Former deputy Dominik Feri has been sentenced to three years in prison. The decision was confirmed by the Prague Municipal Court.

Feri, a former TOP 09 member, resigned from his parliamentary seat amidst the accusations but maintained his innocence. The case involves incidents reportedly occurring in Feri’s Žižkov apartment in 2016 and an attempted assault in 2018.

However, he rejected claims that he had committed rape, although conceded that his behaviour may have been “inappropriate” at times.

During the appeal process, Feri challenged the credibility of the girls who accused him of rape. He argued against the evidence presented, particularly regarding the presence of narcotics in a drink provided to one of the victims.

The victims, including a minor, accused Feri of various sexual acts without their consent.

The Prague 3 District Court ruled that Feri is to pay a total of CZK 510,000 to the victims, and another CZK 33,000 to cover the cost of psychotherapy for one of them.

Adéla Hořejší, representing the victims, emphasized the impact of the crimes on their lives and advocated for higher compensation.

She pointed to the psychological trauma Feri’s victims had endured and the impact of the assault and hearings on their private lives. She also mentioned that Feri had tried to dissuade two of the women from testifying.

According to Hořejší, Feri does not think of women as human beings, but uses them as objects for his sexual needs. She described his behavior as “predatory.”

 

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The Czech government is proposing a change that could make it simpler for skilled workers from certain developed countries to find employment in the Czech Republic.

According to a draft regulation, citizens from Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, the United Kingdom, and the United States might not need work permits or employment cards starting in July.

This amendment to Czech employment law aims to attract highly qualified professionals and managers by granting them easier access to the job market. It would also reduce the administrative burden on businesses seeking to hire foreign talent.

The Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs, which prepared the draft, explained that these countries were chosen because they represent strong economies and because the Czech Republic has a history of successful collaboration with them.

However, the Ministry acknowledges that unlike the existing agreements with some of these countries, “reciprocal treatment” for Czech workers in those nations is not guaranteed.

While work permits are not currently required for some of these nationalities under existing agreements, the Ministry admits these agreements haven’t been widely used. They emphasize that citizens from these countries typically hold high-skilled positions and are not seeking illegal work or asylum.

Data from Czech employment offices in March 2024 supports this claim. Among registered foreign employees from the proposed list, over half possess university or doctoral degrees, and more than 80% hold skilled positions. This is significantly higher than the average foreign workforce in the Czech Republic.

While these seven countries represent only a small portion (1.1%) of the total foreign workforce in the Czech Republic, their numbers include 4,434 Britons, 2,505 Americans, and a combined total of over 2,000 individuals from the other listed nations.

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The renovation of Prague’s Máj department store on Národní třída Street is nearing its June completion date. 

Visitors will now have access to nine out of 11 floors, a significant increase from the previous six. This translates to a more spacious retail area of 17,000 square meters.

The revamped basement level will house a Tesco supermarket, while the first and second floors will be dedicated to restaurants, cafes, pharmacies, and shops offering flowers, accessories, clothing, and more.

Foodies will rejoice at the new food hall, boasting a whopping 750 seats and a diverse selection of quick bites and classic dishes from popular brands like Popeyes, Burger King, Banh-mi, Prima bašta, Misushi, Amerikanos, and others.

The upper floors will cater to entertainment with an amusement park and dedicated spaces for cultural and educational events.

Crowning the building will be a restaurant with a breathtaking panoramic view of Prague, accessible through the glass roof.

The entire project cost the investor a staggering CZK 4 billion.

Beyond the interior, the building’s facade will undergo a temporary transformation for one year. Two giant, mobile sculptures designed by renowned Czech artist David Černý will adorn the building’s exterior.

The two giant structures, standing several meters tall with a wingspan of around eight meters, merge the fuselages of Spitfire WWII aircrafts with the graceful wings of butterflies.

The art installation serves a dual purpose: celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Czech Republic’s accession to NATO and the 75th anniversary of the North Atlantic Alliance itself.

The sculptures had previously been criticized by the Czech National Heritage Institute (NPÚ), while the Club for Old Prague (Klub Za starou Prahu) called them kitsch. However, the butterflies were formally approved by Prague City Hall’s Department of Monument Care.

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* POLITICS:

Czechia will again propose restricting the movement of Russian diplomats in the Schengen area, Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský (Pirates, Greens) said in response to the arrest of two Russian agents in Germany on suspicion of espionage and planning attacks. Czechia has already proposed restricting the movement of Russian agents in the EU in the autumn of 2023.

