Czechia: Scores protest against public media reform

A massive protest in Prague, involving an estimated 350,000 to 450,000 individuals, took place against proposed plans to dismantle broadcasting fees in Czechia. The demonstrators' numbers caused significant congestion on public transport, with many traveling from other cities via bus and train. Proponents of the protest argue that the plan could place public broadcasters under the control of the current right-wing government, led by billionaire Prime Minister Andrej Babis.

However, Babis has denied these allegations, stating that his administration has no interest in controlling or nationalizing public media.

Foreign Minister Petr Macinka responded to the criticism by accusing the protest organizers of turning the demonstrations into a business model. Despite the protests, the government plans to finance public broadcasters through the state budget instead of broadcasting fees. Critics assert that this decision aims to bolster the government's influence, while supporters maintain that the plan won't impact editorial independence.

Public broadcasters would face a 15 percent budget reduction under the proposed media reform. The current coalition in Czechia comprises Babis's ANO party, the far-right SPD, and the Eurosceptic Motorists. Although the protests have also been directed at the existing coalition, polls indicate that ANO still holds around 30 percent support.

According to the Reuters Institute Digital News Report for 2026, trust in the media in Czechia is relatively low, ranging between 30 and 33 percent, with public broadcasters still viewed as the most trusted brands.