The article highlights alarming statistics from Slovakia's statistical office, which reported an 8.5% year-on-year drop in industrial production in December, the worst decline in four years. This downturn has impacted several sectors, including the automotive industry, and reflects a larger trend, with the industry overall reporting a 3.1% decrease for the entire previous year. The author, a former advisor to the Prime Minister, suggests that the current government led by Robert Fico has exacerbated economic challenges rather than alleviating them.

In addition to the industrial decreases, the article posits that the Slovak government has contributed to the deterioration of the economic landscape by dismantling the principles of a flat tax system which had previously attracted foreign investment and stimulated domestic economic growth. The flat tax system, with a unified tax rate including VAT at 19%, was a significant factor in making Slovakia an attractive destination for investors due to its streamlined tax obligations and reduced tax burdens. The author's criticism extends to the governance style of Fico and his party, Smer, along with defectors from the Hlas party, implying that their policies have impaired the country's economic health.

The piece concludes by calling attention to the lack of positive news within the Slovak public sphere, implying that the growing number of negative reports surrounding the economy raises concerns about the overall societal well-being. With citizens facing continuous economic hardship, the author stresses the importance of acknowledging both the context of current challenges and the historical successes that are now under threat due to poor leadership.