Photo: Zuzana Jarolímková, iROZHLAS.cz
More than 360 people took part in the annual Polar Bear Dip in the Vltava River near Prague’s National Theatre. The temperature of the water was 4.3 degrees Celsius, the temperature of the air was -3.5 degrees. The tradition of winter swimming was established in 1923 by Prague hardy-man Alfréd Nikodém who propagated a healthy lifestyle.
See more here.
Photo: Paul-Henri Perrain, Radio Prague International
With intertwined Soviet and Czechoslovak flags, inscriptions in Cyrillic, cosmonauts, and a portrait of Pushkin, Prague’s Anděl metro station on line B is a trove of artistic and historical curiosities.
Tomáš Nigrin, Social Sciences Professor at Charles University and a specialist in the history of Czech railways, takes us on a tour of Smíchov’s Anděl metro station, originally built to celebrate the friendship between Czechoslovakia and the Soviet Union.
See more here.
Illustrative photo: brendageisse, Pixabay, Pixabay License
Czechia has long struggled with one of the lowest shares of female researchers in the EU, and a recent report from the Czech Academy of Science’s Centre for Gender and Science has revealed that the country now ranks last in this regard. I discussed the key findings with the centre’s director, Marcela Linková:
“In the Czech Republic, we have approximately 49,500 employees in research and innovation.
See more here.
Author: Ruth Fraňková
Photo: Hana Řeháková, Radio Prague International
A unique nativity scene is currently on display in the Prague district of Žižkov. Alongside the traditional Biblical figures, it features notable Žižkov personalities, including Jaroslav Hašek, the celebrated author of Švejk, and Jára Cimrman, a beloved fictional character. Each year, a new figure is added, keeping the display fresh and connected to Žižkov’s history.
The Žižkov nativity scene, showcased at the information centre on Jiřího z Poděbrad Square, was conceived by the Prague 3 Town Hall around a decade ago.
See more here.
Author: Ruth Fraňková
Photo: Paul-Henri Perrain, Radio Prague International
In this episode of our Prague metro series, we take you on a tour of Můstek metro station accompanied by Prague City Tourism guide Martin Karlík. The journey includes unexpected archaeological discoveries, a former underground passagway, deliberately chosen colours, a murdered duke, and a renamed horse market!
Můstek is one of the most iconic stations on the Prague metro system.
See more here.
Photo: e-Sbírky, National Museum, CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 DEED
“Where my home is” – the future Czech national anthem – was first performed at the Estates Theatre in Prague on 21 December 1834, in a play called Fidlovačka. The text by Josef Kajetán Tyl and the melody by František Škroup formed a harmonious whole and the song quickly gained popularity.
When Josef Kajetán Tyl wrote his new comedy Fidlovačka (or No Anger, No Brawl), he had high hopes of success.
See more here.
On the occasion of the National Day of the National Day of the State of Qatar, H.E. Mr. Nasser Ibrahim M. H. ALLENQAWI – Ambassador of the State of Qatar, and his spouse, Mrs. Bedour AlHazzaa hosted a reception at the beautiful Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Prague.
Mr. Jiří Kozák – First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic, was the honored guest.
Watch the video with the speeches of H.E. Mr. Nasser Ibrahim M. H. ALLENQAWI – the Ambassador of the state of Qatar to the Czech Republic ( translation to English and Czech on the screen ), and of Mr. Jiří Kozák – First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic.
And a short video about the State of Qatar.
يوم وطني سعيد لدولة قطر (yawm wataniun saeid lidawlat Qatar)
Happy National Day, State of Qatar
On the occasion of the coming jubilee year of M. K. Ciurlionis and the year of Czech Music, The Ambassador of the Republic of Lithuania to the Czech Republic H.E. Mr. Rolandas KAČINSKAS organized a concert at the Czech Museum of Music in Prague.
Watch the speech of the Ambassador of the Republic of Lithuania to the Czech Republic H.E. Mr. Rolandas KAČINSKAS
At the program – Vilnius University Chamber Orchestra, conductor Modestas Jankūnas. Compositions by Mikalojus Konstantinas Čiurlionis
Leoš Janáček and Antonín Dvořák.
Next year marks an extraordinary anniversary – 150 years since the birth of Lithuanian composer and artist Mikalojus Konstantinas Ciurlionis.
M.K. Ciurlionis is considered the most important Lithuanian artist of all time; his personality combines great talent, strong imagination, passion for knowledge, and, of course, Lithuanian melancholy.
In 2024, the Czech Republic is celebrating the year of Czech Music, so it is symbolic that they will be passing on the baton to the jubilee year of Ciurlionis.
The Vilnius University ( Lithuania) Chamber Orchestra has been bringing together young people studying at the university for 45 years and has performed more than 800 concerts in Lithuania and abroad during its existence. In 2017, it was World Orchestra Festival in Vienna and received a gold prize and a special honorary diploma.
Since 2019, the artistic director and conductor of the orchestra is Modestas Jankunas.
Awards together with those who awarded the awards. From left: head of marketing at Bidfood Czech Republic Jan Kratina, primate breeder Pavel Vodehnal, Remobil project manager Jiří Šmejkal, mammal breeder Pavla Hanzlíková, son of colonel gšt. Milana Laniak Marek Laniak, breeder of sea lions and penguins Helena Rosypalová and director of the Prague Zoo Miroslav Bobek. Photo by Petr Hamerník, Prague Zoo
The Prague Zoo awarded the Richard Award to its supporters and supporters. This happened during the traditional meeting of the sponsors of the Prague Zoo and the adoptive parents of its animals.
Great Richard was received by colonel gšt. Armády CR Milan Laniak, Little Richard the company Remobil and Divoké Richard the firm Bidfood Czech Republic. The program also included the announcement of the results of the Fotím competition at the Prague Zoo, a discussion with the Trojans, a musical performance, and special sea lion training.
“It is a pleasure and an honor for me to meet supporters of our zoo from various fields every year. It is not just a crucial help, as was the case this year, for example, with the first-ever transport of Převalský’s horses to Kazakhstan, but also seemingly small support. Every penny and every good idea counts. We all create the zoo together,” said the director of the Prague Zoo, Miroslav Bobek, in his speech.
The Prague Zoo awarded the Velký Richard prize to the deputy commander of the 24th Air Transport Base Prague-Kbely, colonel gšt. Army of the Czech Republic to Milan Laniak. The award, which was accepted on the spot by his son Marek Laniak, was given to him for his long-term cooperation on the Return of Wild Horses project. This was enhanced this year by the first ever transport of Převalský’s horses by CASA military aircraft to Kazakhstan.
Little Richard was received by the company Remobil for the project of collecting unnecessary mobile phones. African ecosystems, which are inhabited by critically endangered gorillas and nutcrackers, face the extraction of precious metals, which are used, among other things, to make mobile phones. Their recycling thus indirectly contributes to the protection of endangered species. From 2023, the Prague Zoo cooperates with Remobile not only on the collection of phones, but also regularly on educational events in its premises. Project manager Jiří Šmejkal accepted the award.
Divoký Richard was awarded by Bidfood Czech Republic for significant support of the We help them survive project and long-term cooperation with the Prague Zoo. For example, the company supported the reconstruction of the reintroduction center for Převalský horses in Alibi in central Kazakhstan, which was devastated by spring floods. Jan Kratina, head of marketing, received the award for Bidfood.
The release of Převalský’s horses in the Golden Steppe in central Kazakhstan at the beginning of June this year. It was for the support of the Return of Wild Horses project that the Prague Zoo awarded the Big Richard and the Wild Richard awards today. Photo by Miroslav Bobek, Prague Zoo
Along with the director of the Prague Zoo, Miroslav Bobek, the Richard prizes were also presented by breeders of those animals that are the most popular among adoptive parents and sponsors – e.g. the Humboldt penguin, the osprey or the lowland gorilla. After all, visitors will find a graphic showing the popularity of animals according to this scale pasted on the Information Center at the main entrance. It is the so-called wordcloud, i.e. the larger the type of animal shown, the more popular that animal is among patrons.
