Czech Child Ombudsman Martin Beneš Leaves Child‑Protection Commission After Viktorka Tragedy

The 2025 murder of three‑year‑old Viktorka, placed with her drug‑using, schizophrenic father despite numerous warning signs, intensified scrutiny of the Czech child‑protection system. Child ombudsman Martin Beneš argued that the failure stemmed from a fragmented network of social, police, medical and judicial databases and called for systemic reforms. He participated in a commission convened by the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs to examine the case, but resigned weeks before its final report, saying, “I really don’t want to co‑decide what political steps the government should take.” Beneš also opposed a Senate proposal to give children greater say in custody decisions, warning it could expose them to pressure and manipulation. Justice Minister Jeroným Tejc announced plans to file a disciplinary complaint against the judge who authorized Viktorka’s placement. The controversy has reignited debate over child‑protection legislation and oversight in the Czech Republic.