Czech news in brief for January 22: Wednesday's top headlines

Czech firms may move to US under Trump policies, Czech teacher stops armed student attack, and Czechia gets first traffic light 95 years ago.

Expats.cz Staff ČTK

Written by Expats.cz StaffČTK Published on 22.01.2025 07:21:00 (updated on 22.01.2025) Reading time: 3 minutes

business Jágr to sell majority stake in hockey team

Czech hockey legend Jaromír Jágr, owner of the Kladno Knights ice hockey team, has agreed to sell an 80 percent stake in the club to businessman Tomáš Drastil, according to a Czech media outlet. Both parties have signed a preliminary agreement but declined comment ahead of a press conference on Jan. 30. Drastil, who began negotiations in November, has pledged to maintain league hockey in Kladno. Jágr’s family has been managing the club for a long time and has been 100-percent owner since 2017.

society State passes new domestic violence bill

The Czech Chamber of Deputies approved a draft amendment defining domestic violence in the Civil Code, aiming to improve victim support and prevention. The measure now heads to the Senate and President for final approval. Human Rights Commissioner Klara Simackova Laurencikova praised the effort, noting it followed extensive negotiations. If enacted, the law would strengthen protections for domestic violence victims across the country.

administration Czechia to get first child's ombudsman

The Czech Chamber of Deputies approved a Children's Ombudsman role with 168 votes, aiming to enhance children's rights protection starting July. Czechia, one of four EU countries (along with Germany, Austria, and Portugal) lacking such a position, is moving closer to aligning with UN child rights mandates. The ombudsman will monitor rights compliance, educate, and represent children in extreme court cases. The draft now awaits Senate approval.

health Czech woman dies from malaria

An elderly woman from the Šumperk area died of malaria after visiting Zanzibar over Christmas, officials confirmed Wednesday. The woman, over 64, succumbed to the disease in a hospital upon returning to the Czech Republic. Health authorities noted she had not taken antimalarial medication during her two-week trip to the high-risk area. Details of the epidemiological investigation remain undisclosed, but officials urge precautions for travelers to endemic regions.

environment Illegal waste trucks will head to Germany

Five trucks carrying illegal waste from decommissioned aircraft and wind farms will leave Jiříkov (Ústí nad Labem) for Germany today, officials confirmed. The vehicles, stuck for two weeks due to snow, will be escorted to the border by customs. Czech authorities suspect the transport violated regulations. While the trucks depart, other waste remains on-site, with removal orders pending. Local authorities continue to monitor the situation.

Health Czech Health Ministry expected US WHO exit

The Czech Health Ministry anticipated the U.S. withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO) and expects financial strain on the organization, ministry spokesman Ondrej Jakob said Sunday. Experts warn the departure could weaken the WHO but may create opportunities for other countries. Despite concerns, the ministry believes the WHO can function without U.S. support. The U.S. contributes about USD 1 billion annually.

industry Czech firms may move to US under Trump policies

Czech manufacturers may consider relocating production to the U.S. due to lower energy costs and reduced bureaucracy under President Donald Trump, said Exporters' Association Vice-Chairman Otto Daněk. He warned that high energy prices and potential U.S. tariffs could hurt Czech industry, especially automotive exports. Daněk urged the EU to ease green policies to maintain competitiveness in key sectors like metallurgy and glassmaking.

Crime Czech teacher stops armed student attack

A seventh-grade student at Rudolfov elementary school near České Budějovice aimed a gun at his math teacher and classmates on Monday but failed to fire. The teacher disarmed the student, and police quickly detained him. Authorities praised her swift response, crediting school safety drills. No injuries were reported, and the investigation is ongoing.

Poll Czech's interest in Ukraine support drops

Interest in Ukraine’s conflict and support for Czechia's government actions toward Ukraine are declining, a CVVM poll shows. Only 43 percent of citizens followed the situation in late 2024, down from 60 percent in 2023. Support for government measures dropped to 36 percent, with 58 percent backing diplomatic pressure on Russia. Most Czechs still see the war as a security threat to Europe and the world.

history Prague's first traffic light debuted 95 years ago

The first automatic traffic light was installed on Wenceslas Square 95 years ago, replacing manual police control. Introduced after manually switched lights in 1927, the system faced criticism from drivers for unnecessary stops and timing issues. Today, most traffic lights operate dynamically, adjusting to traffic flow. Experts say artificial intelligence could further enhance traffic management in the future.

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