The entire event was accompanied by energetic live music performed by the City Police Dixie Band. More than two thousand people arrived at the Prague Zoo today, who did not miss a special commented performance and training of South African sea lions.
The Little Richard award went to Remobil, whose initiative contributes to the protection of endangered animal species in African rainforests. Pictured is a critically endangered eastern gorilla in the Congolese Kahuzi-Biega National Park, where Prague Zoo has been involved in the We help them survive project for many years. Photo by Miroslav Bobek, Prague Zoo
The new charity calendar for 2025 with illustrated portraits of Olga and Václav Havel is ready.
The Committee of Good Will – Olga Havel Foundation published a unique calendar with illustrated portraits of Olga and Václav Havel.
Proceeds from the calendar sale will be used to purchase medical aids for people with disabilities.
The calendar was illustrated by young artist Adéla Marie Jirků, who was inspired by the photographs of prominent photographers Bohdan Holomíček and Ondřej Němec.
The official launch of the calendar took place in October at the Václav Havel Library.
Monika Granja, director of the Foundation, photographer Ondřej Němec and Anna Freimanová, editor of the Václav Havel Library, a close friend of Olga, acted as godparents.
On 8 October 2024, President Petr Pavel received the calendar at Prague Castle from the representatives of the Olga Havel Foundation.
You can order the calendar online.
The Price of the calendar is 700 CZK as a donation to Good Will – Olga Havel Foundation
Photos © Anna Šolcová
Moja was born on December 13, 2004 to female Kijiva and male Richard. It was the first offspring for both of them and at the same time Moja was the first gorilla born in Czech or Slovak zoos. Photo by Miroslav Bobek, Prague Zoo
The famous female gorilla Moja celebrated her 20th birthday a little early tomorrow in Spain. Representatives of the Prague Zoo together with representatives of the Cabárceno Zoo presented her with a special gift – a puzzle filled with treats. The story of the first-born Czech gorilla will also be told by a photo exhibition, the opening will take place in Prague’s Dja Reserve on Saturday from 11 a.m.
“Moja has long since become a legend,” says the director of the Prague Zoo, Miroslav Bobek. “She is the first gorilla born in the Prague Zoo, who gained immense popularity among the public and became the protagonist of the extremely successful ‘slightly different reality show’ Odhalení. Even though she has lived in Cabárcen for many years, people have not forgotten her. We are therefore very happy that Moja’s story continues in our zoo through her daughter Duni and from this year also her granddaughter Mobi. And for me personally, it is very important that Moja i.e. through Gorilla Tales, which have been distributed in tens of thousands of copies to children in Central Africa, it helps protect gorillas living in the wild.”
Moja with the puzzle brought to Spain by the Prague Zoo team. Photo by Miroslav Bobek, Prague Zoo
Moja received complex enrichment with rotating wooden plates from the Prague Zoo team. They hid fruits and nuts spread over several levels.
“In November 2011, we took a seven-year-old adolescent girl here to Spain. We now follow an adult gorilla who has raised his daughter Duni and passed on many of his truly exceptional qualities and skills to her. Only because of this, Duni is now skilled and savvy in raising Moja’s granddaughter Mobi in Prague,” says Martin Vojáček, chief primate keeper of the Prague Zoo.
Rotating wooden boards hid dried fruits and nuts. Moja coped with the enrichment without any problems and easily reached the treats. Photo by Miroslav Bobek, Prague Zoo
The words of her current keeper in Cabárcen testify to Moji’s extraordinary character and, above all, her intelligence: “She is a very bright and perceptive gorilla, she is certainly the smartest of the group. I usually say that she is smarter than me because she is able to find tools in things that she uses to get what she wants, regardless of the other gorillas,” says Lucía Gandarillas Chicote, who takes care of the lowland gorillas in a natural park near Santander and other primates.
Moja lives in the exhibit and extensive paddock there, along with females Chelewa and Gwet, Chelewa’s six-year-old son Kibwe and male silverback Nicky. She is also accompanied by a group of Brazz cats. Currently, Moja does not have permission to conceive again from the coordinator of the European Breeding Program (EEP), because she is already genetically significantly represented in European breeding.
A group of congratulators at the lowland gorilla exhibit in the Cabárceno Zoo together with a photobook about Duni’s life in Prague, which representatives of the Prague Zoo handed over to their Spanish colleagues. From left: Inés Mier Maza, CEO of CANTUR, which also includes the zoo in Cabárceno, Míchel Valdés Ruiz, director of the aforementioned zoo Parque de La Naturaleza de Cabárceno, Miroslav Bobek, director of the Prague Zoo in the middle, then chief zoologist there Beatriz Gallego Aldama and chief Prague Zoo primate keeper Martin Vojáček. Photo by David Broda, Prague Zoo
Photo: Viktor Daněk, Czech Radio
More than two dozen Czech Centres on four continents represent a shop window for Czech culture around the world. But what more can the country do to boost its international image? And how does the network decide where to open, or close, branches? I discussed those questions, and way more, with the director of the Czech Centres, Jitka Pánek Jurková, who took up the post a year ago this month, at the organisation’s headquarters on Prague’s Wenceslas Square.
What led you to the field you work in today?.
See more here.
Author: Ian Willoughby
Photo: Patrik Uhlíř, ČTK
Wooden, mechanical nativity scenes, mostly from private collectors, are on display at Rosice Castle in the Brno region until the end of December. This year, for the first time, an outdoor nativity scene is installed in the courtyard.
See more here.
Photo: Barbora Navrátilová, Radio Prague International
Let us take you on a culinary tour of Czech Christmas, by introducing the world of ‘cukroví’ – traditional sweet treats that families in Czechia bake every year, and are for many Czechs the very best taste of Christmas.
See more here.
Originally from Hong Kong, a series of events brought Chun Kong Mak to Brno, via Germany. He shares the story of his life, the reasons why he enjoys life in Czechia, and his achievements in ice swimming.
See more here.
Photo: RM Sotheby’s
A unique racing car from the early 1900s, built by Laurin & Klement—the company that later became Škoda—is set to be auctioned off in Miami next year. The Type S2 Sportswagen, with its groundbreaking design, has been preserved in its original, unrestored condition, making it a rare find for collectors.
The Laurin & Klement Type S2 Sportswagen, set to go under the hammer in February at an RM Sotheby’s event, was commissioned by Baron Leo Haan of Graz, Austria, a well-known racer of the era.
See more here.
Author: Ruth Fraňková
Photo: Pavel Štecha – heirs, Institute of Contemporary History, Czech Academy of Sciences
In the late 1950s, the communist authorities came up with a plan to demolish Prague’s district of Žižkov, replacing it with modern, prefabricated housing. Their plans moved slowly, and it was only in the 1970s that they commissioned photographer Pavel Štecha to document the poor conditions in the district. However, his photographs had an unintended effect: rather than justifying destruction, they helped rally preservation efforts. The compelling story is now explored in a new online exhibition by the Institute for Contemporary History of the Czech Academy of Sciences, titled Předvečer Asanace (The Eve of the Clearance). I spoke with its curator, historian Petr Roubal:
When did the plans for the demolition of Žižkov first emerge? Because it wasn’t the Communists who originally came up with the idea, right?.
See more here.
Author: Ruth Fraňková
Photo: APF Czech Radio
On the 12th of December 1952, a senior academic died in Prague. This lifelong scholar was Bedřich Hrozný, a Czech man born in the Bohemian town of Lysá nad Labem, and he remains famous today for his work on ancient languages. Most notably, it was thanks to him that the first translations of the lost language of the Hittites were not into English or French, but Czech. To understand the genius and the legacy of Hrozný, Danny Bate spoke to Krishnan Ram-Prasad, a scholar of Hittite and other languages of antiquity at the University of Oxford.
