Thousands of Czech citizens have protested against government plans to replace public media licence fees with state budget funding. A bill for this change passed its first reading in late October. Critics suggest this move could increase government influence over newsrooms.
Organisers anticipate a rally planned for this Sunday on Prague’s Letná Plain could be the largest in the country's post-revolution history. Public broadcaster staff went on strike on 3 November, with demonstrations held in 21 towns and cities. During the strike, some programming was replaced with archive material.
Prime Minister Andrej Babiš stated his coalition will not be deterred by the protests, though he has suggested alternative models, including voluntary payments. He has accused the opposition and some journalists of making unfounded claims about risks to editorial independence. The prime minister argues that guaranteeing funding by law and adjusting it for inflation would reduce political influence.
The Czech proposal would reduce funding for both broadcasters by approximately 15%, reversing an increase introduced in 2025. The Babiš government states funding will return to 2024 levels, aligning with calls for all public institutions to save money. Reporters Without Borders director general Thibaut Bruttin expressed concern that the funding changes could undermine the quality and trust in public service media.