Czech Coalition Votes to End 205 Crown TV Fee

The Czech governing coalition advanced a major overhaul of public media funding on Saturday, dismissing warnings that the shift could weaken broadcaster independence. The move follows a rare overnight parliamentary session that extended into the early hours of the day.

The legislation eliminates the 205 crown ($9.45) household broadcasting fee. Instead of direct payments from homes, the state budget will cover the costs. The proposal also reduces funding for Czech Television and Czech Radio by approximately 15 percent. Nominal funding levels would remain fixed for several years following the initial cut.

Prime Minister Andrej Babis, a billionaire populist leading the three-party government, promised to abolish the fee before taking office in December 2025. His administration includes the far-right SPD party, which has frequently criticized media coverage of its policies. Babis argues the new model is fairer to lower-income households and forces broadcasters to operate with greater efficiency.

In a Facebook post late on Friday, Babis rejected claims that the changes threaten press freedom. "There is no war for independent media," he wrote. "There is no fight for democracy and no nationalisation of media is being prepared."

Opposition parties compared the reforms to measures implemented by former Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban. Employees at the public broadcasters have expressed alarm, citing a June strike where they argued that state budget linkage exposes them to government pressure. Public media remain highly trusted sources in the country, with Czech Television ranking as the most-watched broadcaster across multiple age groups.

The bill now moves to committee for further debate. A civic group has organized a public demonstration for Sunday. Journalists and other staff at the broadcasters have announced a strike for November 3.