Czech news in brief for April 1: Tuesday's top headlines

Czech police are investigating a fatal boat accident near Prague as possible manslaughter and a work safety violation, authorities said Tuesday. A worker drowned Monday after his boat capsized in strong currents while marking a waterway for the Vltava River Basin. Six other people on the small boat (which was without an engine) survived. Investigators have ordered an autopsy and are questioning witnesses as they assess safety compliance in the incident.

The Czech army will assist in border checks to prevent the spread of foot-and-mouth disease, Defense Minister Jana Černochová said Monday. Military veterinary personnel will inspect trucks at seven crossings. The disease, recently detected in Slovakia, threatens livestock. Agriculture Minister Marek Výborný requested military support as part of emergency measures, which include expanded inspections and preventive testing in affected regions.

Charles University, the Czech Republic's largest and oldest university, will gradually discontinue its use of social network X. The university cited incompatibility between X's policies and its core values as the reason for the move. With 17 faculties and about 53,000 students, Charles University will shift to alternative platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Bluesky, Threads, and LinkedIn for its communications.

New data from the Czech Statistical Office has found that the Czech economy grew by 1 percent in 2024, confirming earlier estimates, with GDP expanding 1.8 percent in the fourth quarter year on year. Household income increased by 1.5 percent in real terms, and per capita consumption rose by 2.4 percent. However, gross national income fell by 0.8 percent. Foreign corporations contributed 6.9 percent of GDP, distributing over CZK 360 billion in dividends. 

The Czech Republic's unemployment rate rose to 2.7 percent in February, matching Malta’s rate and the second-lowest in the EU. This marks an increase from January's 2.6 percent. The overall EU unemployment rate decreased to 5.7 percent, with Poland having the lowest overall. While Eurostat reported these figures, they differ from those provided by the Czech Labor Office, which uses a distinct methodology for calculating unemployment.

Czech opposition leader Andrej Babiš criticized Marine Le Pen’s conviction for embezzling EU funds, saying voters should decide a politician’s fate. Czech right-wing groups called the ruling unfair, linking it to political suppression. A French court found Le Pen and others guilty of misusing EUR 2.9 million (CZK 72.4 million) in EU funds. Critics claim the case reflects a broader crackdown on nationalist parties in Europe.

Czech teenager Jakub Menšík, 19, claimed his first ATP title Sunday by defeating 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic in the Miami Open final, 7-6, 7-6. Menšík, the youngest Czech Masters winner since 2005, jumped to No. 24 in the rankings. Djokovic praised his performance, calling it "phenomenal." The victory prevented Djokovic from securing his 100th career title.

Experts warn that Czechia’s cannabis penalties remain excessively harsh, even affecting medical users. At a parliamentary seminar, they called for reforms, fearing a proposed amendment allowing limited cultivation won’t ease enforcement. Currently, nearly half of those imprisoned for drug offenses are convicted for marijuana-related crimes. Lawmakers are debating changes, while advocates push for a regulated market.

A man found dead near Detva, Slovakia, was likely killed by a bear, officials said Monday. In response, Environment Minister Tomas Taraba announced a plan to cull 350 bears, citing public safety concerns. Critics, including opposition MP Tamara Stohlova, argue bear killings have not reduced attacks. Disputes over bear population estimates persist, with figures ranging from 1,275 to over 3,200.

British band Eurythmics will be the main foreign act at this summer’s BENÁTSKÁ! (s Impulsem) festival in Liberec, organizers announced Monday. Founding member Dave Stewart will perform without Annie Lennox, who is no longer touring, and will be joined by Australian singer Vanessa Amorosi. The festival, running July 24-27, will also feature Boney M and several Czech acts, including Jelen and Ewa Farna.