Czech Justice Ministry launches probe into alleged illegal lobbying by Minister Aleš Juchelká

The Ministry of Justice opened an investigation into the Union of Social Services (Unie sociálních služeb) over suspicion that its leaders held repeated meetings with Minister of Labour and Social Affairs Aleš Juchelká while the union was not yet listed in the mandatory lobbyist register.

The union, which represents more than 50 organisations, says the talks concerned a draft amendment to the social services law and the financing of regional services, and denies any attempt to influence legislation or grant allocations. It was entered in the register only on 23 June, after meetings in January, April and May. The probe also examines a 65 million‑CZK grant awarded to the association “Dohled na dosah”, chaired by Viktor Kubát, which rose by 43 million CZK compared with the previous year. Ministry spokesperson Vladimír Řepka confirmed the review, noting that the lobbying law, in force since 1 July 2025, requires pre‑registration and regular disclosure of lobbying activities.