Czech news in brief for May 28: Wednesday's top headlines

Nearly 61,000 Czech households have newly registered to pay the radio fee in the three weeks since a media law amendment took effect, Czech Radio CEO René Zavoral said Wednesday. The change raises the monthly fee to CZK 55 and expands liability to those with internet-capable devices. Czech Radio, which now has 2.3 million payers via Czech Post and 694,000 direct payers, launched a broad campaign to inform the public, sharply boosting traffic to its website.

Czech officials warned Wednesday of a shortage of mental health facilities, specialists, and beds for children. At a press conference, representatives from three ministries urged better use of state funds, which remain available for new buildings, training, and expanded care. In 2023, 60,000 youths received outpatient treatment and 2,600 were hospitalized. One in five Czechs has faced mental illness, but fewer than half received professional care, highlighting the urgent need for expanded mental health services.

Czech drug policy experts warn of a sharp rise in digital addiction among children, citing algorithm-driven platforms as a key factor. Think tank Rational Addiction Policy called for regulation, noting some children spend up to 10 hours online daily. Head Jindřich Vobořil compared the impact to drug addiction. A 2024 EU survey found 33 percent of Czech 16-year-olds use social media over four hours daily, with rising mental health issues and online gambling risks.

Charles University has been appointed the lead coordinator of the European Space Agency’s Earth Observation Training Academy, an international initiative aimed at enhancing satellite-based remote sensing education across Europe. The university's Faculty of Science will oversee the development of training programs, educational materials, and collaborative events, including seminars and workshops at Prague’s Hybernska Campus.

Czech rail operator RegioJet boosted its 2023 train transport revenue to CZK 4.1 billion crowns, up CZK 700 million year-on-year, and raised profit by CZK 58 million to CZK 287 million. Passenger numbers climbed to 9 million, driven by increased international travel. The company plans to invest CZK 8 billion in nearly 50 new low-floor train sets. Owner Radim Jančura said the strong results will support future growth, including new routes and bids for more market share.

The Czech government on Wednesday accused China of a prolonged cyberattack on its Foreign Ministry's communications network. The campaign, active since 2022, targeted critical infrastructure and was linked to APT31, a group tied to China’s intelligence service. Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský summoned Chinese Ambassador Feng Biao and introduced new security measures. Czech intelligence agencies investigated and attributed the breach with high confidence. Beijing has not publicly responded to the allegations.

A warm front from Spain will push Czech Republic temperatures up to 31°C by Sunday, meteorologists said. The abrupt rise follows frosty mornings earlier in the week. High humidity and possible weekend thunderstorms may stress cardiac and circulatory patients. Similar heat is forecast across Europe, with Spain expecting 40°C and Central Europe seeing widespread highs over 30°C.

Czech EU Affairs Minister Martin Dvořák criticized Hungary for benefiting from EU membership while flouting its rules. During an EU hearing on Hungary’s democratic backsliding, Dvořák noted growing frustration but limited momentum for sanctioning Hungary via Article 7. He cited persistent rule-of-law violations, including media repression and anti-LGBTQ+ laws. Hungary remains at odds with Brussels and faces restricted EU funding.

Marking 83 years since Operation Anthropoid, Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský said unity and moral resolve remain vital against modern threats. At an event co-hosted with the British Embassy, he highlighted Czech-British wartime solidarity and drew parallels to today’s global struggles, including support for Ukraine. The 1942 assassination of Nazi official Reinhard Heydrich remains a symbol of resistance and international cooperation.

Czech car production fell 7.6 percent to 490,868 units through April, amid cooling EU demand, the Automotive Industry Association said. Electric and hybrid vehicle output surged 133 percent, hitting nearly 92,200 units—19 percent of total output. Škoda Auto led production but saw a 4.2 percent decline overall. EV models like the Škoda Elroq topped European sales. Bus output rose 14 percent, while motorcycles dropped.

Climate group The Last Generation has filed a lawsuit against Prague for allegedly failing to meet climate obligations. The group demands the city update its strategic plan and create action plans with clear targets. The Municipal Court confirmed receipt. The group cites missed EU and national goals and calls for systemic reform to prioritize sustainability over private interests.