Czech Constitutional Court Orders President Pavel to Attend NATO Summit

The Czech Constitutional Court issued a temporary ruling compelling the government to permit President Petr Pavel to attend the NATO summit in Turkey on July 7‑8. The court said the cabinet cannot place obstacles in the president’s way and highlighted the long‑standing practice of Czech heads of state participating in such meetings.

The court also warned that the accreditation deadline of June 26 must be respected. Prime Minister Andrej Babiš had previously decided not to include the president in the delegation, but the court’s order overturns that decision. Judges indicated that further statements may be required and a public hearing could be considered before a final judgment is rendered.