Czech lawmakers have approved sweeping changes that will simplify divorce and child custody proceedings, with the new rules set to take effect next year. The lower house of Parliament passed an amendment to the Civil Code on Wednesday, aiming to speed up divorces and make the process less burdensome for families with children. The proposal, backed by the Justice Ministry, would allow divorces and child custody arrangements to be handled together in a single court proceeding—provided the parents agree on the terms. One of the biggest changes is the elimination of the requirement to prove why a marriage failed, removing what many see as an outdated and often painful part of the process. Lawmakers also approved a new rule that formalizes parents’ responsibility to raise children without physical punishment or psychological harm. While this principle has long been recognized in Czech law, its explicit inclusion responds to recommendations from the European Committee on Social Rights. However, the Justice Ministry clarified that the amendment does not introduce new penalties for corporal punishment. An effort by MP Nina Nováková (KDU-ČSL) to remove this clause—on the grounds that it was redundant—did not pass. If the Senate signs off on the changes, couples with...
The Czech government on Wednesday condemned China for carrying out a cyberattack against its foreign ministry exposing thousands of unclassified emails. Czechia said that the Chinese state-sponsored group Advanced Persistent Threat 31 (APT31) targeted the foreign ministry from 2022 — the year the country held the rotating EU presidency — and was able to read unclassified emails sent between embassies and EU institutions. The Czech foreign minister, Jan Lipavský, said he would summon the Chinese ambassador immediately to explain the findings and tell him this would damage the countries’ bilateral relations. “With today’s move, we have exposed China, which has long been working to undermine our resilience and democracy,” Lipavský said. “Through cyberattacks, information manipulation, and propaganda, it interferes in our society — and we must defend ourselves against that.” It is the first time the Czech government has attributed a national cyberattack to a state-backed actor. An investigation conducted by the Security Information Service, Military Intelligence, Office for Foreign Relations and Information, and National Cyber and Information Security Agency (NUKIB) provided Czech authorities with a high degree of certainty about who was behind the targeting of the ministry. APT31 is run by China’s ministry of state security from the...
Craving fresh strawberries for dumplings, jam, or homemade cakes? Good news: the 2025 strawberry season has officially started in the Czech Republic, and many farms are already opening their fields to the public for self-picking. Due to an unusually cold May followed by drought conditions, the season is off to a slower start this year. Some farms have already opened their gates, while others are waiting for the berries to fully ripen in early June. Either way, now is the time to grab a basket and head out. Self-picking strawberries might take more effort than buying them in the store, but the reward is worth it: lower prices, fresher fruit, and unbeatable flavor. Here’s a regional breakdown of where you can go strawberry picking and what you can expect to pay: Prague Kunratice: Picking begins between June 5–10, priced at approx. 100 CZK/kg Central Bohemian Region Sedlčánky Strawberry Farm: Opens May 23, approx. 79 CZK/kg Bříství Orchards: Opens May 24, approx. 99 CZK/kg Starokolínské Strawberries: Opens May 24, approx. 80 CZK/kg Pardubice Region Drahoš Farm: Opens June 10 Hradec Králové Region Lhota pod Libčany Agrodružstvo: Expected to open around late May to early June Ústí Region Brozany Strawberry Farm: Opens...
Summer is on the doorstep in Czechia, and while temperatures are expected to rise, rain will be a steady companion for much of the week. According to forecasts from the Czech Hydrometeorological Institute, the final days of May will be marked by fluctuating weather, swinging between sunshine and storms. Monday suggests variable cloudiness, beginning with overcast skies and occasional clearing during the day. Showers will remain widespread, and thunderstorms may appear sporadically. The weather is expected to stabilize as the day progresses, with less precipitation and more sunshine. Night temperatures will hold between 8 and 12°C, and daytime highs will reach 17 to 22°C. Tuesday promises a calmer weather pattern, with skies mostly partly cloudy and only occasional showers, primarily in mountainous areas or the east. Wednesday begins with partly cloudy skies, but cloudiness will increase as the day unfolds. Expect evening showers or thunderstorms, especially from the northwest. Morning temperatures will sit between 8 and 12°C, with daytime highs climbing to 19 to 24°C. Expect a mostly rainy Thursday. Skies will be predominantly overcast, and showers or thunderstorms are likely across most regions. Morning lows will range from 9 to 14°C, with daily highs of 15 to 20°C. Looking...
