Czech news in brief for May 17: Sunday's top morning headlines

WWII victims remembered in Terezín, Czech hockey team loses to Slovenia in World Cup, and more weekend headlines.

Expats.cz Staff ČTK

Written by Expats.cz StaffČTK Published on 17.05.2026 09:09:00 (updated on 17.05.2026) Reading time: 2 minutes

  • WWII victims remembered in Terezín
  • Firms expect more red tape from EET
  • Czech hockey team loses to Slovenia in World Cup
  • Praha–Prčice march draws over 23,000 hikers
  • Major closure hits Prague’s Plzeňská

WWII victims remembered in Terezín

A traditional ceremony honoring victims of Nazi persecution will take place today at the National Cemetery in Terezín on the Litoměřice region. Attendees including President Petr Pavel, diplomats, and scouts will pay tribute to the 81st anniversary of the end of WWII in Europe. The main speech will be delivered by Constitutional Court head Josef Baxa, followed by Holocaust survivor Michaela Vidláková.

Firms expect more red tape from EET

More than half of Czech small and medium-sized businesses expect the planned return of electronic sales registration (EET) to increase bureaucracy, according to a new survey. The government coalition wants to reintroduce the system from January 2027, arguing it will improve tax collection and create fairer business conditions. While some companies expect benefits such as greater digitalization and fewer cash payments, many smaller businesses remain skeptical about added administrative burdens.

Czech hockey team loses to Slovenia in World Cup

Czech ice hockey players suffered a surprise 3-2 overtime defeat to Slovenia at the Ice Hockey World Championship in Switzerland. After overturning an early deficit to lead 2-1, the Czechs conceded an equalizer in the third period and lost in overtime, marking their first-ever World Championship defeat to Slovenia. The Czechs now have one win and one loss after beating Denmark in their opener.

Praha–Prčice march draws over 23,000 hikers

More than 23,000 people took part in the 59th edition of the traditional Prague–Prčice long-distance march on Saturday. A total of 23,683 hikers started the routes, about 800 fewer than last year, with organizers citing colder and wetter weather as the main reason for the slight decline. Participants chose from 21 routes of varying length, including cycling and accessible options. The event dates back to 1966 and remains one of the Czech Republic’s largest mass hiking events.

Major closure hits Prague’s Plzeňská

A key section of Prague’s Plzeňská street near Anděl has fully closed to private cars as reconstruction work enters a new phase. Only public transport and construction vehicles can pass through the area until the end of summer. Drivers are being diverted through nearby streets, with delays currently averaging five to 10 minutes. City officials said feared traffic collapse has not occurred, though some motorists continue ignoring road closure signs and entering restricted zones.

More than half of Czech businesses expect the return of electronic sales reporting (EET) in 2027 to bring increased bureaucracy, while supporters argue it could help reduce tax evasion and improve fairness. What is your view on the system?

Positive; EET improves transparency and creates a fair business environment. 54 %
Negative; it will mainly increase bureaucracy and administrative burden. 29 %
No opinion / doesn't affect me 17 %
69 readers voted on this poll. Voting is open

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