Czech president condemns death threats against journalists and writers

Czech President Petr Pavel has condemned recent death threats against journalists and public figures, warning that nobody should have to fear for their life because of their work or opinions. His remarks follow threats against a Czech journalist and a prominent writer, prompting renewed concerns over press freedom and political rhetoric.

In a statement posted on X Monday, Pavel stressed that freedom of expression and the ability to ask difficult questions are fundamental to a democratic society, even when people disagree with what is published.

"I consider it unacceptable for anyone to have to fear for their life because of their work or opinions," Pavel wrote. He added that it was particularly serious when public officials encouraged or downplayed such threats, calling that behavior unworthy of their positions.

The president's comments follow reports that Karolina Brodníčková, a political journalist at Czech news website Novinky.cz, has received repeated anonymous threats, including explicit death threats.

According to Novinky.cz, the journalist has received threatening telephone calls since August. The situation escalated when an unidentified caller told her he intended to kill her. Police are investigating the case.

The threats have also prompted controversy involving SPD lawmaker Josef Nerušil, who commented on the situation by suggesting that Brodníčková should "taste her own medicine."

Nerušil subsequently told Novinky.cz that his comment was directed at another political commentator rather than the threats against the journalist.

Czech author Radka Denemarková has also reported receiving death threats following her speech at the opening ceremony of the Frankfurt Book Fair.

During the event, Denemarková criticized Culture Minister Oto Klempíř, including over his past cooperation with communist Czechoslovakia's secret police, the StB.

The writer told Deník N that she had subsequently received threats of death and torture.

The Czech branch of the International Press Institute (CZ IPI) expressed full support for Brodníčková, emphasizing that independent journalism is essential to a free society.

The organization warned that intimidation and threats can discourage journalists from reporting on important issues and restrict the public's access to information.

It specifically criticized Nerušil's remarks, arguing that public officials who trivialize death threats risk normalizing unacceptable behavior.

The organization also recalled a recent appeal signed by approximately 40 Czech media editors-in-chief, calling on politicians to reject violence, maintain respectful communication and protect access to information.

Prime Minister Andrej Babiš (ANO) responded to that appeal Monday with a counterstatement, urging journalists to avoid taking information out of context, manipulating public opinion and engaging in personal attacks.

Babiš maintained that criticism of politicians is legitimate but that media freedom must also involve accountability and adherence to journalistic standards.

Pavel, meanwhile, called on public officials to recognize the influence of their words and act responsibly when addressing threats against journalists and others expressing their views.