Artists and academics protest against culture portfolio going to Motorists’ party

More than 470 artists, academics, and cultural figures have signed an open letter rejecting the nomination of a representative from the Motorists’ party for the post of culture minister. The signatories fear that the appointment could “undermine a functioning cultural sector.”

The letter, addressed to President Petr Pavel and ANO leader Andrej Babiš, was signed by prominent figures including designer Maxim Velčovský and artists Jiří David and Jiří Černický.

They call for the ministry to be led by someone who will uphold “open, impartial, and transparent processes consistent with EU values.” The letter also stresses that the underfunded culture sector needs political trust and support to ensure that “Czech cultural and diplomatic strength can continue to grow on democratic and autonomous foundations.”