Thursday, January 16, 2025
The sale of Royal Mail to Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky’s EP Group is close to being finalized and could be confirmed in the next two weeks, according to sources close to the deal.
The BBC on Thursday cited sources close to the deal as saying that Kretinsky has agreed to make extra concessions in order to clinch the takeover.
The deal will still have to be approved under the National Security and Investment Act although officials stepped in with a similar review when he increased his stake in the company.
Kretinsky’s EP Group declined to comment to the BBC.
The entrepreneur has already offered the following guarantees in a bid to secure the deal. He has pledged to maintain the “one price goes anywhere” universal service and not to raid the pension surplus.
He has also said he will keep the brand name and Royal Mail’s headquarters and tax residency in the UK for the next five years and respect union demands for no compulsory redundancies to take place until 2025.
Křetínský’s offer values the company Royal Mail at £3.6 billion (almost 110 billion CZK). The management of the company International Distribution Services (IDS), which owns Royal Mail, accepted the offer in May and recommended that its shareholders approve it.
The BBC said it is thought additional safeguards may include extending the duration of the guarantees he has offered.
Royal Mail can trace its history back to 1516 and currently employs more than 150,000 people. Křetínský has previously stated that he has the “utmost respect” for its history and tradition.
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The National Gallery in Prague is set to unveil a remarkable new exhibition, École de Paris – Artists from Bohemia and the Interwar School of Paris, starting November 8.
The exhibition offers insight into artists more famous in interwar Paris than in their own country, such as Georges Kars, Othon Coubine and François Zdeněk Eberl, whose work will be exhibited in Prague for the first time
These artists were key figures in the cosmopolitan Parisian art scene, gathering in the creative hubs of Montmartre and Montparnasse, where their art became a staple in prominent galleries and publications.
Running until March 2, 2025, the exhibition promises a rare view of previously unknown works by the Czech artists of this era, emphasizing their artistic contributions and influence.
Adding a global dimension to the exhibition, pieces by other famed École de Paris artists, such as Amedeo Modigliani, Chaim Soutine, and Jules Pascin, will also be on display.
Among the highlights is Modigliani’s Woman with Blue Eyes, loaned from the Musée d’Art Moderne de Paris—a testament to the strength of international gallery collaboration and the deep interconnectedness of European art in the 1920s and ’30s.
To enrich the exhibition experience, the National Gallery has organized an extensive program of related events, featuring guided tours, educational workshops for schools, lectures, and expert-led discussions.
Through these programs, visitors will gain a deeper understanding of the interwar period and the cultural exchange that allowed Czech artists to become central to Parisian art and society.
Unique works and archival research
There will be a unique opportunity to see a number of works in Prague that have not been exhibited until now. They include works recently discovered in American collections that are returning to Europe for the first time, such as a set of works by Othon Coubine, which belonged to the collector Leo Stein, the brother of celebrated writer and poet Gertrude Stein.
The exhibition is the result of many years of research carried out by curator Anna Pravdová and not only includes the study of periodicals and correspondence from the period, but in-depth research in private and public archives in France, Austria and the United States
For more information, visit the National Gallery’s website.
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Winter is making its presence felt this weekend, with snowfall and icy conditions forecast across much of the Czech Republic.
The Czech Hydrometeorological Institute predicts heavy snow in mountainous areas and chilly temperatures nationwide, signaling the start of the cold season.
Friday: Snowfall in Higher Altitudes
Friday, November 29, will be dominated by cloudy and overcast skies. Rain is expected in lower regions, while areas above 500 meters above sea level will see steady snowfall. The mountains will bear the brunt, with forecasts suggesting 15-25 cm of fresh snow could accumulate by the end of the day. Daytime temperatures will range from 2°C to 6°C, so dress warmly if heading outdoors.
Saturday: Clearing Skies, Less Precipitation
Saturday brings a slight respite, though the day will still begin cloudy and overcast. Occasional rain showers are possible in the southeast, and higher elevations may still see snowfall. By evening, precipitation is expected to taper off, and clear skies could emerge in some areas. Daytime temperatures will remain similar, hovering between 2°C and 6°C.
Sunday: Frosty Start, Clear Day
Sunday promises clear or partly cloudy skies, with no precipitation forecast. However, be cautious during the early morning hours, as frost and ice are likely to form on roads, vehicles, and rooftops. Daytime temperatures will rise slightly, reaching 4°C to 8°C, offering a crisp but pleasant end to the weekend.
