The Czech Ministry of Foreign Affairs plans to revive the activities of the Czech Center in Moscow, which has been closed since March 2022 after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Instead of reopening its doors physically, the institution will operate entirely online, focusing on promoting Czech culture, science, and the arts to a Russian audience.

Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský stressed that while Prague continues to firmly oppose the Kremlin’s aggression, cultural diplomacy should not be abandoned. “We are aware of the risks, but we believe culture—as a universal language—can keep open channels of dialogue even when others collapse,” Lipavský told iDNES.cz.

The Czech Centers network is a state-funded cultural organization operating since 1993. The planned relaunch, expected in the second half of 2025, will take place entirely in the digital sphere.

According to Jitka Pánek Jurková, Director General of the Czech Centers, the move is necessary to maintain cultural exchange under current conditions.

“Diplomacy today often unfolds in the virtual space. We want to create original online content, including interviews with personalities connected to both Czech and Russian culture, and share it primarily on platforms accessible to Russian audiences,” she explained.

Pánek Jurková added that the online model follows the example of other countries adapting their cultural diplomacy during periods of strained relations. She emphasized that even in times of conflict, cultural dialogue can bridge divisions: “It can reach like-minded people and keep the conversation alive where direct communication is almost impossible.”

The Global Czech Centers Network

The Czech Centers organize cultural events abroad, teach Czech language courses, and administer language exams.

Today, 26 centers function across four continents. New branches have recently been launched in Hanoi, Taipei, and Belgrade, while others, such as those in Athens and Rotterdam, have been closed.

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