I first moved to Prague in the summer of 2023 when I was conducting primary source research for my dissertation thesis at the National Library of the Czech Republic in the Clementinum building right at the centre of Prague. Anyone who has been to the library knows its notorious reading room, subtle halls, lusciously adorned green courtyard, and vibrant history. The time I spent there and by exploring the unique history of the city cemented my affection for it. I knew I wanted to move back to the region after my graduate studies were over and I was lucky enough to land a position at Radio Prague International (RPI) making that dream a possibility.
Originally, I completed my undergraduate studies in political science and philosophy at the University of British Columbia, at the scenic Okanagan Campus. Afterward I went to McGill University for my graduate degree to study post-communist societies, the political history of eastern and central Europe and, in particular, Czechoslovakia in the interwar years (1918-38) and after the fall of socialism (1990-93). I hope that my avid fandom of politics, history, and everything in between is reflected in the work I do at RPI.
articles by the author
-
Rare unexploded World War II bomb near Litvínov leads to evacuation of residents
An unexploded 500-pound bomb from the Second World War, found on Wednesday on a chemical plant in Záluží near Litvínov has led to the evacuation of 600 residents.
-
Czech army wants to open up to as many recruits as possible
An upcoming amendment to the decree on medical fitness for active military service, effective September, aims to streamline the process for military enlistment.
-
The internet transforming language of Czech youth
Czech children and teenagers are crafting their own language, filled with slang and new expressions, often borrowed from English.
-
Czech conservationists call for special police unit to protect wildlife
Despite years of appeals from nature and animal conservationists, Czech police have not created a dedicated unit to address incidents of poisoned birds or poaching.
-
Czech game developer responds to Russia’s proposed ban on Last Train Home
The Russian prosecutor's office is demanding a ban on the distribution of the computer game Last Train Home, developed by Ashborne Games in Brno.
-
Over 100 Czech high school students participate in pilot army training program
In light of the invasion of Ukraine, the Czech military aims to increase the number of recruits. One program is a one-month training for high school students.
-
Volunteers from around Europe restoring wetland in Šumava National Park
From 17 to 24 August 2024, more than 30 young volunteers from five European countries will participate in a camp focused on wetland restoration in Šumava National Park.
-
Czech archaeologists discover a 7,000-year-old Neolithic settlement
Archaeologists have uncovered a Neolithic settlement in Dobren, near Kutná Hora. This site provides insight into life in the Czech lands seven thousand years ago.
-
Critically endangered peregrine falcon starts to thrive in Jeseníky Mountains
The population of the critically endangered peregrine falcon has been thriving in the Jeseníky Mountains. More than twenty pairs of these birds live in southern Czechia.
-
Czechia's housing market among least affordable in Europe
According to the latest DPI, Czechia ranks as the second-most expensive country in Europe to buy property when adjusting for salaries. I asked Vladimír Vaňo why.