Czech senators fight for citizens' right to stay offline

A group of 17 senators has proposed this week a constitutional amendment that protects people's right to pay in cash and opt out of digital systems, according to Senate press secretary Lada Faldynová. The measures come in response to concerns over growing electronic requirements and data collection.

Senate Deputy Speaker Jiří Oberfalzer announced plans to safeguard "the minority that rejects 'electronicization'" under a broader exemption right. Senator Jitka Chalánková said it would create "an island for electronic non-swimmers" by allowing the rejection of networks, phones, payment cards, and other digital tools on privacy grounds.

Backers argue cash and choice should not be restricted by regulation or technology coercion. Senator Zdeněk Hraba warned of "limiting cash payments under various pretexts" that threaten individual freedom and society's openness.

"Our goal is to protect the minority that rejects computerization or only some of its versions for various reasons," Chalánková said, commenting on the draft amendment. According to her, nobody should be forced by law to use various electronic networks and storage devices if they do not want to.

Data boxes – virtual portals that enable online communication with public administration portals – are a prime example of what this group of senators is against. The government had originally planned to make it mandatory for people to use the data boxes, although reneged on this idea after much public pushback.

Starting next year, Czech citizens will have the option to download a digital version of their ID cards that they can carry on their phones. To access the digital ID, individuals will need a citizen's digital identity, which can be obtained through methods such as the eGovernment mobile key. Critics of the system note that – added to privacy and security concerns – the elderly generation may not have the adequate technological literacy to do this.

If the senators' proposal is approved, the amendments could strengthen citizens' autonomy over their data and transactions in an increasingly cashless, connected Czech Republic.

Some nations have passed similar "right to disconnect" and digital integrity laws, while consumer advocates worldwide push protections against forced digitization. Slovakia enacted the right to pay in cash in June, and similar legislation is planned in Austria.