Slovakia

From Gothpoodle

• Population: 4.0 million
• Aspects: Stable, Fourth Wave

Slovakia has had some difficulty keeping up with its more prosperous neighbors, but as of 2100 it has a comfortable Fourth Wave economy.

Slovakia is notable for its treatment of its Romani (Gypsy) minority. Facing a steep population decline similar to those of other Eastern European nations, Slovakia chose in the 2040s to implement a strategy of encouraging replacement migration. In particular, Gypsies from elsewhere in the world were encouraged to immigrate, joining the pre-existing Romani community in Slovakia. At present as much as 20% of the population is Romani, the highest proportion of any nation-state. Many of the Gypsy immigrants have struggled in the local economy, leading to tension with the Slovak majority. On the other hand, a few Gypsies have done quite well, attaining prominence in national and European affairs as a result.