Czech Television faces criticism over controversial COVID-19 debate

Czech Television (Česká televize) is facing backlash from media professionals and the initiative Veřejnoprávně following a broadcast of the program Rozpleteno. The episode, which focused on the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic, featured guests that critics describe as central figures in the disinformation scene.

Participants included molecular geneticist Soňa Peková, who has faced professional repercussions regarding her views on vaccines, epidemiologist Jiří Beran, and politician Jindřich Rajchl. Critics argue the program failed to provide critical distance or context regarding the guests' previous controversial claims, such as the laboratory origin theory of the virus.

The initiative Veřejnoprávně issued a statement condemning the episode for providing an exclusive platform to individuals whose stances have been rejected by the scientific community. Media workers from Czech Television and Czech Radio have also expressed concern, calling the broadcast a scandalous breach of professional rules and urging leadership to prevent similar occurrences in upcoming episodes.