The new year in Czech politics began with calls for calm, unity and responsibility. In his third New Year's address in office, President Petr Pavel struck a cautious but clear tone towards the new government composed of the ANO, SPD and Motorists movements. He wished the cabinet success in its measures to benefit citizens and emphasised that he considered it right to give it space at the beginning. At the same time, however, he indicated the boundaries that he, as head of state, considers uncrossable – the protection of democracy, its institutions, the security of the country and the Czech Republic's belonging to the free world.
The president spoke openly about his concern regarding the division within Czech society. According to him, it is not a matter of insurmountable differences of opinion, but rather that public debate has long been dominated by an emphasis on contradictions and conflicts. According to Pavel, it is precisely this tone that weakens society's ability to seek common solutions.
He also highlighted the positive aspects of the past year – rapid economic growth compared to other European countries, a high level of security, and an extraordinary degree of solidarity and charity. He also praised the international achievements of Czech scientists, particularly in the fields of physics and biochemistry.
Prime Minister Andrej Babiš In his New Year's speech, which lasted more than seven minutes, he focused primarily on uniting society through pride and patriotism. He thanked voters for their support in last year's parliamentary elections and emphasised that the government's goal is to make Czechia a country where it makes sense to work, do business and start a family. He recalled the cabinet's first steps, including the rejection of the ETS 2 system and the migration pact, the approval of a new building law and the search for savings in individual ministries.
Babiš described 2026 as a year of hard work, particularly due to the preparation of the state budget, which he believes should be transparent and accurate. He also spoke about the fight against the grey economy, the growth of real wages and pensions, and improvements in the accessibility of healthcare and the quality of education. A significant part of his speech was devoted to the topic of peace.
He rejected the politics of fearmongering about war and emphasised that peace is not weakness, but a responsibility towards future generations. His intention to propose 30 March as Czech Flag Day – a reminder of the statehood, identity and continuity of the Czech state – is also a symbolic gesture.
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