I think it’s best to start at the beginning with Bedřich Hrozný, so let’s talk a little bit about his early life.
See more here.
Author: Danny Bate
Photo: René Volfík, iROZHLAS.cz
The Senate has passed an amendment to the gun law that will oblige arms dealers and shooting range owners to report suspicious clients to the police. The measure is a forerunner of a massive overhaul of the gun law that will come into force in 2026, approved in reaction to the tragic shooting at the Prague Faculty of Arts almost exactly a year ago.
The act of a lone gunman who went on a rampage at the Prague Faculty of Arts on Dec 21 of last year, killing 14 people and injuring 25, left the country reeling and set in motion a massive overhaul of the gun law that was approved earlier this year.
See more here.
Author: Daniela Lazarová
Photo: Barbora Navrátilová, Radio Prague International
On Thursday, Czech Radio Vltava will premiere the documentary Postscriptum of Bedřich Smetana. Created by Tomáš Dufka, head of the radio archive, the project examines pivotal political and social events, such as the Nazi occupation of Czechoslovakia, through the lens of Smetana’s music, which left a powerful legacy after the composer’s death. The documentary uses dozens of newly discovered materials from the Czech Radio archive, among other sources.
Bedřich Smetana’s music held significant political influence for the Czech nation, often serving as a source of unity during pivotal historical moments.
See more here.
Author: Jakub Ferenčík
Photo: Vlasta Gajdošíková, ČRo
Conservationists discovered extensive Baroque paintings on the walls and vaults of the Church of St. Michael the Archangel in Dolní Věstonice. They describe it as a fundamental contribution to the history of early Baroque art in Moravia. Its discovery was shortlisted in this year’s competition of the National Heritage Institute Patrimonium Pro Futuro.
The discovery of the early Baroque paintings in Moravia is exceptional not only for its size but also for offering insight into the artistry of the era.
See more here.
Photo: Michal Šafařík, Czech Radio
Scientists from Mendel University in Brno have cultivated highly efficient algae capable of removing residues of fertilizers and pharmaceuticals—including paracetamol and antibiotics—from water. These algae are grown in specialised bioreactors, and laboratory experiments are yielding promising results.
One of the researchers examining the potential use of algae in wastewater treatment is Jan Veselský from the Faculty of Agronomy at Mendel University.
See more here.
Author: Ruth Fraňková
Photo: Barbora Navrátilová, Radio Prague International
A unique exhibition called Crystal Garden is currently underway at the Prague Botanical garden in Trója. The special showcase features glass flowers and animals crafted by renowned Czech glassmaker Jiří Pačinek and his team. Visitors can admire the stunning glass structures until February 2, 2025.
Some light installations include interactive features, and visitors can also enjoy scheduled audio-visual shows.
See more here.
Photo: Michal Kamaryt, ČTK
Ewa Farna, Marek Ztracený, the band Kabát, and rapper Calin have repeated their wins in the 2024 Český slavík music poll. Farna, who also received the Absolute Slavík award, praised her band and joked about performing at Prague’s Eden stadium. Ztracený claimed his fourth win as Best Male Singer and dedicated the award to his father. Kabát and Calin won their respective categories but did not attend the event. Emerging artist Sofian Medjmedj was named Discovery of the Year. Marta Kubišová was inducted into the Český slavík Hall of Fame. The gala featured performances by top Czech artists and marked the poll’s 62nd year.
See more here.
Author: Vít Pohanka
Photo: National Museum
Even after 75 years, the mysterious phenomenon which occurred during a sermon by parish priest Josef Toufar in a small church in the village of Číhošt’ in the Highlands, remains unexplained. The communist secret police tortured the priest to death and launched a terror campaign against the Catholic Church.
Shortly before Christmas, on December 11th 1949, parishioners at a church in the village of Číhošť in Vysočina claimed to have witnessed a cross moving of its own volition during the morning mass celebrated by parish priest Josef Toufar.
See more here.
Photo: Jitka Cibulová Vokatá, Czech Radio
Three out of for Czechs have at least some experience with mushroom picking. You would find similar if not higher proportion of mushroom pickers in other Central and East European countries. In Britain or Scandinavia the picture is completely different.
The idea for this episode came to me a few months ago when I spoke with Karina Giffard, a Czech woman who found a new home in Britain.
See more here.
Author: Vít Pohanka
Photo: Barletta
The Czech animated film Život k sežrání (Living Large), a co-production with Slovakia and France, is set to compete at this year’s European Film Awards, which will be presented on Saturday. Directed by Kristina Dufková, it tells the story of 12-year-old Ben, who struggles with obesity while navigating the complexities of adolescence.
Ben Pipetka is a music-loving and chef-in-the-making 12-year-old, who is about to face the biggest challenge of his life.
See more here.
Photo: Jana Stuláková, iROZHLAS.cz
Sports organizations in the Czech Republic are learning to measure their carbon footprints—a crucial first step in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and safeguarding their own future. The Czech Olympic Committee has introduced a carbon calculator specifically designed for sports organizations, which will be available for use in the Czech Republic starting in January. Vít Pohanka asked Naďa Černá from the Committee to explain how the calculator works:
“It’s an online platform with embedded emission factors.
See more here.
Author: Vít Pohanka
Photo: Ivan Ivánek, Wildlife Photographer of the Year/ National History Museum London
Czech photographer Ivan Ivánek has made it to the final stage of the prestigious Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition, with his photograph of langurs taken in Vietnam. His image is one of 25 selected for the People’s Choice Award, where the winner is decided by public vote.
The competition received a record 59,228 entries from photographers across 117 countries.
See more here.
Author: Ruth Fraňková
Photo: Archive of DPP
The project to build a metro in the Czech capital dates back to the 1970s, but the first plans for an underground in the Czech capital date back to a much earlier time at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries.
We meet our guide Martin Karlík, from the Prague City Tourism, at Muzeum, a station located at the junction of metro lines A and line C, to find out more about the initial plans for a metro in Prague.
See more here.
On the occasion of the National Day of Romania, The Ambassador of Romania in the Czech Republic, H.E. Mrs. Antoaneta Barta, and Mr. Bogdan Barta hosted a reception at Prague – Kaiserštejnsk. Palác.
RNDr. Miloš Vystrčil, President of the Senate of the Czech Republic was the honored guest.
On that occasion took place the awarding ceremony of the National Order “Star of Romania” in the rank of Grand Cross to H.E Mr. Miloš Vystrčil.
The Decree on awarding of the National Order “Star of Romania”, based on the provision of the Constitution of Romania, as a sign of high appreciation for the exceptional merits in the development of political and diplomatic relations with Romania, the promotion of democratic, European and Transatlantic values in foreign policy and in deepening of the bilateral dialogue between our country and the Czech Republic, The President of Romania decrees:
National Odrer “Star of Romania” in the rank of Grand Cross is awarded to Mister Miloš Vystrčil, President of the Senate of the Czech Republic.
Signed by the President of Romania, Klaus-Werner Johannis in Bucharest, on the 13th of September 2024.
The event was moderated by Ms. Alexandrina Panaite-Cserkesz – Minister Counsellor.
Watch the Video with the speech of the Ambassador of Romania in the Czech Republic, H.E. Mrs. Antoaneta Barta, RNDr. Miloš Vystrčil, President of the Senate of the Czech Republic, and the award ceremony.
La Mulci Ani Romania
On the occasion of the National Day of the Kingdom of Thailand and the birthday Anniversary of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great and the Father’s Day, The Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand H.E. Mr. Suwat Kaewsook and Mrs. Patcharin Naewsook host a reception at the beautiful Klementinum Mirror Chapel in Prague.
H.E Mr. Václav Klaus Former President of the Czech Republic, his spouse, Mrs. Livia Klausová, and Mr. Jiří Kozák – First Deputy minister of foreign affairs of the Czech Republic, were the honored guests.
