The Government of the Slovak Republic (Slovak: Vláda Slovenskej republiky) exercises executive authority in Slovakia. It is led by the Prime Minister of Slovakia, who is nominated by the President of Slovakia and is usually the leader of the majority party or a majority coalition after an election to the National Council of the Slovak Republic. The Cabinet appointed by the president on the prime minister's recommendation must gain a vote of confidence in the National Council.
As the chief formulator of the nation's public policy under the Slovak Constitution, the Government has the authority to make major policies on the national economy and social security.[1] It is responsible for meeting the Government program objectives within the scope of the adopted national budget. The main functions of the Government also include making proposals on the state budget, preparing the annual closing balance sheet, and issuing government regulations and decrees under the power given to it by law. One of the government's duties is formulating and managing the nation's foreign policy.[1] It submits draft Bills to the National Council (the Slovak parliament), which are frequently preceded by nationwide discussions and consultations with the relevant organizations. As established by law, the Government can discuss in its proceedings a confidence vote motion, cases of pardoning criminal offenders, and appointment or removal from office of senior civil servants.[1]
The Cabinet is made up of the Prime Minister, who presides over Deputies and Government Ministers. The President of the Slovak Republic appoints the Cabinet on the Prime Minister's recommendation. The members of the Cabinet are responsible to the National Council (the Slovak parliament) for policy and administration.
See main article: Fico's Fourth Cabinet.