Czech public broadcasters face strike over planned funding overhaul

The initiative Veřejnoprávně announced a warning strike by staff of Czech Television (ČT) and Czech Radio (ČRo) that will last 24 hours, with details on its form to be disclosed later. The strike is a response to the government’s plan to end licence‑fee payments and fund the broadcasters directly from the state budget.

Prime Minister Andrej Babiš confirmed the financing change, saying the exact amount has not yet been set and denying any intent to influence editorial content. Veřejnoprávně warned that the reform threatens the stability and independence of public media and cautioned against following the examples of Slovakia, Hungary or Poland.

The proposed strike aims to pressure the government to preserve the broadcasters’ autonomy while the financing model is debated.