Watch the video with the speeches of H.E. Mr. Suwat Kaewsook – the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand to the Czech Republic, and of Mr. Jiří Kozák – First Deputy minister of Foreign affairs of the Czech Republic, and of H.E Mr. Václav Klaus Former President of the Czech Republic.
Happy National Day Kingdom of Thailand
สุขสันต์วันชาติราชอาณาจักรไทย
(S̄uk̄hs̄ạnt̒ wạn chāti rāch xāṇācạkr thịy )
On the occasion of the 112th Anniversary of the Independence Day of the Republic of Albania, H.E. Mr. Ilir TEPELENA – the Ambassador of the Republic of Albania to the Czech Republic, and Mrs. Marsela Tepelena, hosted a reception at the beautiful Rudolfino in Prague.
Mr. Jan Marian – Deputy minister of foreign affairs of the Czech Republic, was the honored speaker.
Watch the video with the speech of H.E. Mr. Ilir TEPELENA – the Ambassador of the Republic of Albania to the Czech Republic, and of Mr. Jan Marian – Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic.
Happy Independence Day, Albania
The Event that took place on 5.12.2024 at the beautiful Korean Embassy had 2 parts:
In the first part, H.E. Mr. Youngki HONG, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea, hosts a Press Briefing.
Watch the video for the Press Briefing with a very nice surprise at the end.
The second part was the traditional Winter Concert with Ukrainian Youth,
The concert starts with a Christmas Song performed by H.E. Mr. Youngki HONG, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea, H.E. Most Reverend Jude Thaddeus OKOLO, H.E. Mr. Víctor Aquiles ABUJATUM SEPÚLVEDA and his spouse, Ms. Anne Huisinga-Paret – the spouse of the Netherlands Ambassador and head of the DSA and Ms. Helle Kelstrup – the spouse of the Denmark Ambassador. Ms. Hyojin Kim – The spouse of the Korean Ambassador accompanied them on the piano.
Watch the speech of H.E. Mr. Youngki HONG, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea, Mr. Martin Dvořák Minister for European Affairs, H.E. Mr. Vasyl ZVARYCH, Ambassador of Ukraine, Mr. Jan Fisher, Previous PM of the Czech Republic, and Ms. Yulia Oleinik – Head of UNICEF in the Czech Republic.
At the Rich Culture program appearance: Kroky Dobra ( Ukrainian Choir), Praha Korean Choir, Korean Musicians and Theater group UAkidsSchool.
Watch Highlights from the culture performance.
On the occasion of 30 years of diplomatic relations between the Republic of North Macedonia and the Czech Republic, H.E Mr. Emil KRSTESKI – the Ambassador of North Macedonia, hosted an official reception at Kaiserstein Palace in Prague.
Mr. Jan Marian – Deputy minister of foreign affairs of the Czech Republic was the honored speaker.
Watch the video with part of the speech of H.E Mr. Emil KRSTESKI – the Ambassador of North Macedonia and of Mr. Jan Marian – Deputy minister of foreign affairs of the Czech Republic.
Georgian Ambassador to Czechia Tea Maisuradze announced her resignation on X, citing her belief in Georgia’s future within the European Union.
See more here.
Author: Vít Pohanka
Read the interview with H.E. Tea Maisuradze “Living and Working Among Friends”: https://www.czechleaders.com/interviews/h-e-tea-maisuradze
Photo: Office of the President of the Republic
Petr Pavel is currently exploring the southern hemisphere, as the Czech president continues his two-week visit to Australia and New Zealand. Together with First Lady Eva Pavlová, the president is working through a full programme of meetings focused on trade, diplomacy and defence, as well as some more relaxed cultural experiences.
After almost thirty years, a Czech president touched down in Australia on November 24th, to begin a two-week programme of appointments in Australia and New Zealand.
See more here.
Author: Danny Bate
Photo: Zuzana Jarolímková, iROZHLAS.cz
As Christmas draws near, the familiar melodies of traditional holiday songs start to fill the air. So, for this week’s Sunday Music Show, we are also taking the occasion to play you some classic Czech pieces that have become an inseparable part of the season in Czechia.
The most popular pieces include – among many others – “Midnight Mass” (Půlnoční) by Václav Neckář and Umakart, “Promises Must Be Kept at Christmas” (Sliby se maj plnit o Vánocích) by Janek Ledecký, and “It’s the Holidays” (Jsou svátky) by Karel Gott.
See more here.
Photo: Hana Řeháková, Radio Prague International
The Negrelli Viaduct, the iconic railway bridge that carries trains across the Vltava between Holešovice/Bubeneč and Karlín, now has a social and cultural space nestled within one of its arches.
Created by adding a glass front to one of the viaduct’s giant arches, the new space can found at the intersection of the Sokolovská and Prvního pluku streets in the Karlín district of Prague.
See more here.
Author: Danny Bate
Illustrative photo: cottonbro, Pexels, CC0 1.0 DEED
The proportion of young Czechs planning to have children in the next three years has significantly declined, with the sharpest drop among those in difficult economic situations. These findings are part of the ongoing ‘Contemporary Czech Family’ research project, a collaboration between Masaryk University in Brno and Charles University in Prague. I discussed these new outcomes and their implications with Martin Kreidl, head of the research team.
Can you share with us the key findings of your research what were the most surprising trends that you have identified?.
See more here.
Author: Ruth Fraňková
Photo: Zuzana Jarolímková, iROZHLAS.cz
From December to March, the Prague Museum of Decorative Arts (UPM) is playing host to the world-famous photography of Josef Koudelka. Presented in an exhibition entitled ‘Ruins’, the photographs are the product of over two decades of visits to historical sites by the Czech-French photographer.
Open from Wednesday 4th of December, several halls of Prague’s Museum of Decorative Arts are dedicated for the next four months to the black-and-white images created by Josef Koudelka.
See more here.
Author: Danny Bate
Source: ANNA MARESOVA designers
Czech designer Anna Marešová has presented two designs for the new cable car to the Ještěd Mountain in north Bohemia. One design is inspired by the original cable car, which was damaged in a 2021 accident, while the other offers a more modern concept. Liberec councillors are set to make a final decision on the design next week.
Both designs feature a silver, illuminated cabin with a small see-through section in the floor, through which a cone of light will pass as the cabin reaches the top.
See more here.
Author: Ruth Fraňková
Photo: Milan Kopecký, Czech Radio
Carp, a traditional centerpiece of Czech Christmas dinners, has sparked debate over its sale as a live product. This year, Prague launched a campaign urging more humane treatment of carp from pond to table, though it stops short of calling for a ban on live sales.
When it comes to eating fish, Czechs are not exactly known for their enthusiasm.
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Author: Vít Pohanka
Photo illustrative: Luboš Popovič, Radio Prague International
According to the Association of Driving Schools, almost 18,000 young drivers are already driving on Czech roads under the supervision of mentors. Despite the high number, according to police statistics, fears that they would increase the accident rate have not been confirmed.
At the beginning of 2024, the Czech Ministry of Transport gave the green light to seventeen-year-old drivers.
See more here.
Author: Danny Bate, Luděk Hubáček
Silvia Vezzuto, originally from northern Italy, discusses the story of her arrival in Prague, learning Czech from scratch, and the role of art as a light in a dark world.
See more here.
Photo: René Volfík, iROZHLAS.cz
The ski season in Czechia officially kicked off this past weekend, with a number of winter resorts welcoming their first visitors. After last year’s disappointing season and the ongoing challenges of climate change, how are Czech ski resorts faring? And is skiing in Czechia sustainable in the long run?
The transition from November to December traditionally marks the start of the ski season in Czechia, and this year is no exception.
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Author: Ruth Fraňková
Photo: Luboš Pavlíček, ČTK
Town squares all over Czechia have officially opened their festive markets with a rich cultural programme, which in many places will last until 2025. Thousands of people have been to watch the traditional lighting up of Christmas trees. On Prague’s Old Town Square, the occasion was complemented by a two-minute animation set to Vltava by Bedřich Smetana.
