Czech news in brief for October 19: Sunday's top morning headlines

Good morning, this is Jason with your Sunday news briefing. Here’s a quick rundown of the key stories making headlines in Czechia today. Read on to learn about local weather, business developments, economy, and more.

Seasonal models suggest this winter in Europe could be slightly colder than recent years, but snow amounts are expected below average. In Czechia, frosty mornings may be more frequent, though heavy snow cover is unlikely, with January offering the best chance of brief snow episodes.

Why it matters: Understanding these trends helps residents and authorities prepare for winter conditions, manage energy consumption, and anticipate impacts on transport, agriculture, and daily life despite limited snowfall.

The incoming Czech government plans to reintroduce electronic sales reporting (EET) from January 2027. Businesses accepting payments must report sales via apps or cash registers. The system, previously canceled, aims to curb tax evasion, simplify reporting, and could generate tens of billions of crowns for the state.

Why it matters: According to ANO, the winning party of this year's parliamentary elections, EET strengthens financial transparency, levels the playing field for businesses, and provides a critical tool for government revenue and oversight of the economy.

The Czech Judges Union urged lawmakers to amend rules so courts can fully use voice-to-text software and AI tools. Head Libor Vávra said transcription software would save thousands of hours and speed access to hearing records, while AI could summarize and analyse texts. He also called for unified rules on recording hearings across criminal, civil, and administrative cases.

Why it matters: Adopting AI and transcription tools could make Czech courts more efficient, reduce delays, and improve transparency. Updating procedural rules would allow technology to support judges and staff without compromising accuracy or legal standards.

Czech teachers will see a 7 percent salary increase from January, while pedagogical assistants may gain CZK 2,000. Teachers’ salaries will rise CZK 1,880–3,800, and university staff CZK 2,460–4,320, reflecting experience and duties. The changes aim to align pay with 130% of the national average wage.

Why it matters: Higher pay seeks to attract and retain qualified educators, reduce disparities in the public sector, and support education quality across schools and universities.

A full house at Brno City Theatre gave a standing ovation before the world premiere of Winton, a new musical about Sir Nicholas Winton, who rescued 669 mostly Jewish children from Czechoslovakia before WWII. Among the audience were three of the rescued “Winton’s children” and their families. The production, directed by Petr Gazdík, follows Winton’s efforts to secure British visas and safe passage for the children.

Why it matters: The musical not only celebrates Winton’s extraordinary moral courage but also passes his legacy to new generations, reminding audiences of the enduring value of compassion and ethical action in the face of injustice.