Czech MPs Vote to Replace 205 Crown TV Fee With State Funding

Czech lawmakers voted in the early hours of Saturday to refer a bill to committees that would replace the household broadcasting fee with state budget funding. The governing coalition passed the motion during an overnight session, moving the overhaul forward despite opposition warnings about media independence.

The proposal eliminates the current 205 crown, or $9.45, monthly fee paid by households. Under the new plan, money for Czech Television and Czech Radio would come directly from the state budget. The measure also reduces funding for both broadcasters by approximately 15 percent. Nominal funding levels would remain unchanged for several years after the initial cut.

Prime Minister Andrej Babis pledged to abolish the fee before taking office in December of last year. He leads a three-party government that includes the far-right SPD party. Babis stated that the new model is fairer to poorer households and forces outlets to operate more efficiently.

In a Facebook post late Friday, Babis addressed critics who claim the changes threaten press freedom. He wrote, "There is no war for independent media," adding that no fight for democracy or nationalization of media is being prepared.

Opposition parties have compared the reform to changes made under Viktor Orban, the former prime minister of Hungary. Employees at the public broadcasters raised concerns in June when they staged a strike. They argued that tying funding to the state budget makes them vulnerable to government pressure.

Czech public media hold a prominent position in the country. They rank among the most trusted news sources, and Czech Television is the most-watched broadcaster across several age groups. The government has frequently criticized both public and private media for their coverage of its policies, accusing some outlets of bias.

A civic group has called for a public demonstration on Sunday. Journalists and other employees at the broadcasters have announced a strike for November 3 to oppose the new funding structure.