Thousands of people rally in Prague to protest a government plan to overhaul how Czech public broadcasters are funded, according to multiple reports. Protesters gather in the capital—at or near Czech public television offices—and call for safeguards to protect public media independence. Critics, including those involved in the media sector, argue the changes would increase political influence over Czech Television and Czech Radio and could reduce their resources.
Several outlets report that the plan, associated with the government led by Prime Minister Andrej Babiš, would shift public radio and television funding to the state budget starting next year instead of relying on fees paid by individuals, households and businesses. Deutsche Welle reports the proposal would result in a 15% funding cut and includes no guarantees of continued future funding.
The demonstrations also coincide with planned industrial action: the South China Morning Post reports that protesters show support for public media ahead of a warning strike by staff. Overall, all accounts describe large crowds condemning the funding overhaul on the grounds that it could weaken independence and budgets.
