Czech public broadcasters strike over funding overhaul

On November 3, 2026, staff at Czech Television and Czech Radio held a nationwide one-day strike in response to government proposals to overhaul the funding of public media. Protesters, supported by artists and students, gathered in Prague’s Wenceslas Square to express opposition to a bill that would replace the current monthly household broadcasting fee of 205 crowns ($9.43) with direct state budget funding, while simultaneously imposing a 15 percent cut to operational budgets.

The legislative proposal, introduced by Prime Minister Andrej Babis’ populist coalition, has passed its preliminary parliamentary reading. The broadcasters and their supporters argue that moving to state funding threatens their independence and viability, drawing comparisons to media reforms in Hungary. Inside the newsrooms, the protest led to broadcast curbs, with journalists appearing in black on air to demonstrate their concern.

While the government claims these changes are necessary, international media watchdogs have voiced alarms regarding the potential for increased political influence over editorial content. The bill currently awaits further debate in parliament, while the striking workers continue their efforts to pressure the government into reconsidering the funding overhaul.