Almost half the population are bracing themselves for large price rises on Slovak entry to the European Union, according to a recent poll by the Slovak Statistical Office. However analysts say that the price rises will be gradual, and may take as long as 20 years to catch up to European levels.
"The first and main thing people ask about is price rises. They are afraid that it will be too much, or too quick," said Peter Zsapka from the Centre for European Politics, which has been carrying out research on the economic effects of entry to the European Union.
Slovaks will be given the opportunity to vote whether to join the European Union in a referendum on May 16 and 17.
Compiled by Conrad Toft from press reports.
The Slovak Spectator cannot vouch for the accuracy of the information presented in its Flash News postings.
