Czech government approves new cultural policy amid criticism

The Czech government has approved a new state cultural policy for the period 2026–2029. The policy aims to reflect current government priorities, including the protection and restoration of cultural heritage, fairer remuneration for cultural workers, and the modernization of museums, galleries, and libraries. It also emphasizes digitalization, research, artificial intelligence, cultural tourism, and the strengthening of Czech audiovisual exports.

The approval follows protests from cultural institutions, professional associations, and unions, who criticized the lack of expert debate during the drafting process. Former Minister of Culture Martin Baxa described the process as an “expression of arrogance” by the current Minister of Culture, Ota Klempíř, noting that previous policies were developed with broader participation.

At the local level, the city of Hradec Králové has approved subsidy programs for 2027. These programs are designed to support significant cultural events and the ongoing activities of cultural organizations within the city. Applications for event-specific subsidies will be accepted in November 2026, while applications for organizational activities will be accepted in late November and early December 2026.