Czech news in brief for October 3: Thursday's top headlines

Lukáš Vlček, nominated for Minister of Industry and Trade, supports the EU's Green Deal and aims to push for renewable energy in Czechia. After meeting Prime Minister Petr Fiala, Vlček emphasized the importance of completing existing energy projects and fostering international cooperation. If approved by the president, Vlček will succeed Jozef Síkela, who is moving to the European Commission. Key priorities include affordable energy and foreign investment.

The EU's unemployment rate fell to 5.9 percent in August, while the eurozone held steady at 6.4 percent, according to Eurostat. The Czech Republic reported the lowest unemployment in the EU at 2.6 percent. Year-on-year comparisons showed a slight decrease in unemployment for both the eurozone and the EU. Spain had the highest unemployment at 11.3 percent. Youth unemployment in the EU dropped to 14.3 percent, impacting 2.766 million young people.

Brno's Constitutional Court ruled that retroactive alimony should be the standard when a change in circumstances, such as a child's increased costs, occurs. Alimony may be awarded up to three years retroactively from the start of legal proceedings. The court emphasized that alimony is a child's entitlement, and delays in filing for an increase should not penalize minors. The ruling applies to two unrelated cases.

The Czech government supports an amendment to limit postponements of compulsory schooling, requiring a doctor’s recommendation for deferral. It also approved state funding for school psychologists and special educators, focusing on mental health and learning support. University budgets will rise by CZK 1 billion this year. Other reforms include changes to elementary grading and teacher training. The proposals aim for gradual implementation starting in 2025.

The grape harvest in South Moravia concluded early this year due to high August temperatures. Winemakers report yields are lower than usual, with some vineyards experiencing up to 20 percent losses from spring frost. While large wineries like Znovín Znojmo are wrapping up, smaller ones have already finished. Quality remains good despite reduced acidity levels, but some vineyards reported dry, small berries, making it one of the weakest harvests in a decade.