Czech news in brief for October 9: Wednesday's top headlines

President Petr Pavel today expressed support for appointing a qualified and respected government commissioner for digitization from among experts. During his visit to Brno, he emphasized the need for government and opposition collaboration on key issues affecting the Czech economy and future prosperity. Pavel highlighted the importance of legislation aimed at simplifying company formation, streamlining construction procedures, and advancing the digitalization of the economy.

The Czech Federation of Food Banks has announced that food banks collected 1,400 tons of food and aid for flood-affected areas, valued at CZK 130 million. Approximately 300,000 individuals contributed, and over 100 trucks delivered supplies, including 70 tons transported by helicopter due to inaccessible areas. Slavíček noted that drinking water was urgently needed initially, but they can continue providing aid for several more weeks.

Czechia's Senate approved an amendment regulating substances like kratom and low-THC cannabis, introducing new rules effective December. This legislation categorizes these substances by risk level, allowing only adults to purchase them from specialized stores that prohibit children. It also prevents products from resembling toys or candy, bans vending machine sales, and establishes age verification requirements for online sales and delivery.

Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala stated that both the Czech Republic and Poland oppose the introduction of long-term checks at EU internal borders and seek a different migration approach. He emphasized the need for proactive measures against illegal migration, advocating for collaboration with third countries instead. Fiala argued that border checks are not a sustainable solution and compromise the principle of European integration.

Czech President Petr Pavel will participate in a Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting in Germany on Saturday. The group, formed by allied countries, focuses on military support and aid for Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict with Russia. This gathering will explore further contributions and cooperation in assisting Ukraine’s defense, with key discussions on bolstering international aid efforts, according to the Castle website.

Unemployment in the Czech Republic rose to 3.9 percent in September, the highest in three years. The figure is up from last year, driven by an increase in job seekers after summer, particularly in agriculture, hospitality, and construction. Rising unemployment could pose challenges for the Czech economy as it continues to recover from recent global economic pressures

According to Ales Cimbala, a spokesman for the Prague City Prosecutor's Office, employees of Prague prosecutor's offices will strike on Friday, Monday, and Tuesday over low wages, with 94 percent expected to participate. The strike will involve workers from several offices, excluding Prague 6, and will follow a similar protest by judicial staff earlier in the week. The protesters are demanding fair pay reflecting their responsibilities. Public prosecutors are not legally allowed to strike.

Health authorities report that acute respiratory infections are rising in Czechia, with Covid-19 cases at their highest this year. Over 50,000 people were treated for respiratory issues last week, including nearly 1,900 Covid-19 cases. The surge is attributed mainly to autumn’s colder weather, but officials note that the number of hospitalizations remains relatively stable despite the increase in infections.​