Czech Senate approves major overhaul of Criminal Code

The Czech Senate on Thursday approved sweeping amendments to the country’s Criminal Code, introducing a new legal instrument dubbed the “child certificate.” The measure aims to bolster child protection by restricting individuals convicted of serious crimes, particularly sexual and violent offenses, from working with minors.

Under the amendment, offenders sentenced for crimes carrying a minimum upper penalty of five years will receive a lifetime entry in a newly established register containing data relevant to child-related employment. Those convicted of less severe offenses, where the upper sentence limit is less than five years, will face a 20-year employment ban in sectors involving children. Crucially, these records will not be eligible for early removal.

The bill will now go to President Petr Pavel for final approval.