See more here.
Photo: Ian Willoughby, Radio Prague Int.
Prague’s Semafor theatre was the most significant arts institution in 1960s Czechoslovakia, ushering in a new era against the backdrop of a slow political thaw in the communist country. Semafor was centred on the song-writing duo of Jiří Suchý and Jiří Šlitr and gave starts to a whole generation of enormous and enduring pop stars. Top Czech music writer Pavel Klusák explores the theatre’s great decade in his brand new book Suchý and Šlitr: Semafor 1959–1969 – and shared his insights at our studios in Vinohrady.
You’ve written this wonderful new book about Jiří Suchý and Jiří Šlitr.
See more here.
Author: Ian Willoughby
Photo: Jaroslav Sýbek, ČTK
By abolishing visas for Czechoslovaks, the Austrians launched an era of free travel.
In December 1989, a dream came true for thousands of Czechoslovaks: they were able to travel freely across the border to the West.
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Author: Klára Stejskalová
Photo: Barbora Navrátilová, Radio Prague International
“I really enjoy everything I do, but agents sometimes find it difficult to sell my work” says pianist, singer and songwriter Beata Hlavenková. What is her big professional wish? And why she does not enjoy songs around the campfire so much? Listen to the latest episode of Faces of Czech Music.
See more here.
Author: Petr Dudek
Photo: archive of Martina Sirová
Sonjašnyk is an all-female Czech-Ukrainian choir, based in the eastern-Bohemian city of Litomyšl. Founded two years ago to help Ukrainian women who had fled the war, it has continued to tour and raise money for charitable causes around Czechia.
For Martina Sirová, singing is a true passion.
See more here.
Author: Danny Bate
Illustrative photo: Pixabay, Pixabay License
Czechs are wary of the euro. Despite the fact that Czechia has been a European Union member country for more than two decades, the common European currency is viewed with suspicion by the majority of the population.
The Czech cabinet this week discussed a report by NERV—the National Economic Government Council—about the possible adoption of the euro.
See more here.
Author: Vít Pohanka
Photo: Tobias Humble, archive of Simon Goff
Simon Goff, a British musician and composer, is the visionary behind the soundtrack of this year’s celebrated Czech film Vlny (Waves). He spoke to Danny Bate about his British background, his move to Berlin, his process of making music, and his career path into composing film soundtracks.
I’d like to start with your early years, and especially the role of music when you were a child.
See more here.
Author: Danny Bate
Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan, will take place from 13.4.2025 to 13.10.2025.
Ondřej Soška – Commissioner General of the Czech participation at EXPO 2025, organized a press conference in Letenskt Zamecek to update how the construction of the Czech National Pavilion is progressing, present the concept of the visitor journey for the Czech National Pavilion, announce the results of the public tender for the restaurant operator, and introduce the restaurant concept, and reveal the final details of the Czech Pavilion.
The press conference had three panels:
And a presentation of the ROBOT Expedition – a unique ride of Czech vintage cars from Prague to Osaka for EXPO 2025, which will be loosely based on the Sakura Expedition from 1970.
All the event was professionally moderated by Jana Kohoutova – Communication Manager of the Czech participation at EXPO 2025.
We are looking forward to the Grand opening.
The Fassati Art Festival is an art project full of unusual experiences encompassing music, fine arts, architecture, design, epicurean delicacies, emotions, and interpersonal harmony.
The main idea of the festival was prepared by the beautiful soprano Markéta Fassati, who guarantees the festival’s uniqueness.
The 2024 concert took place at the historic beautiful church of St. James the Greater (also the Elder) and the Minorite monastery in Prague Old Town. It was founded by Václav I in 1232, apparently in connection with the establishment of the Old Town of Prague.
This year, the soprano Marketa Fassati was accompanied by a great band: Radim Linhart – pianist and composer, Ivan Koreny – and guitarist and Michal Zpevak – multi-instrumentalist.
Watch the video with moments from this great concert that us a great joy.
You can find more details about the Fassati Art Festival: https://www.fassatiartfestival.com/
On November 26, Anglo-American University (AAU) hosted a lively and insightful public debate marking the anniversary of the fall of the Iron Curtain. Organized in partnership with the Strategeo Institute, the event brought together a diverse group of speakers and attendees to reflect on this pivotal moment in history and what it means for today’s world.
The evening tackled big questions:
The Panels
Panel 1: Politics, Geopolitics, and History
The first panel, moderated by Veselin Vačkov from the Strategeo Institute, focused on the historical and political side of things. Panelists included:
The conversation covered the courage of dissidents, the influence of geopolitics, and the unexpected speed of the Cold War’s end. Speakers also connected these historical lessons to today’s political turbulence and growing divisions.
Panel 2: Economics and the Future
The second panel, led by Jan Macháček, took a closer look at the economic shifts after the Cold War and the challenges we’re facing now. Speakers included:
This panel sparked a lot of conversation about global trade, the EU’s struggles to stay competitive, and how Europe can bounce back from economic slowdowns.
The event attracted a great mix. Ambassadors: H.E. Mr. Pasi Olavi TUOMINEN – Ambassador of Republic of Finland, H.E. Mr. Bakyt DYUSSENBAYEV – Ambassador of Republic of Kazakhstan, H.E. Ms. Ayesha ALI – Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, H.E. Ms. Albesjana IBERHYSAJ-KAPITAJ – Ambassador of the Republic of Kosovo, Mr. HTUANN NAUNG – Charge d‘Affaires of the Union of Myanmar, students, professionals, and academics who weren’t afraid to ask tough questions and share their thoughts. Both panels sparked energetic discussions, and the audience’s enthusiasm made it clear that these topics still hit home for many people.
Photos: Kyle Herda, AAU
The prize for climate change communication, which is awarded annually by the UN Information Center in Prague and the Learned Society of the Czech Republic, was won this year by Czech Radio climate reporter Jan Kaliba. He started his journalism career as a sports reporter, worked as a correspondent for public radio in the United States from 2017-2023, and now focuses mainly on events related to climate change. This year, the organizers also awarded the “Inspiration from Abroad” award for the first time, the laureate of which was Anna Holligan, the BBC correspondent in the Netherlands.
The award ceremony in the Václav Havel Library in Prague was honored by the attending of H.E. Mr. Stéphane CROUZAT – Ambassador of the Republic of France, and H.E. Mr. Daan Feddo HUISINGA – Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
Grand prize
“The Climate Change Communication Award 2024 is awarded to Jan Kalib for the high level of climate reporting from home and around the world, which is accessible to a wide range of listeners and at the same time does not lack depth and contextuality; and for establishing climate change as a cross-cutting topic that is gradually becoming part of the education of media workers,” reads the nomination committee’s rationale.
At the presentation ceremony in the Václav Havel Library in Prague, the Learned Society awarded the prize winner with a monetary donation of 30,000 CZK. The UN Office in the Czech Republic symbolically handed over a tree seedling. This is a continuation of the tradition from previous years when the following were awarded: climatologist Radim Tolasz (2019), Ondráš Přibyla and the Fakta o klima team (2020), climatologist Miroslav Trnka (2021), polar ecologist Marie Šabacká (2022) and the Climate Association for International Issues (AMO) (2023).
Honorable mention
This year, for the first time, the organizers awarded the honorary award “Inspiration from Abroad”. It was awarded to Anna Holligan, British journalist and broadcaster for the BBC in the Netherlands, author of the News from the Cycle Path project and co-founder of The Bike Bureau, for “extraordinary efforts to communicate authentically and promote innovative and sustainable solutions in news production, while maintaining the highest standards of journalism.”
In previous years, the organizers awarded an honorary award for lifetime contribution to the ecologist, university teacher, and former Minister of the Environment Bedřich Moldan (2021) and geneticist and molecular epidemiologist Radi Šrám (in memoriam 2022); for an extraordinary achievement to the head of the TEREZA educational center Petar Daniš for the book “Climate is an opportunity” and sociologist Vojtěch Peck for the book “Factory of lies: production of climate disinformation” (both in 2023).
