Czech Government to Decide Next Steps for Ukrainian Refugees

The Czech government will decide early next week on the future status of Ukrainian refugees. A meeting scheduled for Monday, February 16, will address the launch of a new phase of five-year residence permits (ZDP) and the conditions attached to them, which could remain unchanged or be significantly revised.

About 15% of Social Media Ads in Czechia Found to Be Fraudulent

Analysts estimate that roughly one in seven advertisements on Czech social media is misleading or fraudulent. Many promote fake investments, services, or non-existent products. Experts warn that without tighter regulation, fraudulent ads are likely to become even more widespread.

Petr Fiala Withdraws from Presidential and Senate Races

Former prime minister and former ODS leader Petr Fiala has announced he will not run in upcoming presidential or Senate elections. He said he plans to focus on his work in the Chamber of Deputies and supporting democratic values. Fiala has also launched the Politické fórum think tank to promote ideas of freedom and democracy, particularly among young people.

Heineken Announces Global Job Cuts, Czech Breweries Affected

Heineken plans to cut between 5,000 and 6,000 jobs worldwide amid declining alcohol demand. The layoffs will also affect the Czech Republic, where the company operates the Starobrno, Krušovice, and Velké Březno breweries.

Blesk remains Czechia’s most read daily newspaper

The tabloid daily Blesk was the most widely read national newspaper in Czechia last year, with an average of 429,000 readers per issue. That was down by 61,000 compared to the previous year. It was followed by Mladá fronta Dnes with 367,000 readers and the sports daily Sport with 148,000, according to data released by the Czech Publishers’ Union.

Czechs lose 5:0 to Canada in Olympic opener

The Czech men’s ice hockey team opened their Olympic campaign in Milan with a 5:0 loss to Canada. Canadian forward Macklin Celebrini scored the first goal just six seconds before the end of the first period. Tournament favorites Canada extended their lead in the 27th minute through Mark Stone, before Bo Horvat raised the score to 3:0 minutes later with an impressive individual effort.