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The Israeli Foreign Minister, Gideon Saar, is set to visit the Czech Republic on Thursday, marking his first official foreign trip since assuming the role.
During his visit, Saar will engage in talks with his Czech counterpart, Jan Lipavský, focusing on the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and exploring opportunities for bilateral cooperation.
In addition to discussions with Lipavský, Saar is scheduled to meet with Senate Speaker Miloš Vystrčil (ODS) on Thursday afternoon.
Gideon Saar, the leader of Israel’s New Hope Party, assumed the position of Foreign Minister less than a month ago.
Despite his previous opposition to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Saar has joined the current government, initially serving as a minister without portfolio before stepping into his new role.
Strengthening Israel-Czech Relations
The Czech Republic has been a steadfast ally of Israel, consistently voicing support on the international stage. For example, the Czech government opposed a UN General Assembly resolution in September calling for an end to Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories within a year.
Prague also blocked a joint EU statement advocating for a ceasefire in the conflict with Hezbollah, citing Israel’s right to self-defense.
Czech officials, including President Petr Pavel, Prime Minister Petr Fiala (ODS), and other senior leaders, have made multiple visits to Israel in recent months.
Jan Lipavský was the first foreign diplomat to visit Israel following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack. During his visit, he held meetings with then-Foreign Minister Eli Cohen and President Yitzhak Herzog.
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Starting in 2026, the Czech Republic will implement a ‘conditional automation’ system, allowing drivers to use autopilot in certain situations, while still requiring them to be ready to take control if necessary.
This milestone aligns with the European Union’s push to modernize road traffic laws to accommodate autonomous vehicles.
“Autonomous driving is a major trend in the automotive industry,” said Transport Minister Martin Kupka (ODS), emphasizing the need for updates to current legislation.
The upcoming amendment will introduce “Level 3” autonomous systems, enabling vehicles to take over driving tasks on designated sections of highways, but with the requirement that drivers remain prepared to resume control.
Conditional Automation: What Drivers Need to Know
Under the new system, drivers can temporarily relinquish control to the autopilot on pre-approved stretches of road. However, they must take over when prompted. If a driver fails to act within 10 seconds, the vehicle will initiate a “minimal risk maneuver,” pulling over to stop safely.
Liability during autonomous driving depends on the situation:
- If the car operates independently and causes an accident, the manufacturer is liable.
- If the system requests driver intervention and the driver fails to respond, the driver assumes responsibility.
Authorities will assess fault using onboard data, including monitoring footage from inside the vehicle.
Despite automation, traditional rules will apply to all drivers, such as holding a valid driver’s license and adhering to bans on alcohol and drug use.
Autonomous Driving Sections: Where Will It Be Allowed?
Initially, autonomous driving will be permitted on multi-lane highways and roads with physical dividers between traffic directions.
Minister Kupka aims for widespread implementation across Czech highways. However, manufacturers will determine specific routes based on safety assessments, gradually expanding these sections as software updates improve system capabilities.
Safety remains a key driver behind the legislation. According to BESIP data, human error accounts for 60% of traffic accidents. Automated systems aim to reduce this number significantly.
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Říčany has once again been crowned the best city to live in the Czech Republic in 2024.
This conclusion comes from a comprehensive study conducted by Deloitte in collaboration with the “Community in Data” project, which analyzed 206 of the largest cities and towns in the country.
Evaluation Criteria
Each city was assessed based on 29 key criteria derived from official statistics. These included:
- Average life expectancy
- Population growth trends
- Crime and road accident rates
- Availability of medical care and doctors
- Access to schools, kindergartens, and other educational institutions
- Support for sustainable development
- Levels of environmental cleanliness
- Unemployment rates and median salary sizes
- Access to restaurants, pharmacies, ATMs, and leisure facilities
Říčany, located in the Středočeský kraj (Praha-Východ district), claimed the top spot for the seventh consecutive year. The city stood out for its low unemployment rates, excellent medical care for children, high-quality schools, and a strong sense of safety.
Additionally, its efficient transport links and abundance of pharmacies further solidify its position as the best place to live in the Czech Republic.
Prague secured second place, while the South Moravian town of Hustopeče rounded out the top three.
