Czech government approves criminal law reform emphasizing fines over incarceration

The Czech government approved a major reform of criminal law focusing on alternative punishments, including fines, and partially decriminalizing certain offenses, Justice Minister Pavel Blažek (Civic Deocratic Party) announced. The reform also loosens restrictions on cannabis cultivation and possession.

Blažek stated that the current penal system is outdated and misaligned with EU standards, and the changes aim to relieve overcrowded prisons, streamline legal proceedings, reduce reoffending, and cut state expenses. Prime Minister Petr Fiala called the reform essential, with the government planning to implement it by the end of its term.