Emerging Czech government plans to scrap fees for public media

The emerging coalition of the ANO, the Freedom and Direct Democracy (SPD), and the Motorists’ parties plans to abolish licence fees for public Czech Television and Czech Radio. According to the draft government manifesto obtained by ČTK, their budgets would be subject to audit by the Supreme Audit Office, while maintaining the independence of public media is declared a priority. Experts warn that the plan lacks clarity on alternative funding. Media analyst Filip Rožánek suggested that a Swedish-style model could be considered, while Jan Potůček from Médiář cautioned that political control could threaten editorial independence.