Security Tightened in Czechia Amid Tensions Around Iran

The Czech Republic will strengthen security measures following developments surrounding Iran. Prime Minister Andrej Babiš said after a meeting of the Security Council that patrols will be increased in cities and at sites requiring special protection, including selected embassies and institutions. He added that there are currently no signs of a direct threat to the country.

New Archbishop for Prague Meets the Pope

The future archbishop of Prague, Stanislav Příbil, was received at the Vatican by Pope Leo XIV after his appointment in February. Příbil will replace Jan Graubner, who stepped down because of age. The installation ceremony is expected on April 25 at St. Vitus Cathedral.

Czechia Faces Construction Workforce Shortage in Housing Push

The government’s plan to build 50,000 apartments annually faces a serious shortage of construction workers in the Czech Republic. Around 30,000 apartments are currently completed each year. Experts warn that without industry preparation, expanding this volume will be difficult. Companies are already missing masons, carpenters, and project managers, and the sector could lack up to 74,000 workers by 2030.

Prague Shifts Tourism Strategy Toward Higher-Spending Visitors

Prague City Tourism wants to focus on attracting visitors interested in history and culture rather than mass low-cost tourism. Discussions include raising the tourist accommodation tax from 50 to 200 crowns per night, which could generate more than three billion crowns annually to finance projects such as the planned Vltava Philharmonic. Restrictions on short-term rental platforms such as Airbnb are also being considered.

Suzanne Vega to perform in Prague in July

US singer Suzanne Vega is due to perform at Prague’s Archa+ venue on July 15 this year, the organisers announced on Tuesday. The performer, who has appeared in Czechia several times, is expected to play hits such as Tom’s Diner as well as tracks from her latest LP, Flying with Angels.