Illiberal Czechia? Post-election Prospects for Democracy and Foreign Policy

Czechia will hold a potentially watershed parliamentary election on October 3–4 that will likely see the return to power of former Prime Minister Andrej Babiš and his populist ANO party in a coalition with radical-right or radical-left forces. Such an outcome could profoundly affect Czech democracy and foreign and security policy, including defense spending and support for Ukraine. Czechia’s partners should consequently prepare for a second government (after Hungary’s) in the EU Council with representation from the radical right, and heightened volatility and growing Euroskepticism in Prague.

This panel discussion, convened in the immediate aftermath of the election, will examine the potential implications of a Babiš comeback and different coalition scenarios. It will explore their impact on Czech foreign and security policy, the country’s approach toward Ukraine and Russia, and the broader state of democratic checks and balances, media freedom, and civil society in Czechia.

Please join us for the discussion by clicking on the registration button above. Details for accessing the event will be sent to registrants. Should you have any questions, please contact Dr. Dimitar Keranov at [email protected].

The German Marshall Fund of the United States (GMF) is a nonpartisan policy organization committed to the idea that the United States and Europe are stronger together.