* ENVIRONMENT:

The use of solar energy in Czechia has skyrocketed in the last five years, the Czech News Agency said on Sunday. While just over 3,400 new solar power systems were installed in 2019, last year that figure had reached nearly 83,000. Investments in this type of technology are also growing considerably, amounting to almost CZK 45 billion last year; five years ago the figure was less than CZK 1 billion.

* WEATHER:

It should be mainly overcast in Czechia on Monday, with an average high temperature of 7 degrees Celsius. Warmer temperatures are expected later in the next week.

* SPORT:

A female co-driver was killed in a Rally Šumava race in the Plzeň area on Saturday. Navigator Alena Krejčíková died later in hospital after injuries sustained in the opening stage of the rally, a local police spokesperson told the Czech News agency.

* POLITICS:

Andrej Babis, the former Czech PM and leader of the opposition ANO party, announced on Instagram yesterday that he and his wife Monika have separated after roughly 30 years together, including seven years of marriage. They have two children together – daughter Vivien and son Frederik. Babis is married for the second time; his first wife was Beata Adamovicova.

The American investment group Northwood Investors is selling the Four Seasons Hotel Prague, located near the Charles Bridge.

According to Hospodarske Noviny, citing three independent sources, Northwood, which has owned the hotel since 2014, is closest to finalizing a deal with Renáta Kellnerová.

While the purchase will be a personal investment by Kellnerová through her recently formed superholding Amalar, it will remain separate from the PPF Group.

Market estimates place the Four Seasons at a price tag of approximately CZK 3.7 billion (EUR 150 million). Northwood acquired the property a decade ago for nearly 80 million euros from the Irish investment group Avestus.

This sale coincides with a surge in premium hotel offerings on the market, including the Imperial and Sanssouci spa hotels in Karlovy Vary and the Trade Union-owned Imperial Hotel in Prague.

Consultancy Cushman & Wakefield reports that nine hotels were sold in the Czech Republic last year, with most investments concentrated in Prague and originating from abroad.

The Czech hotel industry experienced a significant rebound in occupancy rates in 2023, approaching pre-pandemic levels.

Nationwide occupancy reached 71%, a 7% decrease compared to 2019. Room rates, however, climbed by 10% year-on-year.

In Prague specifically, the average nightly rate witnessed a 20% increase to an average of €110.

Amalar Holding, established by the Kellner family last autumn, encompasses all their investments, including PPF.

Renáta Kellnerová sits on the board alongside her daughters, Anna, Lara, and Maria.

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British newspaper The Guardian sheds light on a concerning trend in Prague: a significant increase in homelessness.

Their video documentary investigates the factors driving this issue in the Czech capital, which holds the dubious distinction of having the highest number of homeless people in Central and Eastern Europe.

The documentary follows Karel, a former sex worker turned homeless person, as he guides the reporter through the city. Together, they visit locations frequented by Prague’s homeless population, including Karlovo náměstí and Wenceslas Square. Karel shares his experiences and sheds light on the city’s history as a haven for sex tourism, which continues to impact lives.

The rising cost of living – with inflation pushing people into financial distress – and the ease with which someone can find themselves homeless are highlighted. The documentary explores the vital work of NGOs like Pragulic, which offers guided walks to help homeless individuals reconnect with the city.

However, it raises the crucial question: can such initiatives alone solve the crisis?

The reporter delves deeper, visiting the Naděje NGO and their day center near the main train station. Here, social workers grapple with limited capacity, forcing them to turn away those in need.

Furthermore, the issue has a gendered dimension. The Jako doma center caters specifically to homeless women, many of whom have experienced violence or sexual assault.

Rising rent prices, fueled by tourism, foreign investors, and the war in Ukraine, are identified as key factors contributing to homelessness, which one social worker describes as “the tip of the iceberg.”

The documentary concludes by featuring Místní místním, an organization that maps out resources available to the homeless. The reporter reflects on the “perfect storm” of problems facing Prague: a flawed housing strategy, a cost-of-living crisis, and the commitment to supporting Ukrainian refugees.

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Virtual School Australia is a leading platform dedicated to fostering global empathy and empowering individuals through education and innovative conferences.

The mission is to inspire positive change and create a more empathetic world, through the Global Empathy Conferences. Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021, Virtual School Australia has been at the forefront of offering transformative Global Empathy Conferences annually.

