Today's Stories from Czechia I February 23, 2026
Prague Morning
Uber to Share Monthly Reports with Tax Authorities
Uber will begin transferring monthly data on its operations to Czech tax authorities. Previously, officials obtained information from digital platforms mainly through one-off requests. The new system introduces regular, automatic data sharing. Experts say the arrangement could become a model for other digital platforms operating in the Czech Republic.
Medical Boost: More Ukrainian Doctors Working in Czechia
The number of Ukrainian medical professionals with recognized qualifications in the Czech Republic has risen by about 55% since the start of the war. By the end of last year, 1,098 Ukrainian doctors, 242 dentists, more than 1,000 general practitioners, and 454 nurses were working in the country. Most are employed in Prague, followed by the Central Bohemian, Ústí nad Labem, and Moravian-Silesian regions. In some Prague hospitals, Ukrainians account for up to 7% of staff.
Czechs Exceed Healthy BMI Average
The average body mass index (BMI) of Czech residents over 16 has increased to 26.4, above the recommended medical norm of 25. Nearly one-third of women and 45% of men are overweight. Seventy percent of men eat meat daily, while only about 40% consume fruit and vegetables each day. Around a quarter of adults drink alcohol daily, and a similar share smoke every day.
70% of Teens Say Alcohol Is Within Reach
Seventy percent of Czech teenagers under 18 say they can easily obtain alcohol and cigarettes. One in five minors drinks alcohol several times a month, and about 4% consume it several times a week or daily, although overall youth drinking is gradually declining. Among students over 18, alcohol use is more frequent: 2% drink almost daily, 10% several times a week, and 9% report drinking to the point of illness at least once a month.
Czech-Co-Produced Film Wins Top Documentary Prize
The film “Kdyby se holubi proměnili ve zlato,” made with Czech participation, won the main prize in the documentary section at the Berlin International Film Festival and has been automatically shortlisted for an Oscar. Directed by Pepa Lubojacký and shot on a mobile phone, the film follows her brother and cousins as they face homelessness and addiction. The creators say the project aimed to give a voice to people often overlooked by society.
RegioJet Deploys New Setra Buses on Domestic Routes
RegioJet is introducing German-made Setra buses, previously used mainly on international routes, to domestic lines across the Czech Republic. Passengers can expect more legroom, fully adjustable seats, an onboard multimedia system with films and games, and a coffee machine. The buses will operate on routes including Prague–Jihlava–Brno, Prague–Český Krumlov, Prague–Karlovy Vary, and Brno–Ostrava.
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