Prague Pride returns for 2024 edition with enhanced security amid threats

Prague Pride is set to make a grand return this week from Aug. 5 to 11, featuring over 200 events celebrating LGBTQ+ rights across the Czech capital. The festival culminates in the Pride Parade on August 10, starting at 12 p.m. from the lower part of Wenceslas Square and winding through various city streets towards Letná Plain.

In anticipation of large crowds, traffic restrictions will be in place next Saturday, particularly affecting Čechův most, which will be closed to all vehicles, trams, and buses for approximately three hours.

This year’s theme emphasizes the concept of family defined by love and mutual respect, rather than blood relations. The city will again adorn streets with rainbow flags and illuminate the Petřín Lookout Tower to show its support.

“Prague will always stand up for the rights of everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation, race, or faith,” Prague Mayor Bohuslav Svoboda declares in a press release. 

"The conservative majority in Czech parliament did not support [marriage equality] this year, despite the majority of society being in favor," adds city councilor Adam Zábranský. "That's why the fight for equal rights does not end with us. I categorically condemn any possible manifestations of violence during the festival."

Increased security for 2024 festival

Following information from the Slovak National Crime Agency about a potential attack at a similar event in Bratislava, Prague police are stepping up their efforts during this year's festival. Despite no specific threats to Prague Pride, the festival will see an increased presence of police officers, especially during Saturday's parade.

Increased security presence will include riot police, anti-conflict teams, and specialists equipped with long guns and ballistic protection. The deployment also includes a police helicopter to oversee both the festival's events and the parade.

"Given the information from Slovakia about potential threats, we are enhancing our security parameters," says Prague Police spokesperson Jan Daněk. The enhanced security aims to ensure the safety of the tens of thousands expected to attend this year's Prague Pride festival.

Labor Ministry withdraws support

In a surprising move, the Czech Labour and Social Affairs Ministry has distanced itself from this year's Prague Pride festival. The ministry, led by Marian Jurečka from the Christian Democrats, has clarified that it has not supported the festival in recent years.

The ministry’s logo was only recently removed from Prague Pride’s website following complaints from the conservative Alliance for the Family. This group has been vocal against LGBTQ+ rights and has criticized the ministry’s previous association with the festival.

This distancing contrasts with previous financial support given under past leadership. Eliška Černá, a spokesperson for Prague Pride, noted that the logo was mistakenly left on the site after the ministry's support ceased.

More information about this year's Prague Pride festival, and a full schedule of events, can be found at the official Prague Pride website.