Drawing from the success of past editions held in London, Adelaide, and Seoul, which attracted a diverse and enthusiastic global audience. The 6th
Global Empathy Conference is scheduled to take place at the esteemed Charles University in Prague, Czech Republic, on Saturday, May 4, 2024.

This prestigious event aims to bring together a diverse audience, including esteemed researchers, academics, writers, and classroom teachers from around the world. The theme of “Empathy in Action” underscores the conference’s mission to share invaluable insights, exemplary practices, and groundbreaking research in the field of empathy in action.

The 6th Global Empathy Conference at Charles University in Prague, which will be chaired by Dr Sharmila Roy, PhD, the Chair of the Educational Therapy certificate program at the University of California, Silicon Valley Extension, USA.

Conference Highlights:

Keynote Speakers: Renowned Professor Robin Banerjee will share his latest research findings on the social and emotional development of children and young people in educational settings. His insights will delve into the profound impact of empathy and kindness on fostering positive relationships, enhancing mental health, and promoting overall well-being within school communities. Additionally, Dr. Marcelo Staricoff, author of “The Joy of Not Knowing,” will explore the principles and philosophies that form the foundation of the Joy of Not Knowing approach to education. Dr. Staricoff will highlight how empathy can champion the cause for every individual, contributing to a more compassionate and inclusive educational landscape.

Global Perspectives: Local musicians will captivate the international audience, while speakers from diverse backgrounds will offer deep insights into empathy’s practical and business value. Attendees can expect to gain valuable models and strategies applicable
across various domains such as education, healthcare, business, and personal relationships.

International Collaboration: A notable collaboration between the University of California Santa Cruz Silicon Valley Department of Education and the Department of Education and Social Work at the University of Sussex will showcase the intersection of empathy across different cultural contexts. Students from two continents will share their experiences and insights, highlighting the universal relevance of empathy in shaping lives.

Participant Benefits: Registered attendees will receive

● An immersive experience featuring the GEC Programme,
● Free access to a plethora of Empathy in Action Resources,
● Special awards for participation and
● A certificate of Attendance
● The conference will culminate in a five-hour immersion in empathy practices facilitated by distinguished international speakers.

Date and Time: Saturday, May 4, from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm.

For more information and registration details, please visit the website or this link

The wait is over for fans of fresh beer and a unique brewery experience!

After a winter break, the Staropramen Brewery is reopening its doors to the public for the first “Taps Under the Chimney” event of 2024.

Taking place on Thursday, April 25th, at 5 pm, this popular event offers a chance to sample some exciting new brews straight from the source.

This year’s event kicks off with the debut of Staropramen’s improved Staropramen Extra Chmel and Staropramen Nealko (non-alcoholic) beers. Visitors can also enjoy last year’s successful addition, Staropramen 10.

But delicious beer isn’t the only thing on tap. Attendees can also expect tasty refreshments and live music to create a lively atmosphere.

In addition, for those blessed with good weather, a special treat awaits: the chance to climb to the gallery overlooking the cylindroconic tanks for breathtaking views of Prague.

The “Taps Under the Chimney” event is a beloved tradition that began in 2017. Recognizing that beer tastes best shared with friends and family, Staropramen opened its brewery for the first time, allowing visitors to gather under the iconic chimney and enjoy a pint in a unique setting.

The event’s success was immediate, and it’s become a recurring celebration held several times a year.

The event’s resilience speaks volumes. Even a global pandemic couldn’t stop “Taps Under the Chimney.” Beyond the social aspects, good beer, and lively atmosphere, these events often serve a purpose, whether it’s introducing new brews, commemorating a milestone, or even supporting a worthy cause.

• • Entrance for the public from Svornosti Street.
  • Location: Pivovary Staropramen, Nádražní, Prague 5-Smíchov.
  • Opening: 17:00
  • Free entry

Staropramen is the second-largest brewery in the Czech Republic. It was founded in 1869 and the brand name Staropramen, literally meaning “old spring”, was registered in 1911.

It is owned by Molson Coors and its products are exported to 37 countries, mostly in Europe and North America.

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This year, the Prague City Council approved a budget of over CZK 16 million for integration projects for foreigners.

“Foreigners and national minorities are a reality; it’s our responsibility to find integration solutions,” stated Bohuslav Svoboda, Prague’s mayor.

In 2021, an official agreement aimed at improving mutual coexistence between foreigners and Prague residents was signed. The municipality plans to support cultural, social, and educational events for foreigners until 2025, with additional updates.

