe in a country that should be our home.

Even now, the political landscape in Slovakia seems determined to move backward rather than forward. The winning party in the recent elections, a populist faction led by Robert Fico, openly attacked transgender people during the campaign. One of the most disturbing moments came when a political figure mocked the genitalia of transgender individuals, turning a deeply personal and human topic into fodder for political gain.

Moreover, Milan Mazurek a far right politician representing Slovakia in European parliament spoke out publicly against commemoration event organised on two years anniversary of the shooting calling for cancelation and calling it "LGBTQ+ propaganda". It’s no wonder that LGBTQ+ individuals in Slovakia, myself included, feel we have no future in a country that shows us so little respect and care.

Looking Forward 🌈

What’s most disheartening is the realization that change, if it happens, is slow and fraught with resistance. But that doesn’t mean we stop fighting. It means we push harder for the rights that everyone deserves—no matter who they love.

If this topic resonates with you, let’s continue the conversation. Watch the full video to dive deeper into the story and the fight for equality.