Czech Radio Plus editor Daniela Vrbová accompanied the program in the Václav Havel Library. The recording of the ceremony, including the awardees’ lectures and their discussion with the 2021 laureate Ondráš Přibyla, founder and director of the Climate Facts organization, is available on YouTube: https://bit.ly/cenaklima24
The award for climate change communication is intended for scientists and experts who work in the Czech public space. This is not a journalistic award; it is just a coincidence that both of this year’s laureates work in the media. In the communication of this topic, they fulfill high professional criteria of understanding complex issues and working with data.
The project is jointly organized and covered by the UN Information Center in Prague and the Learned Society of the Czech Republic. The winner of the main prize is decided by a nomination committee made up of representatives of important Czech institutions dealing with climate change. Committee membership is honorary and personal. The aim of the award is to contribute to the enlightenment and cultivation of a reliable, factual and current knowledge-based discussion about one of the world’s most serious threats. The award is also intended to contribute to bridging differences of opinion and to foster a culture of critical discussion between different disciplines.
Background
“Human-induced climate change is leading to large-scale and rapid changes in the atmosphere, oceans, cryosphere, and biosphere, and is causing a large number of extreme weather events. Global greenhouse gas emissions increased by 1.2% in 2021-2022 to reach 57.4 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent. 2023 was by far the hottest year on record. The volume of heat in the oceans reached record values, while the Arctic and Antarctic glaciation was at an all-time low. Temperatures in the first half of 2024 were also record high.
People on every continent have experienced extreme weather events, from searing heat across much of Asia and drought in southern Africa to record flooding in southern Brazil and unprecedented Hurricane Beryl in the Caribbean. The increasingly frequent occurrence of dangerous weather extremes and their devastating impacts on the population highlights the need for urgent and ambitious climate action,” states the latest United in Science summary report 1.
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Jan Kaliba, ČRo reporter : “Climate change has thousands of forms and offers thousands of stories, it speaks to us through floods, frozen apple harvests, canceled Jizerská fifty or people’s efforts to warm their homes. Every journalist is therefore a bit of a climate journalist these days. But it’s not easy to admit it, it’s not easy to find your way around it, it’s not easy to deal with the complexity of this topic and the climate myths and misinformation that abound in the public space. It is not easy to wrap climate change into understandable and digestible stories. Therefore, I accept the award with great respect for all my journalist colleagues who have been working on the topic of climate change in the Czech Republic for a long time, and with thanks to Czech Radio for deciding to establish the position of climate reporter and to help this urgent topic become more familiar in the Czech public debate and to reporting on it has become mainstream.”
Anna Holligan, BBC correspondent in the Netherlands: “Telling authentic stories has a transformative effect on climate communication. By sharing experiences from my personal journey, I aim to shift the narrative of despair to hope and open the way to a more sustainable future. Let’s inspire each other to take meaningful action for our planet!”
Jan Dusík, Deputy Director General for Climate at the European Commission and member of the nomination committee for the award: “Today it is increasingly difficult to navigate which information is true and substantiated, and which is purposefully colored. Whether for reasons of economic or political benefit, or simply as targeted disinformation. The topic of climate change, which is generally perceived as the most fundamental civilizational challenge, is fertile ground – and especially in the Czech Republic – for purposeful dissemination or editing of information. It’s good that the winner of the Climate Change Communication Award has been announced for the sixth time, and the even better news is that it held its own against strong competition from others. It gives me hope that the attitude of Czechs and Czechs to this fundamental challenge can be based on quality and understandable sources!”
Radim Tolasz, climatologist of the ČHMÚ, Czech representative in the IPCC, first laureate of the award (2019): “In recent years, it has been increasingly confirmed that deficiencies in communication reduce the importance and acceptance of scientific results in the public. Not only in climatology, it has general validity. That is why I consider the climate change communication award a remarkable and important undertaking. Above all, I wish the awardee an understanding audience.”
Pavel Jungwirth, Learned Society of the Czech Republic : “Science provides a clear and increasingly accurate picture of climate change and the human contribution to it. However, if these findings are not clearly and convincingly communicated to the general public, who can then also influence political decision-making, we will remain half way. That’s why the Climate Communication Prize is here as an encouragement to take further steps in the right direction.”
More details you can find at: https://osn.cz/
Photo : UNIC Prague
Visitors can find a Caucasian Christmas tree near the silver gibbon exhibit. Photo by Petr Hamerník, Prague Zoo
On Sunday, December 1, the Prague Zoo will light up the Christmas tree in the Veselovského meadow. Visitors can look forward to the traditional procession to the tree, the nativity scene, and the presentation of the new adoption campaign. The Christmas atmosphere will also be created by carols performed by a children’s choir.
From 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., entry for all visitors will be a symbolic 50 CZK.
Prague Zoo will welcome visitors at 4:15 p.m. at the Education Center near the main entrance. Subsequently, the procession will go towards the lower part of the Prague Zoo grounds to the Veselovského meadow. Even before the Christmas tree is lit, the Prague Zoo will present this year’s campaign Adopt me!
Thanks to the adoption campaign, the so-called animal orphans, i.e. animals without an adoptive parent, find their patrons. It is not only about gaining new supporters, but also about introducing the public to species that, despite their uniqueness, are often overlooked. An adoption certificate can thus be a meaningful and original Christmas gift.
The arrival of Advent will be accompanied by the carols of the Osmikvítek children’s choir.
Main program:
16.15 Meeting of visitors at the Education Center and procession to the tree on Veselovského louka
16.30 Christmas carols performed by the Osmikvítek children’s choir
16.40 Welcome and Christmas greetings from the director of the Prague Zoo, Miroslav Bobek
16.50 Presentation of the adoption campaign
17.00 Lighting of the Christmas tree
17.10 Christmas carols performed by the Osmikvítek children’s choir
The Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies, Markéta Pekarová Adamová, together with the Chairman of the Parliamentary Subcommittee for European Funds and Cross-Border Cooperation, Vladimír Zlínský, paid a two-day visit to Albania. In Tirana, they discussed closer Czech-Albanian inter-parliamentary cooperation and economic opportunities for Czech entrepreneurs in the Western Balkans with the Speaker of the Parliament, Elisa Spiropali.
In Tirana, she discussed Czech-Albanian inter-parliamentary and economic cooperation with the speaker of the parliament, Elisa Spiropali. She then discussed the security situation in the region with Albanian President Bajram Begaj. She also met with representatives of local civil society.
“Relations between our countries are very strong, especially in the field of economic cooperation. Our mutual trade balance is comparable to – and in many sectors even exceeds – the volume of exchange with many of our more economically robust partners in Europe. However, there is still great potential for further Czech investments in the Albanian market. In addition, a more intensive trade exchange goes hand in hand with the long-term goal of Albania’s integration into the European Union. The stable political and business environment here is a key prerequisite both for the development of trade and the growth of foreign investments, as well as for the smooth entry of the country into the family of EU member states,” said the Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies, Markéta Pekarová Adamová.
The Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies, Markéta Pekarová Adamová then addressed the Albanian legislators at an extraordinary session of the Parliament.
“Albania plays a vital role in the fight against Russian influence, in which it has our full support. In this context, it is particularly important that both the Czech Republic and Albania are members of the North Atlantic Alliance and cooperate not only as strategic allies but also as close friends sharing democratic values. I am convinced that our joint efforts will further contribute to the security and prosperity of the entire Western Balkans,” said Speaker of the House Markéta Pekarová Adamová, among other things, in her speech in the Albanian Parliament. She also discussed current security issues with Albanian President Bajram Begaj.
Before leaving for Sarajevo, the parliamentary delegation also met with representatives of Albanian civil society, who focus on challenges in the field of women’s rights and media objectivity.
Photo: Petr Švancara, ČTK
The city of Brno has won the title of European Capital of Christmas in the category of cities with over 100,000 inhabitants. The European Capital of Christmas and European City of Christmas awards have been given out since 2017 under the auspices of the European Parliament.
