The career path of Denisa Žiláková, state secretary at the Slovak Ministry of Transport, has been tied to the field of EU legislation and funding for over 20 years, and she is aiming to make their use in transport as efficient as possible.
From 2001 to 2005, you worked as an advisor to the European Commission. What were your main responsibilities?
At that time, we were preparing Slovakia for EU accession. I worked on justice, home affairs, and pre-accession funds. I was in daily contact with colleagues from other candidate countries, dealing with the implementation of directives, legal standards, and coordination with the headquarters in Brussels. It was a lesson in diplomacy, compromise, and finding common ground. We truly felt like we were shaping the future. I gained a plethora of experience I still use today. That phase taught me that quality public administration depends not only on legal expertise but also on a human approach and the ability to seek consensus.
What was the EU like back then? What has changed the most?
Back then, the EU was dynamic, expanding, full of positive energy. Today, it’s more mature, facing geopolitical crises, climate challenges, and digital transformation. But the core remains: cooperation, solidarity, and the capacity to achieve big things together. I also see growth in professionalism and strategic thinking. The EU is no longer just an economic project – it’s a full-fledged political and value-based framework.
Who can draw on EU funding?
EU funds tangibly improve lives in member states. They support investments in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and innovation. Cities, municipalities, public institutions, schools, and businesses can all apply – if they have a high-quality project that follows the rules and brings public benefit. It’s about mindset – if we see funding as a tool for modernization, not just spending, it delivers sustainable results. I’ve helped implement systemic changes that simplified and clarified the use of EU funding.
What exactly does your role as state secretary involve?
I’m responsible for strategic planning, EU funds including the Recovery and Resilience Plan, railway and water transport, and road safety. Every day, I combine technical, legal, and human elements of decision-making – from project preparation to communication with the European Commission. It’s dynamic, meaningful work. I see it as a public service. My goal is for the Ministry of Transport to be seen as a competent, modern, and constructive partner for Brussels as well as Slovak municipalities, businesses, and citizens.
During your tenure, the Ministry became a leader in fund absorption. How does this affect everyday life?
That’s correct. I’m proud to say that the Slovak Ministry of Transport is currently number one nationally in drawing and contracting EU funds under the 2021–2027 Slovakia Program. But our results aren’t just about numbers – they’re about real change that people can feel. Thanks to the funds, we’re building bypasses, modernizing railways, adding park-and-ride facilities, and making crossings safer. Every euro matters when it improves someone’s life. And we’re not just investing in asphalt – we’re also focusing on systemic improvements like operational systems for intermodal terminals and green technologies. We’re showing that Slovakia can use EU funds efficiently and purposefully.
With Vice-President of European Investment Bank Robert de Groot.
How is Slovak transport doing? Does it have any weak points?
We still have a lot of catching up to do, especially in rail transport. But we have a vision, a strategy, and the resources – and, importantly, functional tools like the Strategic Investment Act, which accelerates processes. Our investment is sustainable, targeted, and systemic. We understand that mobility isn’t just about speed – it’s about accessibility, safety, and climate responsibility. In public transport, our goal is to offer people a real alternative to private cars.
Slovakia also invests heavily in road safety – not just via EU funds but also from the national budget. What does that look like?
We’re building safer roads, cycling infrastructure, and implementing intelligent transport systems. But beyond physical infrastructure, we also focus on prevention among those participating in road travel – organizing campaigns, experiential education, and teaching young people to be more responsible on the roads. We publish educational materials too. For me, prevention is a key pillar because every human life is irreplaceable – for families, communities, and society as a whole.
Much has been said about the D3 motorway. Is its completion important to you?
The D3 is critical not just for Slovakia, but for the entire EU. It connects North and South Europe, links Slovakia with the Czech Republic, drives regional economic growth, reduces traffic, and improves safety. Its completion is a top priority. It’s a strategic corridor within the trans-European transport network. Time is money – and the D3 will save time, reduce accidents, and make the region more attractive to investors. Furthermore, it’s a densely populated area, so every improvement has an immediate impact.
Let’s talk about Czechia, where your son Šimon studies law in Prague. How is he doing?
He enjoys his studies and has excellent results. We have great discussions about law, politics, and society. I’m a proud mom and a discussion partner. I value that he has his own opinions and expresses them with respect and curiosity. I hope that in the future he combines professionalism with humanity – just like I try to do.
What is your relationship with Czechia?
Czechia is my second home. I love Prague, Olomouc, and South Bohemia. I studied there, I have friends, family, memories there. I admire Czech culture, humor, and openness. Every visit reminds me of our shared history and the values we hold in common. The Czech Republic has remarkable cultural and human potential.
CV BOX
Denisa Žiláková is the state secretary of the Slovak Ministry of Transport, a lawyer and expert in European law and EU funding.
She studied law at Comenius University and management at the Institute of European Integration in Bratislava. She also completed EU fund management training at the European Academy for Taxes, Economics and Law in Berlin and studied European law at King’s College London. She later pursued further education in Paris at École de Langue – Accord and earned an MBA from Cambridge Business School in Prague.
From 2001 to 2005, she worked for the European Commission Delegation in Brussels as an advisor in justice, internal affairs, and pre-accession funds.
From 2005 to 2007, she was Director-General at the Ministry of Transport, later moving to the Ministry of Finance until 2012. From 2012 to 2016, she led the Transport Operational Program section at the Ministry of Transport.
From 2016 to August 2023, she worked at the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister and later at the Ministry of Investment, Regional Development, and Informatization.
Before becoming state secretary, she served as an EU funding advisor at the Ministry of Interior.
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