Czech Republic

More than twenty years ago, we said “yes” to the European Union — and since then, we’ve been balancing between sovereignty and cooperation, between Brussels and Prague. What have we gained, and what have we had to let go of? Is it possible to remain an independent state while being an active member of the European team?

The European Commission’s proposal for the 2028–2034 Multiannual Financial Framework has sparked lively discussions among EU governments and in the European Parliament. With close to €2 trillion at stake, the key question is how the EU can finance its priorities, repay pandemic-era debt, and support countries such as Poland and Czechia — all while avoiding new political rifts. EUROPEUM analyst Filip Křenek takes a closer look at the issue here.

The European Commission has presented its proposal for the EU's multiannual budget for 2028–2034, which it describes as ambitious. However, a closer look reveals that its actual form is more modest than grandiose. The new budget brings changes in structure and priorities that may have a significant impact on Czechia, as explained by EUROPEUM Institute analyst Filip Křenek in the Europe Up Close podcast.

The election victory of Andrej Babiš's movement in the Czech Republic sparked a wave of congratulations from Budapest, Bratislava, Italy, and the French far right. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán called it "a big step for the Czech Republic and good news for Europe." But what does this "good news" really mean for the European Union? Martin Vokálek, executive director and head of the Brussels office of the EUROPEUM Institute, commented for LRT.

Andrej Babiš’s victory could raise concerns in Brussels, but analysts believe the outcome will depend on his future cabinet. Despite his alliance with Hungary’s Viktor Orbán, Babiš is viewed as a pragmatist rather than a hardline eurosceptic, making a sharp turn in Czech foreign policy unlikely. Martin Vokálek, executive director and head of the Brussels office of the EUROPEUM Institute, commented on this for European Newsroom.

According to Brussels analysts, Andrej Babiš's victory would not be a positive sign for the EU, but the nature of his cabinet will be decisive. Although he is compared to Viktor Orbán, experts describe him as a pragmatist rather than a radical Eurosceptic, which suggests that Czech foreign policy may not undergo a fundamental change. Martin Vokálek, executive director and head of the Brussels office of the EUROPEUM Institute, commented on this for České Noviny.

Is there a risk that the Czech Republic could leave the European Union or NATO under the government of the ANO movement and Andrej Babiš? It is unlikely, but Kateřina Konečná and the Stačilo! coalition, which continues to push for a referendum on withdrawal from both organizations, are emerging as potential partners for Babiš's government. Martin Vokálek, Executive Director and Head of the Brussels Office of the EUROPEUM Institute, commented for Blesk Zprávy.

Despite positive economic statistics, dissatisfaction and a feeling of powerlessness prevail among Czech voters. This atmosphere may contribute to the return of 71-year-old Andrej Babiš to the forefront of politics. Viktor Daněk, Executive Director and Head of the Prague Office of the EUROPEUM Institute, commented for Weekendavisen.

Former PM Andrej Babiš wants to cancel Prague’s ammunition initiative, but critics warn that would harm both Prague and Kyiv. The situation was commented on by Martin Vokálek, Executive Director and Head of the Brussels Office of the EUROPEUM Institute.

No euro, no EU. Ahead of the elections, populist rhetoric calling for an end to European integration is gaining strength. But anti-EU politicians from Stačilo! and SPD remain silent on how “painful” a breakup with Brussels would be – and what scenario would await the Czech Republic. Martin Vokálek, Executive Director of the EUROPEUM Institute, commented on the issue for Seznam Zprávy.

The extension of emission allowances may be one of the main issues of the autumn campaign. Viktor Daněk, deputy executive director of the EUROPEUM Institute for European Policy, commented on it for Deník N's podcast Vrtěti psem - where did this EU change come from, why is it important and who bears political responsibility for it?

You're invited to a special Café Evropa debate as part of Prague Pride 2025! Why is social tolerance increasingly targeted by populist attacks? How can we protect freedom, diversity, and open debate in an increasingly polarized environment? Join us on Monday, July 30 at Europa Experience for this important discussion!