An international jury praised the city’s modern Advent markets and their connection to traditional European values.
See more here.
Photo: Platforma pro včasnou péči
On Monday, the organization Platforma pro včasnou péči (“Early Care Platform”) hosted a roundtable discussion in the Chamber of Deputies to explore the importance of early childhood development and ways to make the Czech Republic a more family-friendly place. I went there to hear from a number of researchers and decision makers on what Czechs can do to help protect their children and set them up better for life.
The event brought together a number of speakers from across Czechia, including Tomáš Hradil, the Mayor of Krnov, as well as Petra Večerková, the director of Eurotopia and the current Deputy Mayor, and Czech linguist and politician Olga Richterová, among others.
See more here.
Author: Jakub Ferenčík
Photo: Tomáš Belloň, Ústav organické chemie a biochemie Akademie věd ČR
Seven experts from Czechia have been ranked among the top one percent of the world’s most cited scientists, according to the Highly Cited Researchers 2024 list by Clarivate. The list includes ecologist and botanist Petr Pyšek and physicist Tomáš Jungwirth, who was recently honoured with Czechia’s most prestigious scientific award, Czech Head.
This year’s list of the world’s most cited scientists, compiled by the British-American analytics company Clarivate, features 6,636 researchers from over 1,200 institutions in 59 countries and regions.
See more here.
Author: Ruth Fraňková
Photo: Jan Kouba, Czech Ministry of Defense
The military air base in Prague-Kbely is planning to establish a new memorial featuring a Russian/Soviet Yakovlev Yak-40 aircraft. A petition opposing the idea has been initiated by soldiers, who advocate for showcasing a Czech aircraft instead.
The Czech army flew with the Russian machine from the 1980s until 2020, but the idea of building a memorial with a Russian aircraft was conceived in 2019.
See more here.
Author: Jakub Ferenčík
Photo: Ian Willoughby, Radio Prague International
Tom Gross campaigned for Roma rights and was active in the media in early 1990s Prague. However, the Englishman had had some remarkable experiences in the city even before joining the influx of young westerners to Czechoslovakia’s new democracy. These included covert deliveries to leading dissidents in the communist period – and inadvertently being in close proximity to some of the world’s most notorious terrorists. Gross shared his stories at our studios in Vinohrady.
You were one of thousands of young westerners who moved to Prague in the early 1990s, but unlike the vast majority of us you had already been here earlier.
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Author: Ian Willoughby
Photo: Petr Bušta, Czech Radio
“More funding, more soldiers and more active reserves” that was the message Czech army commanders sent to politicians and the public in connection with the growing threat of war. The army chief-of-staff said NATO’s new collective defense commitments would necessitate far-reaching changes in the Czech military.
The chief-of-staff of the Czech Armed Forces, Karel Řehka, has been warning for months that the country must prepare for a potential military conflict, but at Tuesday’s meeting of military commanders he was brutally frank about the need to bolster the armed forces and be prepared to pay much more for the country’s security.
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Author: Daniela Lazarová
Photo: René Volfík, iROZHLAS.cz
Israel’s recently appointed foreign minister, Gideon Saar, will visit Czechia on Thursday during his first official foreign trip. The Czech Republic supports the Jewish state in its fight against Hamas and Hezbollah with fewer reservations than other EU countries.
Czech society has had a strong Jewish presence since the Middle Ages.
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Author: Vít Pohanka
Photo: Lenka Žižková, Radio Prague International
Antonín Dvořák, one of the most celebrated composers of the 19th century, is not only associated with his birthplace Nelahozeves but also with Vysoká u Příbrami, where he spent many summers. During these stays, he was a regular visitor to the nearby church in Třebsko, attending morning mass. In 1894, Dvořák donated a set of organ pipes to the church, but unfortunately, these were destroyed in a devastating fire in 1953. Now, a rare recording of the organ’s sound has been uncovered in the archives of Czech Radio.
“Antonín Dvořák bought this pipe organ for the church here.
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Author: Vít Pohanka
Born in Brno to Angolan parents, Linette Manuel is a pioneer in the world of fashion design, integrating new technology into the process. She shares with us the story of her family, her current work and the goals of her platform Makeful.
See more here.
Photo: Adam Blažej, ČTK
Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský paid a two-day working visit to Kyiv at the weekend. In addition to meetings with President Zelensky, Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal and Foreign Minister Sybiha, Mr. Lipavský attended a summit on food security, visited a children’s hospital and a demining project of the HALO Trust fund.
Minister Lipavský arrived in Kyiv just a day after Russia launched an intermediate-range ballistic missile at the city of Dnipro.
See more here.
Author: Daniela Lazarová
Photo: Jitka Nováková, Czech Radio
Although Mělník lacks a formal founding charter, the first historical mention of its status as a city appears in a document issued by King Ottokar II of Bohemia on November 25, 1274. Nestled in Central Bohemia, approximately 40 kilometers from Prague, Mělník is renowned for its rich history, architectural landmarks, and stunning views of the confluence of the Elbe and Vltava rivers.
Mělník’s dominant feature is its historic castle, owned by the noble Lobkowicz family.
See more here.
Author: Vít Pohanka
Photo: public domain
Leoš Janáček was a classical music composer with a distinctly Czech style. Although one of his greatest works – Taras Bulba –was inspired by Russian literature, the music itself reflects the cadence of Janáček’s mother tongue and its Silesian dialect.
Leoš Janáček was born on July 3, 1854 in the small town of Hukvaldy in the eastern part of the Czech Republic.
See more here.
Author: Daniela Lazarová
During the autumn round of the nationwide food collection on Saturday, 640 tonnes of goods were donated in stores across the country—a record in the event’s 11-year history, surpassing last autumn’s total by several dozen tonnes.
See more here.
Author: Jakub Ferenčík
Photo: Ian Willoughby, Radio Prague International
Osamu Okamura was born in Tokyo to Japanese-Czech parents but moved to Prague while still an infant. An architect by profession, he is involved in a wide slew of activities, from academic work to popularising the concept of liveable cities among the general public. His family name is well-known in Czechia largely thanks to his brother Tomio Okamura, who heads a leading anti-EU political party, while a second sibling, Hayato Okamura, is also an MP.
You were born to a Czech mother and a Japanese father in the 1970s.
See more here.
Author: Ian Willoughby
Photo: Martin Faltejsek, Places To Grow
On 14 November, Places to Grow hosted a conference under its name that brought together early childhood development (ECD) experts to share research on early childhood development and what policymakers can do to stop educational imbalances and inequality. I went there to speak to the head of PAQ Research, Daniel Prokop; Professor of the National Centre for Learning Environment and Behavioural Research at the University of Stavanger, Thomas Moser; and Senior Director for Strategic Engagements and Organizational Learning at Harvard University, James Cairns.
What are the key components of an effective preschool program, especially for disadvantaged children?.
See more here.
Author: Jakub Ferenčík
Photo: Tomáš Kremr, Czech Radio
The city of Brno has approved a property exchange that will pave the way for a museum honoring composer Leoš Janáček. This significant cultural development coincides with the 170th anniversary of Janáček’s birth, an event celebrated by the ongoing international opera festival Janáček Brno.
Leoš Janáček and his works are now an essential part of global musical heritage.
See more here.
Author: Vít Pohanka
Photo: Ondřej Vaňura, Czech Radio
Over 220 people in Czechia donated organs for transplantation last year, but a shortage of donors persists, especially among foreigners who have been living in the country. To help address this issue, the Prague-based Institute for Clinical and Experimental Medicine (IKEM) has launched a new website to explain the importance of organ donation to the bereaved.
Two years ago, doctors in Czechia transplanted 80 organs from foreign donors, but this year, it was only 14 so far.
See more here.
Author: Ruth Fraňková
On the occasion of the King’s Day, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium H.E. Mr. Jurgen Van Meirvenne hosted a reception at his beautiful residence.
