The government of the Central European country of Slovakia has declared a state of emergency because the number of corona infections is rising rapidly.

The authorities are given extraordinary powers: they can compel medical personnel to work, even when they are on vacation.

The government can also redistribute medical equipment, even if it concerns deliveries that have already been ordered.

But the state of emergency also allows for a ban on meetings and demonstrations, and may further restrict the freedom of movement of citizens.

The decision of the right-wing populist leader Matovic is therefore considered controversial.

The state of emergency will last 45 days for the time being. One had already been announced in mid-March, but it was cancelled in mid-June.