A three-day report from the only international competition organised by Slovak Radio features jury members, world music experts, as well as samples of traditional music recordings. After boycotting the regular 2025 edition, 14 national broadcasters from across Europe have submitted 31 entries this year. Supported by the EBU, the contest highlights a vibrant and evolving music scene. Many traditional music events have lost state support following controversial steps taken by the current management of the Slovak Arts Council. Several state-run institutions were also caught off guard by unprecedented budget cuts. In response, representatives of the cultural sector came together on 31 March 2026 to march in support of Slovak culture.