In the quiet village of Držkov near Teplice, a large villa stands out. The estate includes a swimming pool, underground garages, and a full-time gardener. The property belongs to Hamid Abdullah Hussein al Ahmar, a Yemeni national who, according to U.S. intelligence agencies, is a major financial backer of the terrorist organization Hamas. Last October, the U.S. Treasury added Al Ahmar to its sanctions list. His Czech connections include not just the luxury villa but also a registered company in Prague. According to the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), part of the U.S. Department of the Treasury, Al Ahmar is considered one of Hamas’s primary financiers in Europe. The office described him as “a key member of Hamas’s formerly secret investment network,” which once controlled assets exceeding $500 million—a fund that helped Hamas leaders live in comfort well beyond the borders of Gaza. The Americans allege that since at least 2013, Al Ahmar has been associated with a sham charity known as the Al-Quds International Foundation, which the U.S. classified in 2012 as a Hamas-controlled entity. Washington’s decision to impose sanctions on Al Ahmar was based on findings that he “provided financial, material, or technological support to Hamas.” Several...
A new survey has revealed that the positive attitude of Czechs toward neighboring Slovakia has deteriorated significantly. The survey, conducted by the STEM research institute, found that for the first time since the 1990s, Slovakia has lost its position as the country viewed most positively by Czechs, falling to tenth place in the annual rankings. The survey, conducted between April 8 and 17 among 1,031 respondents, used a school-style grading system from one (best) to five (worst) to assess public sentiment toward foreign countries and international figures. Only 61% of respondents gave Slovakia top marks this year, down 10 percentage points from 2024. Negative evaluations, marked by grades of four or five, rose by six percentage points year-on-year. Politics influencing opinions According to STEM, the decline is due to recent political developments in Slovakia rather than a fundamental shift in Czech-Slovak relations. “The significant decrease in positive assessment, following the downward trend from the previous two years, is primarily related to the current political developments in the country, where relations with the Czech Republic have cooled after the fourth government (of Robert) Fico took office in the fall of 2023,” STEM analyst Silvia Petty said. She also pointed to a...
Czech breweries produced nearly 20.9 million hectoliters of beer last year—4.2% more than in 2023. The growth was driven by record exports and surging demand for non-alcoholic beer, which continues to reshape domestic consumption habits. While alcoholic beer consumption declined for the fourth consecutive year, dipping to 126 liters per person, breweries are seeing a different kind of boom. Compared to 2019—before the COVID-19 pandemic—Czech drinkers are consuming 16 liters less beer annually. Despite this trend, the brewing industry is showing signs of recovery after years of downturn, according to the Czech Breweries and Maltsters Association. Non-Alcoholic Beer Gains Ground In 2024, breweries produced 1.613 million hectoliters of non-alcoholic and flavored non-alcoholic beers—a 13.7% year-on-year increase. Compared to 2019, output has more than doubled, and non-alcoholic beer now makes up 10% of all beer sold on the Czech market. In response, breweries have broadened their offerings, introducing new flavors and non-alcoholic versions of popular styles, keeping up with evolving consumer preferences. Exports Reach Highest Level in 15 Years Czech beer exports also surged. Out of the total volume brewed, 5.9 million hectoliters were exported, the highest figure since 2009. That marks a 788,000-hectoliter increase over the previous year. The boost...
The 2025 festival season in Czechia is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in years, with international stars, iconic bands, and events planned across the country. Whether you’re into heavy metal, dance music, punk rock or pop, this summer’s line-up has something for everyone. Colours of Ostrava, taking place from July 16 to 19, will once again transform the city’s industrial heart into a musical playground. Punk legend Iggy Pop returns to the Czech Republic after 15 years, headlining alongside Sting and Shaggy, who will celebrate the 30th anniversary of the hit album Mr. Lover Lover. Also on the bill: U.S. chart-toppers The Chainsmokers, K-pop sensation DPR IAN, and French electronic duo Justice. A month earlier, Rock for People (June 11–15) in Hradec Králové will deliver an unforgettable line-up for rock and metal fans. Avenged Sevenfold, Slipknot, and punk pioneers Sex Pistols lead the charge. They’ll be joined by rock heavyweights Linkin Park and Guns N’ Roses, featuring original members Axl Rose and Slash. In the capital, Metronome Prague (June 19–21) will feature Canadian singer Alanis Morissette, known for hits like Ironic and Thank U. UK singer Rag’n’Bone Man, whose collaborations include Gorillaz and Calvin Harris, will...
