Czech news in brief for April 24: Wednesday's top headlines

The Czech Republic is facing pressure to quickly decide on adopting an amendment that would regulate debt relief rules, or risk being fined by the EU. The bill, based on a 2019 European directive, was originally supposed to be incorporated by 2021, but the Czech Republic requested a one-year delay. The EU then gave a final deadline of April 17, 2024, meaning it has already elapsed. The country may now be fined at least CZK 115 million, according to the Chairman of the Legislative Council of the Government Michal Šalomoun.

Czech and Ukrainian authorities have dismantled a Czech-Ukrainian gang of fraudulent bankers, suspected of conducting phone scams that resulted in tens of millions of crowns in damages. A total of 40 individuals have been arrested, with 23 Czechs recruited in the Czech Republic by a 50-year-old Czech woman to work at the call center in Odessa. The Ukrainian police detained 17 Ukrainians in coordination with Czech police.

The Czech cabinet has approved a draft amendment to the law on weapons, which would require dealers to report suspicious gun purchases starting in July. This is in line with a new law on weapons, signed by President Petr Pavel in March but not taking effect until 2026. The Interior Ministry proposes amending the current law to include the obligation to report suspicious transfers of weapons or ammunition, with failure to do so becoming an offense. The ministry explains that suspicious behavior cannot be precisely defined, but may include attempts to purchase a weapon illegally, using a weapon for criminal purposes, or showing "abnormal behavior" during the purchase

Czech Government Human Rights Commissioner Klára Šimáčková Laurencíková has said today that she is addressing the issue of hate speech against Ukrainian refugees in response to Amnesty International's annual report. The study highlighted hate speech towards refugees, lack of protection for sexual minorities, and the ongoing segregation of Roma children in schools. Laurencíková says she has formed an expert team to propose measures for prevention, legislation, education, and awareness. Klára Kalibová, head of the In Iustitia charity, stated that the current Czech Criminal Code does not adequately protect minorities.

The government will convene today to address various legislative amendments, including the obligation for sellers to report suspicious weapon purchases. Proposed changes also encompass revenue distribution from emission allowances and the introduction of artist status in the legal framework. The discussion follows the tragic shooting incident at Prague's Charles University in December.

Ursula von der Leyen, European Commission head, is set to visit Prague on April 30 as part of the European People's Party's campaign to secure her second term. Scheduled meetings include discussions with Czech party representatives, notably from TOP 09 and Christian Democrats. Details of her agenda are forthcoming. Von der Leyen's reelection bid was officially endorsed by the EPP in March, with key priorities centered on global challenges like the Ukraine conflict and China's ascent.

Research by Masaryk University has identified transport, local heating, and construction as primary sources of air pollution. Carried out in Brno and surrounding municipalities since 2021, the study emphasizes the need for ecological heating solutions. Finding have prompted city officials to update action plans, focusing on road cleaning methods, greenery, and stricter regulations on solid fuel burning. Public reluctance to adopt eco-friendly heating methods, however, remains a significant hurdle, say scientists.

Czech businesses express overall support for adopting the euro, citing benefits like reduced exchange rate risk and transaction costs. However, concerns linger regarding potential liability for other eurozone countries' debts and loss of monetary policy autonomy. A Deloitte survey underscores the positive outlook of Czech companies towards euro integration, anticipating enhanced trade opportunities and increased investor confidence. The government awaits evaluations on joining the eurozone and aims for a decision by next year.

In a recent Deloitte survey, Czech businesses expressed overall support for adopting the euro, citing benefits like reduced exchange rate risk and transaction costs. However, concerns linger regarding potential liability for other eurozone countries' debts and loss of monetary policy autonomy. The survey underscored the positive outlook of Czech companies towards euro integration, anticipating enhanced trade opportunities and increased investor confidence. The government awaits evaluations on joining the eurozone and aims for a decision by next year.

Six courageous canines received the annual Brave Dog Heart of the Year award for 2023, recognizing their roles in saving human lives. The awards, presented by Animal Eye NGO and Rescue Report magazine, honor remarkable acts of heroism.

Recipients include Terezka, a female Giant Schnauzer who found a woman in the rubble after the earthquake in Turkey and Kaja, a female Yorkshire Terrier, who saved her owner's life during an epileptic seizure. The ceremony took place in Prague Tuesday, showcasing the pets' remarkable bravery.