Purpose of the Study
The goal of this research is to assist municipalities in identifying and addressing gaps in public services through the analysis of Big Data. This initiative not only helps towns and cities improve residents’ quality of life but also provides valuable insights for individuals considering relocation within the Czech Republic.
Top 10 Cities in the Czech Republic for 2024
- Říčany
- Prague
- Hustopeče
- Brandýs nad Labem (Stará Boleslav)
- Černošice
- Slaný
- Kuřim
- Blansko
- Beroun
- Brno
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Whether you’re a local or an expat, uncovering Prague’s gourmet secrets is a journey worth taking.
Here’s a curated list of the top delicatessens you must visit, each boasting high-quality, artisanal products and exceptional service.
1. Sabores
An authentic Spanish delicatessen, Sabores brings the best of Spain to Prague. From exquisite olives and premium olive oils to the finest jamóns, cheeses, and wines, every product here is meticulously sourced. Notable highlights include Iberian ham Joselito, truffle chips from Ibiza, and fruit wines from Mallorca’s Anima Negra cellars. The warm ambiance and knowledgeable staff add to the experience, and visitors can enjoy tapas paired with top-notch coffee on-site.
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2. The Italians
A paradise for Italian food lovers, The Italians in Smíchov offers a wide range of premium products, including Prosciutto di Parma, authentic balsamic vinegar, and Barolo wines. Perfect for those looking to enjoy authentic Prosecco or stock up on Italian pasta, cheeses, and meats. The expansive layout ensures you’ll find everything you need for an Italian feast.
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3. Real Meat Society
Located near the Dancing House, this shop specializes in dry-aged steaks and premium cuts. The British owner Paul Day’s dedication to quality is evident, with customizable steak cuts and regular summer barbecues that showcase their incredible offerings. This is a must-visit for carnivores craving authentic, responsibly sourced meat.
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4. Eska
Known as the best bakery in the Czech Republic, Eska focuses on traditional baking techniques under the expert supervision of Jarda Kazdělka. Their bread, especially the signature “33” loaf, revives the flavors of yesteryear. Beyond bread, their selection includes farm-fresh delicacies like blueberry yogurt, pickled pears, and strudels. A true haven for pastry enthusiasts.
5. House of Julius Meinl
A small but mighty store offering a luxurious selection of products, including caviar, gourmet cold cuts, oils, teas, and spirits. Seasonal offerings like Italian Panettone and customized gift baskets make this a standout choice for special occasions. While the selection could expand, it remains a fascinating stop for delicacy seekers.
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6. Oliveira
For lovers of Portuguese gastronomy, Oliveira Market is a hidden gem in Vinohrady. It offers a curated selection of Portuguese wines from notable regions such as Douro and Alentejo, paired beautifully with classic sardinhas and unique canapés. Highlights include Portuguese chouriço, which pairs perfectly with Douro red wine, as well as stuffed spicy olives and port wine.
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Patients suffering from chronic pain in the Czech Republic will soon have greater access to medicinal cannabis, following a new decree from the Ministry of Health.
Starting April 1, 2025, general practitioners will be authorized to prescribe cannabis for pain relief, a significant step toward meeting patient demand and reducing dependency on traditional analgesics and opiates.
The decision comes after years of lobbying by patients and medical professionals.
Ministry spokesperson Ondřej Jakob confirmed to Novinky and Právo that the new rules are designed to simplify access.
“The decree allows GPs to prescribe medicinal cannabis for chronic, intractable pain,” Jakob said, highlighting efforts to accommodate reasonable proposals during the drafting process.
Petr Šonka, Chairman of the Association of GPs of the Czech Republic, has welcomed the change. “If GPs can prescribe opiates such as morphine, it is logical they should also be allowed to prescribe medicinal cannabis,” he explained.
Šonka emphasized that cannabis could be especially valuable for terminal cancer patients experiencing severe pain.
Until now, cannabis prescriptions were restricted to specialists, significantly limiting access. Official data reveals that only 8,000 patients currently use cannabis legally, while demand far exceeds this number.
Widespread Home Use Highlights Need for Reform
In stark contrast to the low official numbers, a survey by the National Drug Monitoring Center found that over one million Czechs used cannabis for medical purposes in the past year, with 600,000 relying on it for home treatment. Many patients resort to home-grown cannabis, despite the risks of criminal charges.
