Czech journalists warn of dangers of public media reform

Journalists at Czech Television and Czech Radio are pushing back against proposed reforms to public media funding, fearing the changes could increase political influence over editorial decisions. 

The government says the overhaul will modernize the system and cut costs; critics argue it risks weakening independent journalism. 

For many journalists and analysts, the debate reflects broader concerns about press freedom in Central Europe. 

A journalist-led initiative Veřejnoprávně ("Keep it public"), has emerged, and staff at Czech Television and Czech Radio have issued a strike alert. 

In recent weeks, students and media professionals have voiced their support for independent public media at protests in Prague and online.