It might be May, but the weather across Czechia is more reminiscent of early April. Over the coming days, cold and humid air from northeastern Europe will continue to affect the country, bringing with it chilly temperatures, rainfall, and even snow in the mountains—a far cry from typical spring expectations. Despite the cold start, a short-lived warm spell is expected midweek, with temperatures climbing to 25°C. Monday won’t bring much change. Expect cloudy to overcast skies, particularly over the northeastern half of the country, with occasional rain or showers. Precipitation should gradually diminish by evening. Overnight temperatures will fall to 4–8°C, and in parts of the southwest, it may drop to around 2°C, allowing for ground frost in some areas. Daytime highs will range from 13°C to 17°C, but northern and northeastern regions will likely remain cooler, peaking around 12°C. Winds from the northwest will ease to 2 to 6 m/s by the evening. On Tuesday, clear to partly cloudy skies will finally return for much of the country, although clouds and light rain may persist in the northeast. Daytime temperatures will rise significantly to 18°C to 22°C, offering a brief spring respite. Nights will remain chilly, dropping to 4–8°C,...
Czech Railways (České dráhy) has revealed its annual campaign for the summer of 2025, introducing the “Jízdenka na léto 2025” promotion. This initiative offers passengers the opportunity to purchase special unlimited tickets for all domestic routes of the carrier, valid for either one or two weeks, at favorable rates. Running from July 1st to August 31st, 2025, the promotion targets travelers intending to explore extensively within the Czech Republic during the summer holidays. Ticket prices remain consistent with the previous year: 1390 CZK for seven days and 1990 CZK for fourteen days. Reduced rates of 695 CZK and 995 CZK are applicable for children under 18, students under 26, and pensioners. These passes afford travelers unrestricted access to the Czech Railways network, spanning almost the entirety of the country. As the largest railway operator in the nation, Czech Railways facilitates unlimited journeys and transfers, excluding only the Pendolino high-speed trains, which necessitate an additional fee for reserving specific seats. Sales for these passes commence on Saturday, June 15th, available for purchase at station ticket counters and via the company’s official website. You must have a photo ID with you when you use the ticket. For those planning shorter trips, one-day...
The latest ranking by TasteAtlas has stirred debate among beer lovers worldwide. The popular food and travel platform has recently released its annual list of the 50 best beer styles in the world. The list highlights a wide range of traditional beer styles from across the world, many of which have deep local roots and long histories. The goal of the ranking, according to TasteAtlas, is to celebrate traditional beers, inspire pride in local craftsmanship, and spark curiosity for new tastes. This year’s list reaffirms Belgium’s dominance on the global beer scene, with Tripel, Dubbel, and Lambic taking the top three positions. But it’s not all about Belgium. Czechia’s Chodské pivo secured an impressive 4th place, further confirming the country’s legendary beer heritage. Known for its slightly bitter and bold flavor, Chodské beer once graced the tables of royal courts in both Prague and Bavaria. Germany’s Weissbier landed just behind, in 5th place. This classic Bavarian wheat beer is known for its foamy head and cloudy appearance, brewed from a minimum of 50% wheat malt. Top 10 Beer Styles According to TasteAtlas: Tripel (Ale) – Belgium Dubbel (Ale) – Belgium Lambic (Ale) – Belgium Chodské pivo – Czech Republic Weissbier...
Train operator Leo Express is giving away free beer on its long-distance train routes in Czechia, Slovakia, and Poland, sparking both attention and criticism. While the campaign is meant to encourage train travel over car use, some experts argue the promotion sends the wrong message about alcohol consumption. The “Free Beer” campaign offers adult passengers (aged 18 and up) a complimentary beer with their ticket — available until supplies last, likely for 10 to 14 days, according to company spokesperson Emil Sedlařík. The drinks are 0.33-liter bottles distributed during the journey. Leo Express claims the offer isn’t simply about drinking but about promoting responsible travel. The company argues that train passengers have the luxury of enjoying alcohol without the risks associated with driving. “One of the advantages of traveling by train is that you don’t have to drive, so you can enjoy a chilled beer without worries,” the company states. Similar marketing angles have been used in the past by Czech Railways, which once promoted car trains to Slovakia, and by RegioJet, which ran campaigns for its now-defunct routes to Croatia. On Facebook, Leo Express reinforced this message: “There are things that don’t belong behind the wheel, but you can...
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