Czech government boosts culture funding, sector warns it falls short

The Czech government will allocate an additional 175 million crowns from this year’s state budget to support live culture and cultural activities, Culture Minister Oto Klempíř said after Tuesday’s meeting with representatives of cultural institutions and employers.

According to Klempíř, the extra funding was pledged by Finance Minister Alena Schillerová. Of the total increase, 50 million crowns will go to theatres and orchestras, while a further 125 million crowns will support broader cultural activities, including festivals.

However, representatives from across the sector — including singers, actors, theatre professionals and librarians — warned that the increase is insufficient. They say without further funding, institutions may be forced to lay off staff or raise ticket prices.

The Culture Ministry’s budget for this year stands at 17.6 billion crowns, more than one billion crowns less than projected under the previous government.