Key facts
- Legislation to shift public media financing to the state budget and cut funding by 15% was fast-tracked.
- Critics argue the changes threaten press independence and leave broadcasters vulnerable to political influence.
- The licence fee system would be scrapped, with funding coming from the state budget instead.
- Opposition leader Zdenek Hrib likened the government's actions to Hungary under Viktor Orban.
The Czech ruling coalition fast-tracked legislation to move public media financing to the state budget and cut funding by approximately 15%, drawing criticism that the move threatens press independence and increases political control. The proposal would scrap the current household licence fee system. Critics, including opposition leader Zdenek Hrib, argue the changes mirror tactics used in Hungary under Viktor Orban. The government, led by Prime Minister Andrej Babis, claims the changes will not affect editorial coverage.