“Patients openly admit they grow cannabis at home for treatment,” Šonka said. While personal use is decriminalized, cultivation and distribution remain criminal offenses, leaving many users vulnerable to prosecution.
Broader Impact Expected
The new decree is a partial victory for advocates like Pavel Kubů, chairman of the Kopac patient association, who campaigned for all doctors qualified to prescribe opiates to issue cannabis prescriptions. While this broader demand was not met, Kubů called the change a major step forward.
“With GPs now allowed to prescribe for chronic pain, we expect the number of patients using medicinal cannabis to increase tenfold,” he said, predicting numbers to rise from the current 8,000 patients to tens of thousands. In comparison, Israel—a country with a similar population—has about 150,000 medicinal cannabis users.
Administrative burdens on doctors and patients are also set to ease. Instead of requiring monthly prescription renewals, patients can now receive three-month prescriptions, aligning with practices for other chronic conditions.
Insurance Coverage and Remaining Challenges
While 90% of the cost of up to 30 grams of cannabis per month is covered by health insurance, many patients require larger amounts. Those with conditions like multiple sclerosis often need up to 90 grams monthly, leaving them to pay out-of-pocket for the shortfall. At around CZK 200 crowns per gram, this expense can be prohibitive.
Doctors can prescribe up to 180 grams per month, but the higher amounts remain financially challenging for most patients. Despite these hurdles, the inclusion of cannabis extracts alongside dried products in insurance reimbursement marks incremental progress.
Who Benefits Most?
The primary beneficiaries of this reform are patients with chronic pain, followed by those suffering from neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis or paralysis-related spasms and seizures. As access expands, Czechia’s move aligns with broader global trends recognizing the medical benefits of cannabis.
This decree represents a milestone in healthcare reform, bridging the gap between patient needs and legal access to medicinal cannabis.
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Europe must be tough on US President-elect Donald Trump if it wants to prove something to him and persuade him to help Ukraine, said Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský during his visit to Kiev.
“If we, as Europe, want to prove something to him, maybe to convince him of something, we need to be tough too,” Lipavský said, adding that Ukraine is “tough”.
“Ukraine is so tough that it was not three days, even not three months – and I am sure it wonʼt be two years – until Russia is able to subjugate it. So I expect toughness,” added Lipavský.
At the same time, the minister emphasized the need to wait for the final composition of Trump’s administration.
“We know many names, we hear some speculations. Some names have even been dropped. We need to wait.”
The Czech foreign minister says it will be necessary to convince Trump’s team that the war is not just about Russia and Ukraine, that it is a global affair that affects food security and security in the Indo-Pacific region.
“Now, with North Korean soldiers attacking also the Ukrainian army. So it is something we need to be able to explain and to act accordingly,” he added.
Lipavský is also convinced that tough behavior will not cause a response: “This is something [toughness] which is respected in a world such as we are living in.”
Lipavský’s Ukrainian counterpart Sybiha said that he saw Trump’s election as another opportunity to achieve peace “through force,” i.e. by strengthening support for Ukraine and increasing pressure on Putin.
According to him, Ukraine hopes to develop relations with the new US administration based on this approach.
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Starting today, tram services on Libeň Bridge in Prague are suspended until further notice.
The Prague Public Transit Company (DPP) has introduced replacement buses running both directions along the affected section between Dělnická and Palmovka.
The decision comes as a precaution due to the deteriorating condition of the bridge, which could become unsafe in the current cold weather.
The replacement bus line, X25, has been extended to cover the route Palmovka – Libeňský most – Dělnická – Tusarova. Several tram lines are also experiencing changes:
- Trams 1 and 25: Now terminate at the Výstaviště roundabout after departing from Dělnická.
- Trams 6 and 14: End at the Holešovice roundabout. Passengers at Nádraží Holešovice can switch between these lines, as each will reverse direction upon arrival.
- Tram 27: Originally added as a detour during the closures of Line 17, this route is now canceled, with its connections reverting to Line 17.
The tram suspension aims to prevent a repeat of earlier incidents.
At the start of this year, the Technical Road Administration (TSK) was forced to abruptly close Libeňský most due to worsening structural integrity exacerbated by freezing temperatures.
