European Commission monitors Czech TV and radio fee abolition law

The European Commission is closely monitoring the bill to abolish fees for Czech Television (ČT) and Czech Radio (ČRo) and is in contact with the Czech authorities. Commission spokesman Lammert said the Czech side has already replied to a letter sent earlier, and the response is now being assessed.

“We are aware of the Chamber of Deputies’ decision and of the bill’s approval in first reading in October. We will continue to follow developments closely,” he said.

What Brussels says

According to the spokesman, public media play a special role in ensuring that citizens have access to information and diverse content. Lammert added that the European Media Freedom Act (EMFA) contains a number of safeguards for media freedom and pluralism in the EU, including the independent operation of public media. The Commission, he said, is in close contact with all member states regarding the application of the act.

What the law provides for

In the early hours of Saturday, 24 October, the Chamber of Deputies backed the government bill in first reading. It provides for abolishing the fees and moving the funding of ČT and ČRo into the state budget. The bill now goes to the Chamber’s committees, followed by two more readings. If the deputies pass it, the Senate and the president will consider it. Under the original draft, the law is due to take effect on 1 January 2027.

Employees of Czech Television and Czech Radio have announced a strike on Tuesday against the government’s plans.

Around Prague, based on reporting by novinky.cz