Czech TV warns of insolvency over proposed fee changes

Proposed changes to licence fees could be devastating for Czech Television, according to Karel Novák, chairman of the broadcaster’s supervisory council. Novák warned the public broadcaster could face insolvency and has called an extraordinary council meeting for April 8 to discuss the issue with management.

He was responding to remarks by lower house speaker and SPD leader Tomio Okamura, who said the ruling coalition planned to abolish licence fees for selected groups including seniors over 75, companies, young people under 26, and people with disabilities as of mid-2026, which would slash Czech TV's income by a third.

Although the proposal has not yet been formally submitted, Novák said it cannot be ignored since, if adopted, it would have a devastating impact on Czech Television.