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Summary for: Czech news in brief for February 5: Thursday's top morning headlines
Babiš government survives confidence vote
Political sparring advances
Babiš government survives confidence vote
The coalition cabinet led by Prime Minister Andrej Babiš has retained the confidence of the Chamber of Deputies following a lengthy parliamentary session. Opponents failed to secure the necessary votes to topple the government, which faced scrutiny over policy decisions and internal coalition tensions. The successful defense allows the administration to continue its legislative agenda. The outcome provides temporary political stability despite ongoing pressure from opposition parties and public demonstrations.
End of an era
Black coal mining officially ends in Czechia
An era of industrial history concluded as miners processed the last symbolic cart of coal at the ČSM Mine in the Moravian-Silesian Region. A ceremonial procession and mass in Ostrava marked the definitive end of black coal extraction in the Czech Republic after more than 250 years. The closure signals a major shift toward greener energy. Authorities are now focusing on regional restructuring and supporting affected workers through the transition.
Historic flight connection
Prague becomes Starlux’s first European destination
Taiwan-based STARLUX Airlines will launch a direct long-haul route between Prague and Taipei starting Aug. 1. The service will initially operate three times weekly, increasing to four flights per week in October. Using Airbus A350-900 aircraft, the carrier expects to transport over 95,000 passengers in its first year. The move marks Prague as the airline's first European gateway, enhancing tourism and business links between the Czech Republic and Taiwan.
Essential streaming
Adaption of acclaimed Czech novel now on HBO Max
A new film adaptation of Kateřina Tučková’s acclaimed novel The Expulsion of Gerta Schnirch is now available for streaming on HBO Max. The historical drama, which explores the forced removal of Brno’s German population following World War II, is currently accessible for subscribers. The release provides a cinematic look at a sensitive chapter of Czech history. For a limited time, certain premium service users can access the title through specific promotional offers.
Name 'Czeching' the Olympics
Czech TV to change female naming conventions
Czech Television (ČT) has announced it will adjust its rules regarding the linguistic "inflection" of foreign female surnames. Following consultations with the Czech Language Institute, the public broadcaster will more consistently apply the "-ová" suffix to foreign names in its coverage. The change, coming ahead of the 2026 Winter Olympics, aims to ensure grammatical clarity and consistency. The decision follows viewer feedback regarding the confusing mix of original and inflected name forms in previous broadcasts.
