In the upcoming year, the Czech Republic is poised for significant political, economic, and infrastructural transformations, as three crucial elections, substantial changes in the tax system, and the groundbreaking construction of a nuclear unit at Dukovany shape the nation’s trajectory.

One of the key highlights will be the European Parliament elections in June, where Czech voters will participate in shaping the future of the European Union. With 21 seats allocated for Czech Members of the European Parliament, this election will play a pivotal role in influencing the country’s standing in the EU. Following this, September will witness the Czech regional elections and the election of one-third of the Senate, serving as a crucial litmus test for political parties ahead of the 2025 general election.

Adding complexity to the political landscape is the government’s ambitious plan to revamp the tax system. With the majority of the proposed changes taking effect on New Year’s Day, the state budget projects a deficit of CZK 252 billion. The economic ramifications of these reforms will likely be a focal point of public discourse throughout the year.

On the infrastructural front, the decision on the construction tender for the nuclear unit at Dukovany is eagerly awaited. In October of the previous year, bids were submitted by prominent global companies, including Westinghouse, KHNP, and EDF. The government is set to finalize its decision in March, with the chosen company expected to sign contracts this year. The monumental project, costing at least CZK 160 billion, aims for completion by 2036.

Amidst these developments, the ongoing repercussions of the war in Ukraine persist, with almost 400,000 Ukrainian refugees still residing in the Czech Republic nearly two years after the Russian invasion. Additionally, the Constitutional Court remains a battleground for political contention, as the opposition challenges key government measures, asserting that the coalition infringes on the rights of opposition MPs.

Beyond the political sphere, 2024 holds commemorative events, including the anniversaries of the Czech Republic’s accession to NATO and the EU. Noteworthy cultural milestones include the opening of the Holocaust Memorial to the Roma and Sinti in Lety in February.

In the realm of sports, the Olympic Games in Paris and the European Championships in Germany beckon, providing moments of pride and anticipation for Czech athletes and football enthusiasts alike. Furthermore, Prague and Ostrava are set to host the world ice hockey championships in May, adding to the nation’s sporting fervor.

As the Czech Republic navigates this consequential year, the confluence of political, economic, and cultural events will undoubtedly shape the nation’s trajectory for years to come.

Article by Prague Forum