How the Constitution Protects the Right to Education and Health
Free secondary education is compulsory for all. The Guaranteed Volume of Free Medical Care (GVFMC) is provided free of charge. The 2026 Constitution adds: the secular character of education becomes a constitutional norm (religious propaganda in schools is unconstitutional); and environmental protection and health are linked at the constitutional level.
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Education
- Free secondary education – compulsory for everyone
- Free higher education – on a competitive basis (state grants)
- The state sets educational standards
- Private schools and universities are permitted
New in the 2026 Constitution:
- Secular character of education – a constitutional norm, not merely a departmental rule
- This means: religious propaganda in schools is unconstitutional
- Study of religions as a cultural phenomenon is permitted
A practical example: if a school imposes religious content, from 1 July 2026 this is a violation of the Constitution, not merely of ministerial rules.
Health
- GVFMC (Guaranteed Volume of Free Medical Care) – a specific list of services defined by law
- The right to health protection – a constitutional guarantee
- Private medicine is permitted
- The state ensures sanitary and epidemiological welfare
New in the 2026 Constitution:
- Strengthened environmental guarantees – the right to a healthy environment as a factor in public health
- The environment and health are linked at the constitutional level
A practical example: if you are denied care covered by the GVFMC, that is a violation of the law. Apply to the Ombudsman or the courts.
Key facts
- Free secondary education is compulsory; higher education is available on a competitive basis
- GVFMC is free for all; refusal is a violation of the law
- New: the secular character of education is a constitutional norm (not merely a departmental rule)
- The environment and health are linked at the constitutional level