Czechia: Scores protest against public media reform

A massive protest in Prague, estimated between 350,000 and 450,000 participants, voiced opposition to plans to abolish broadcasting fees in Czechia. The sheer number of protesters led to crowded public transport, with many attendees traveling from other cities via bus and train. Protests claim the reform could place public broadcasters under the control of Prime Minister Andrej Babis's right-wing government.

However, Babis refuted these concerns, stating his government has no intention of controlling or nationalizing public media. Foreign Minister Petr Macinka countered, accusing organizers of turning demonstrations into a business model.

The proposal, introduced in April, sparked numerous large-scale protests, including a day-long strike by Czech TV and radio. International organizations, such as the European Broadcasting Union, European Federation of Journalists, and Reporters Without Borders, have also criticized the plan. Babis's government seeks to fund public broadcasters through the state budget instead of broadcasting fees, explaining that while the plan won't impact editorial independence, broadcasters need cost reductions. Critics argue the Czech government aims to increase its influence through this decision.

The suggested media reform would reduce public media's budget by 15%. The current coalition in Czechia comprises Babis's ANO party, the far-right SPD, and the Eurosceptic Motorists. Despite the criticism, polls indicate ANO still maintains around 30% of the support. According to the Reuters Institute Digital News Report for 2026, trust in the media in Czechia is low, ranging between 30 and 33%, with public broadcasters still being perceived as the most trustworthy brands.