The bridge will only reopen to trams once TSK completes its planned construction and maintenance on the broader Libeňské soumostí complex.
Commuters are advised to follow updates from DPP and plan their routes accordingly.
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A new survey has revealed that 9% of the Czech population experiences at least one form of sexual deviation, commonly known as paraphilia.
This study, conducted after a decade, sheds light on the state of sexual health in the Czech Republic.
Approximately 30% of people with paraphilic preferences could benefit from professional intervention.
However, only 6.9% of affected individuals seek help, according to Kateřina Klapilová, head of the Center for Sexual Health and Interventions at the National Institute of Mental Health.
“It’s important to note that having a paraphilic preference does not equate to committing a crime,” Klapilová emphasizes. This distinction helps combat stigma, particularly the misconception that pedophiles or other paraphilic individuals are inherently violent.
Sexual Deviations in Numbers
Preliminary data from the CZECHSEX survey, the first nationwide research of its kind in ten years, highlights that approximately 930,000 people in the Czech Republic live with some form of sexual deviation. Men are disproportionately affected, with 11.3% of men experiencing paraphilic disorders compared to 6.4% of women.
The most common forms include:
- Biastophilia (4.5%): A preference for acts involving rape or immobilization.
- Frotteurism (3%): Unconsented touching or rubbing against strangers in public spaces.
- Non-consensual sadomasochism (2.7%): Involving pain or humiliation without mutual agreement.
Other noted deviations include pedophilia, exhibitionism, and hebephilia (focused on teenage girls).
Despite the alarming numbers, most individuals with paraphilic preferences do not commit crimes. Only 7.1% of those with these preferences have committed acts of sexual violence, according to the survey. Interestingly, people without any paraphilic tendencies are more likely to report having committed sexual violence.
The Czech government is evaluating whether the country is ready to adopt the euro, following an assessment prepared by the National Economic Council of the Government (NERV).
This unpublished analysis, obtained by the Czech media outlet E15, explores the potential benefits, drawbacks, and risks of transitioning to the European currency.
However, economists have not yet endorsed entry into the European Exchange Rate Mechanism (ERM II)—a necessary precursor to adopting the euro. The decision will likely be left to the next administration.
A Strategic Review of Readiness
In February, Prime Minister Petr Fiala’s cabinet reviewed a report from the Ministry of Finance and the Czech National Bank assessing the fulfillment of the Maastricht criteria and the Czech Republic’s economic alignment with the eurozone. Subsequently, NERV was tasked with delivering a detailed analysis tailored to the country’s specific economic conditions.
Economist Mojmír Hampl, a member of NERV and one of the report’s authors, said to E15: “This wasn’t about whether to adopt the euro, but whether we should enter the ‘anteroom’—ERM II. The consensus was that the government must first set a concrete adoption date. You don’t enter the anteroom without intending to step into the living room.”
No Immediate Steps Expected
Despite receiving the analysis earlier this year, the government does not plan to act on its recommendations before the next election cycle.
According to Ministry of Finance spokesperson Petr Habáň, “The current government’s task is to ensure the Czech Republic is as prepared as possible for a serious political debate on euro adoption at the end of its term. The final decision should rest with the government formed after the next elections.”
Finance Minister Zbyněk Stanjura emphasized the priority of stabilizing public finances to create a path toward euro adoption. Although progress has been made, challenges remain.
Meeting the Maastricht Criteria: Progress and Challenges
While the Czech Republic fulfills some Maastricht criteria, others remain unmet. For instance:
- Long-term interest rates align with the eurozone’s requirements.
- Price stability, however, remains a hurdle. May’s inflation rate of 6.5% exceeded the threshold but is gradually decreasing.
Hampl and Stanjura agree that the Czech Republic is close to meeting these standards.
The primary barrier is the absence of ERM II membership. “Joining ERM II should be part of a credible political strategy, ensuring the transition to the eurozone is as swift as possible,” Habáň stated.
Public Opinion: A Key Challenge
The government must address the significant public skepticism toward the euro. Surveys conducted in early summer reveal that only 20% of Czechs currently support the switch. However, trends indicate gradual growth in public approval.
Economists urge the government to focus on targeted communication, especially with low-income households.
These groups are likely to feel the most immediate impact of euro adoption and often have lower financial literacy, making them more susceptible to misconceptions about the currency change.
