Czech government pushes child protection reforms: new online crisis hotline and lower criminal age

Prime Minister Andrej Babiš announced plans to adopt Israel's 24/7 child crisis hotline model, known as line 105, for the Czech Republic. He has contacted Israeli officials to bring experts to a seminar and highlighted that the hotline in Israel handles cases of sexual offenses, bullying and threats to life. Babiš also mentioned ongoing discussions about restricting social‑media use for children under 15.

Justice Minister Jeroným Tejc said he is preparing a proposal to lower the age of criminal responsibility from 15 to 13 for the most serious offences, such as murder or rape. The proposal follows a recent case in which a 14‑year‑old boy killed a 13‑year‑old girl. Tejc argues the change would protect society while still offering rehabilitation. The draft will be sent to the Chamber of Deputies amid opposition from some parties and legal experts.