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The Czech cabinet approves a bill to replace licence fee funding for public broadcasters with direct state budget financing, triggering strikes and protests. Journalists, media groups, and citizens warn the move threatens editorial independence by making Czech TV and Czech Radio dependent on annual government allocations. Staff announce a 24-hour strike, while earlier protests in Prague draw over 200,000 people. Reporters Without Borders condemns the reform as dangerous for democracy and urges EU action. The bill still needs parliamentary approval and presidential signature before taking effect in 2027.
Monday, 15 June, 2026