Czech unemployment benefits may increase in early months
Unemployment benefits in the Czech Republic could rise from 65% to 80% of previous earnings in the first few months of unemployment, while later months would see a decrease from 45% to 40%. Eligibility for extended benefits would start at age 52 instead of 50. The maximum benefit cap would also increase from 0.58 to 0.8 times the national average wage. Stricter rules would require nine months of work instead of six to requalify. The proposal, backed by the government and social partners, aims to enhance labor market flexibility and encourage retraining.