Czech government moves to overhaul public media financing amid EU law concerns

The coalition government led by Andrej Babiš plans to change the financing model for Czech Television (ČT) and Czech Radio (ČRo), moving funding levels back to those of 2024 and emphasizing cost‑saving measures. Prime Minister Babiš asserts the reforms will not affect editorial independence, but critics argue the legislation could undermine the autonomy of public broadcasters.

Former EU commissioner Věra Jourová warned that the proposed law may conflict with EU rules designed to protect media independence in member states. She noted that any definitive assessment would rest with the European Court of Justice. Separately, STAN party leader Vít Rakušan pledged to restore financing rules that safeguard public media from political influence and to ensure they can cope with inflation.

Both officials highlight the tension between national budgetary priorities and compliance with EU standards on media freedom.