Mass Protests Erupt in Prague Against New Czech Government

Mar 23, 2026, 2:53 AM

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Tens of thousands of people protested in Prague on Saturday against the policies and plans of the newly formed Czech government led by populist Prime Minister Andrej Babiš. The peaceful demonstration, held at Letná Park, attracted participants from all over the Czech Republic and is reminiscent of the significant gatherings that took place during the 1989 Velvet Revolution, which played a crucial role in ending communist rule in the country.

The protesters, estimated by organizers to number around 200,000, expressed their deep concerns regarding Babiš's leadership and the direction of his coalition Cabinet. Many fear that the government is steering the country away from its historical commitment to democracy and support for Ukraine, instead leaning toward autocratic governance, akin to the recent developments in Slovakia and Hungary.

Participants waved Czech national flags and displayed banners with messages such as "Let's defend democracy." Mikuláš Minář, the head organizer from the Million Moments for Democracy group, articulated the protesters' stance, declaring, "We're here to clearly stand against dragging our country onto the path of Slovakia and Hungary," highlighting the perceived pro-Russia and autocratic tendencies of the neighboring nations.

Babiš's return to power followed a significant victory in the October elections with his ANO party, which translates to "yes" in Czech. His coalition includes smaller parties known for their anti-migrant stances, such as Freedom and Direct Democracy, which has raised alarms about the potential shift in the country's foreign and domestic policies towards more extreme positions.

Critics argue that Babiš's government has opposed critical European Union policies concerning environmental issues and migration. Moreover, it has rejected financial aid for Ukraine and the provision of EU loans to assist the nation fighting against the Russian invasion. This aligns Babiš with leaders like Viktor Orbán of Hungary and Robert Fico of Slovakia, who share similar autocratic inclinations.

One of the most contentious proposals from the new government is a bill that critics say resembles a Russian law on foreign agents. This legislation would require non-governmental organizations and individuals involved in vaguely defined political activities and receiving foreign aid to register, with non-compliance resulting in hefty fines. Václav Pačes, former head of the Academy of Sciences, warned the crowd that "this law can easily be used to restrict personal freedom," emphasizing the potential for governmental overreach.

Furthermore, the government plans to alter the funding structure of public radio and television, a move many perceive as an attempt to gain control over these media outlets. Protesters fear that such changes would further undermine press freedom and democratic norms in the Czech Republic.

The rally was organized in response to a recent parliamentary decision not to lift Babiš's immunity from prosecution in a $2 million fraud case involving EU subsidies. The rejection of this motion means that he can only face trial after his term in the house expires in 2029, raising concerns about accountability and justice in the political system. Lawmakers also declined to allow for the prosecution of lower house Speaker Tomio Okamura on charges of inciting hatred, further fueling the perception that the government is creating a division between "ordinary people and the untouchables".

Among the demonstrators was 19-year-old student Michael Černohlávek, who expressed his commitment to defending democracy, stating, "I know that the system we have, our freedom, can't be taken for granted, and it is important for me to protect it." The sentiment among the crowd underscores a broader apprehension regarding the future of democratic values in the Czech Republic.

With more protests planned, the outpouring of public dissent reflects a significant moment in Czech politics, as citizens rally to safeguard their democratic institutions against perceived threats from their own government. The ongoing situation remains a critical development in the region, as both Czech and Slovak citizens grapple with the rising tide of populism and its implications for democracy in Eastern Europe.

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