Karel Barták, veteran Czech journalist, dies at 72

Karel Barták, a veteran foreign correspondent for the Czech News Agency (ČTK), has died at the age of 72. His family confirmed the news.

Barták spent 28 years with ČTK, serving as a correspondent in Paris, Moscow, and Brussels. During his decade-plus tenure in Brussels, he focused on the European Union and NATO, documenting the Czech Republic’s accession to both organizations. He also spent 12 years working for the European Commission following his departure from the news agency.

Colleagues described him as a legend of Brussels journalism, noting his ability to secure high-level information from European and alliance sources that rivaled major international media outlets. He was also recognized for mentoring numerous foreign correspondents during his career.