Various applications focused on activities supporting foreign integration were submitted to the municipality. These emphasized language training, community work, educational activities, and cultural and social projects for foreigners.

A total of 92 projects were received, with 74 recommended for subsidization by the expert committee.

Future plans include programs to involve foreign children in school groups, Czech language courses, and cultural festival organization. The municipality will fund organizations aiding refugees from Ukraine.

“These initiatives promote diversity and cultural understanding, fostering an open and inclusive environment,” stated Jiří Pospíšil, Deputy Mayor of Culture (TOP 09).

The focus of these activities is on the Czech Republic’s multi-ethnic nature, allowing foreigners to partake in the dominant culture while sharing their traditions and values.

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During this spring, the City of Prague Forests (LHMP) will plant more than 89,000 tree seedlings around the city.

Two-thirds of the seedlings will be planted in the southeast of the capital near Dubč, where new stands will be established in two formerly non-forested areas.

The remaining third of the seedlings will be added to trees in existing forests.

Traditionally, oaks and other deciduous tree species suitable for the climatic conditions of Prague predominate in the plantations. Pupils of Prague schools are also involved in the work, helping to establish a forest for future generations.

Almost 64,000 seedlings will take root in two areas in the area of Lítožnice and the Říčanka Nature Park between the towns of Dubeč and Běchovice. In this area, the City has been planting repeatedly over the last few years, gradually turning the area into a mosaic of water bodies, meadows, orchards and forests.

The upcoming spring planting will target several key locations.

The Modřany Gully, impacted by bark beetle infestation, will receive over 3,000 new trees.

Cholupice will see nearly 4,000 seedlings planted, while the Satalická Obora grazing land will gain over 2,000.

Existing forests throughout the city will benefit from a diverse selection of native species, including 10,000 winter oak, 5,000 forest beech, and thousands more white fir, small-leaved lime, elms, hornbeams, and cherries planted in clearings.

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* PUBLIC TRANSPORT:

Prague’s transit authority has announced a tender with an estimated value of over CZK 80 billion for the purchase of driverless trains for the city’s C and D Metro lines, a spokesperson said on Thursday. The Prague Public Transport Company aims to select a supplier and sign a contract with them by October 2025. The trains should be delivered by 2029.

* MUSIC:

Semyon Bychkov will step down from his position as principal conductor of the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra in 2028. The 77-year-old Russian-born American has led the orchestra since 2018, when he replaced the late Jiří Bělohlávek and became the fourth foreign chief conductor of Czechia’s most important classical ensemble since 1989.

* WEATHER:

It should be mainly overcast with some rain in Czechia on Friday. An average high temperature of 8 degrees Celsius is expected. More grey skies are expected on the following days.

* ECONOMY:

Production of passenger cars in Czechia increased by 11.5 percent year-on-year to 394,443 vehicles in the first quarter of this year. This is the highest output ever recorded in the sector in the first three months of a year.

* POLITICS:

During his meeting with Prime Minister Petr Fiala at the White House on Monday, US President Joe Biden praised Czechia’s support for Ukraine, especially its efforts to secure ammunition from outside the EU for the invaded country, and stated that he considers it a great ally.

* BUSINESS:

Czech billionaire Daniel Křetínský is considering buying out Royal Mail, the British national postal service, Reuters and the Financial Times reported on Wednesday. Křetínský’s investment company confirmed to Reuters that it tried to buy International Distributions Services (IDS), Royal Mail’s parent company, earlier this month, but the offer was rejected.

* ECONOMY:

Year-on-year inflation in the European Union decreased from 2.8 percent in February to 2.6 percent in March, while in Czechia, the inflation rate stagnated at 2.2 percent, according to the latest Eurostat data. A year ago the inflation rate was 8.3 percent in the EU and 16.5 percent in Czechia.

* WEATHER:

Thursday is expected to be mostly overcast and rainy, although some parts of the country will see some sunshine. Daytime temperatures are expected to range between 5 and 10 degrees Celsius.

* LOCAL NEWS:

From May 1st, Czech Post is changing the operating hours at its branch on Jindřišská Street in Prague 1. The post office will no longer be open at night and on Sundays, and Saturday opening times will also be adjusted. Customers can visit the branch from Monday to Friday, between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m., and on Saturdays, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

* POLITICS:

During his meeting with Prime Minister Petr Fiala at the White House on Monday, US President Joe Biden praised Czechia’s support for Ukraine, especially its efforts to secure ammunition from outside the EU for the invaded country, and stated that he considers it a great ally.