Czech news in brief for June 30: Monday's top headlines

Jakub Hrůša will become chief conductor and music director of the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra in fall 2028, succeeding Semjon Byčkov, who is retiring after ten seasons. Hrůša, 43, currently principal guest conductor of the orchestra, will serve a five-year term. He is internationally acclaimed and will continue to lead the orchestra’s artistic growth. Hrůša also holds positions with the Bamberg Symphony and Royal Opera House, and has received multiple prestigious awards.

Starting July 1, drivers who endanger vehicles behind them while making a turn will face stricter penalties, including fines up to CZK 10,000 and the addition of four points on their driving record. Previously, such offenses only resulted in fines up to CZK 5,000 with no points. The new rules target dangerous situations where drivers fail to check for motorcycles or cars overtaking them, increasing safety by encouraging more careful turning and awareness of vulnerable road users.

President Petr Pavel is the frontrunner for re-election in the 2028 Czech presidential race, according to a STEM/MARK poll. With no serious rivals currently, Pavel enjoys strong voter support. The survey also found that voters want a representative, apolitical leader who cares about people. However, only 29 percent named a specific candidate, showing limited current engagement. About a quarter of respondents favor strengthening the presidential role, while over a third see it as important but not crucial.

Police in the Czech Republic accused 75,825 people and companies in 2024, a decrease of 3,831 from 2023, according to the Criminal Police and Investigation Service. The Moravia-Silesia Region had the highest number of accused at 10,313. Adults made up over 90% of suspects, with men representing more than three-quarters. The number of prosecuted minors and legal entities also declined compared to the previous year. Prosecutions in Prague dropped by 428 cases.

President Petr Pavel called on the Czech Republic to boost its self-defense efforts during Armed Forces Day, warning the country has relied too long on a “peace dividend.” At Prague’s Vítkov monument, Pavel emphasized that every NATO member must prioritize its own security. Defense Minister Jana Černochová noted the Czech army is undergoing its largest modernization ever. The ceremony honored fallen soldiers and marked the 1918 oath by Czechoslovak legionnaires, laying foundations for an independent military.

Czech food experts warned Monday of increased food poisoning risks due to high summer temperatures, with highs reaching 37 degrees Celsius by Thursday. The Food Chamber advised separating raw and cooked foods, using thermal bags for transport, and avoiding long storage of grilled meats. Improper hygiene and rapid temperature changes, such as damp eggs or bread, can promote bacterial growth. Ice cream vendors were also cautioned about sanitation. Meteorologists predict tropical conditions through midweek, increasing food safety concerns across the country.

Opposition ANO leads Czech polls with 31.9 percent, up slightly, while the Together coalition rose to 20.8 percent after a bitcoin scandal caused a brief dip, STEM reported. SPD dropped to 13 percent, while STAN gained to 10.6 percent and Pirates to 7.8 percent. The Enough! and Motorists parties remain below the 5 percent threshold. ANO would win 81 seats in parliament, followed by Together with 52 and SPD with 28, the model shows.

The Czech Republic will endure a tropical week, with temperatures peaking at 37°C Thursday before easing over the weekend, according to the Czech Hydrometeorological Institute. Clear skies will give way to possible thunderstorms by Friday. A cold front is expected to bring relief, with weekend highs between 21–26°C. Meteorologists warn of tropical nights, with some lows not dipping below 21°C.

Czech retailers, restaurateurs, and hotel operators say replacing Ukrainian workers would be difficult if refugees are forced to leave. Many sectors rely on Ukrainians for hard-to-fill jobs. With over 249,000 Ukrainians employed, firms warn that losing them would deepen labor shortages and raise costs. Business leaders call for easing employment rules for non-EU foreigners, saying legislative delays and anti-immigrant rhetoric are at odds with economic realities.

Sudden shifts from heat to air-conditioned spaces can cause stiff muscles or dry eyes, Czech physiotherapists warn. Poor airflow direction, especially on the neck or back, may lead to spinal issues. Doctors advise keeping indoor-outdoor temperature gaps small and avoiding direct cool air on the face. Office workers and drivers are urged to stretch often and regulate AC use to prevent discomfort and health problems.

Czech interest in insect-based foods is rising, but producers say growth is slowed by strict EU regulations and consumer hesitation. Companies like Crunchy, Sens Food, and WormUP cite legislative bottlenecks and misinformation as major obstacles. Only four insect species are currently approved for sale in the EU. Despite interest, sales remain limited, with insect snacks offered mostly in select stores and by curious consumers.