Mr. Eduard Hulicius – the deputy minister of foreign affairs of the Czech Republic, was the honored speaker.
Watch the video with the speech of t the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium H.E. Mr. Jurgen Van Meirvenne and of Mr. Eduard Hulicius – the deputy minister of foreign affairs of the Czech Republic,.
Long live the King!
Bear-like devil. It won’t take you to hell, but if you ever find yourself in the Darwin Crater at the Prague Zoo during their feeding, your blood might freeze. Photo by Oliver Le Que, Prague Zoo
From December 2 to 20, Prague Zoo will offer free special pre-Christmas tours for kindergarten and elementary school students. Such guided walks will go after creatures known mainly from fairy-tale books or television screens and dispel various entrenched myths associated with them.
What does a real devil look like? Where do mythical dragons live? And what is it really like with dancing lemurs? Children will learn all this and much more on tours that can be booked now.
Schools can use the favorable price list for school groups to enter the zoo – kindergarten pupils pay CZK 50, and elementary school pupils CZK 100.
As part of the program, children will not only have the opportunity to learn interesting information about animals, but also actively participate in various games and activities, during which they will often work up a sweat. Experienced guides adapt the narrative and tasks to make them fun and understandable for all ages.
Green basilisk. You won’t be petrified by looking at it, but it can surprise you by “walking” on water. Photo by Tereza Mrhálková, Prague Zoo
Groups can visit the animals from fairy tales and fairy tales on working days from December 2 to 20, but you can already book your date via the order system (https://eshop.zoopraha.cz/skoly/).
The tours are intended for kindergartens and primary schools, the interpretation and route will be adapted to the age of the children. The minimum group size is ten pupils + pedagogical support; the maximum is 30 pupils + the corresponding number of persons making up the pedagogical supervision. The offer is valid until capacity is exhausted.
To participate in the tour, you need to pay the entrance fee according to the current price list. Even in this case, the offer of discounted admission for school groups applies. The visit, including the program, costs 50 or 100 CZK per child/pupil. Pedagogical accompaniment has free entry (maximum 1 adult per 10 children, maximum 1 adult per 5 children of preschool age).
DISCOUNTED ADMISSION PRICE LIST FOR SCHOOL GROUPS
Kindergartens CZK 50 / child
Elementary schools CZK 100 / pupil
Cartagena de las Indias, Colombia, 19 November 2024 – The heightened importance of boosting investments and innovation was underscored as public and private sector leaders met to shape the future of the global tourism sector.
Further advancing UN Tourism’s leading role in these two key pillars of change, the Global Investment and Innovation Forum welcomed Ministers of Tourism, alongside key players from global finance and business. Alongside UN Tourism, the Forum was supported by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Tourism of Colombia, ProColombia, Invest in Cartagena and CAF (the Investment Bank for Latin America and the Caribbean). Underscoring the high-level discussions was a recognition of the vital need to increase investment into the sector while at the same time injecting it with new ideas and energy through promoting innovation at every level.
Opening the Forum, UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “There is both an urgency and an opportunity to build sustainable and inclusive destinations that support local economies, empower communities, and preserve their invaluable cultural heritage. This Forum makes clear the vital importance of connections: both between public and private sector players and also between countries, to increase and better direct investments into tourism, and to accelerate its digital transformation, with innovation at the heart of everything we do.”
Read more here.
Are Czech men in crisis? What do Czech women want from them? And what does “being a man” actually mean today? Solvo publishes unique research on the Crisis of Masculinity
The Solvo Institute, founded by Ivana Tykač, publishes research on the crisis of masculinity. In it, the think-tank investigated, for example, what “being a man” means for men and women, what women actually expect from men, and also how both sexes view housework.
Ivana Tykač then described the plan as follows: “Today we measure a lot of formalities and things that affect us only indirectly or are quite distant from people. We measure who would get into the House of Representatives next year, and how Czechs view EU membership, but this is not enough for us in Solv. It won’t tell you anything about the mood of the Czechs, their character, their soul, and what they are going through right now. That’s why we measure how people feel and build our expertise in a sociological-psychological view of the nation, which is fundamentally determined by the economic state of our country.”
It is clear from the research that the two sexes differ the most in their idea of a man today in that he should be tolerant and empathetic (26% of women vs. 14% of men) and handsome and likeable (23% of women vs. 16% of men). On the contrary, both men and women agree that a man should be capable, hardworking, and helpful. After forty years of age, both men and women strongly reevaluate their requirements for a partner. However, they do not agree on some attributes.
The director of Solva, Michaela Marksová, adds to the research with the words: “How the Czech Republic will be efficient, innovative and rich begins precisely at home, in the relationship, in the mutual coexistence of all of us. We can measure GDP, inflation, debt levels, all these criteria. But the extent to which the Czech Republic will be a land of opportunities and how much it will be a pleasant place to live has its roots in the way both sexes communicate with each other, and their ideas about themselves. It is related to both satisfaction in private life and at work.”
The crisis of masculinity research was carried out for Solvo on 4-10 June 2024 SC&C agency, based on a sample of 627 respondents aged 18-64. The interviews were conducted using the CAPI (536), CAWI (131) and CATI (40) methods. In the past, Solvo has already carried out large-scale research with the SC&C agency, which focused on how Czech women and children feel.
Crisis of masculinity is already available on the website www.solvo.institute.
We are Solvo. Institute for Potential Development. Because we believe in the potential of Czech society. Unfortunately, we do not use it at all and lose hundreds of billions of crowns. Come unlock it with us. With cutting-edge data and unrivaled analysis.
The 7th year of the CZECH TRAVEL MARKET international tourism contracting day took place on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, at the PVA EXPO PRAHA.
It was an advantage and a unique opportunity for business negotiations with several foreign and domestic partners.
At the same time, a big Expo of Czech Bus took place, with very interesting and innovative buses.
Photo: Katherine Vašíčková, Czech Radio
With less than a year to go before the general elections, President Petr Pavel is calling on Czechs to listen more to one another.
Speaking to Czech Radio on the 35th anniversary of the Velvet Revolution, President Pavel shared his thoughts on the state of society, where divisions—often fueled by social media—seem to run deeper than ever.
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Author: Vít Pohanka
Photo: Ondřej Tomšů, Radio Prague International
The brutal massacre of Lidice by the Nazis in the summer of 1942 sent shockwaves around the world. Communities created memorials and organized events in memory of the victims, and some towns were renamed Lidice in defiance of the Nazis’ efforts to erase the village from the map. Eighty-two years after the tragedy, its legacy has not been forgotten. Today people are contributing to the reconstruction of the Lidice Memorial that serves as a memento to future generations. The biggest contribution to date has come from the United States.
The sculpture of 82 children murdered by the Nazis in the summer of 1942 –which stands on the site of the Lidice Memorial – is well-known around the world.
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Author: Daniela Lazarová
Photo: Zuzana Jarolímková, iROZHLAS.cz
November 17th this year is the thirty-fifth anniversary of the Velvet Revolution, the events of late 1989 through which Czechoslovakia transitioned from a one-party communist state to a democratic and capitalist country.
The day is being marked with memorials, concerts and demonstrations across the country, with a particular focus being Prague’s Národní Street, the central thoroughfare where a student protest on this day sparked the revolution.
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Author: Danny Bate
Photo: Kristýna Maková, Radio Prague International
For the first time in 30 years, Prague Castle is set to receive new outdoor lighting. The aim is to better highlight the city’s iconic landmark while making the lighting more economical and environmentally friendly.
Prague Castle, the largest castle complex not only in Czechia but anywhere in the world, is the dominant of the city’s distinctive skyline.
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Author: Ruth Fraňková
Photo: Office of Czech Government
Organisers of this year’s UN climate change conference, known as COP29, which began last week in Baku, Azerbaijan, have not shown great optimism as the event reaches its end on Friday. The atmosphere has not been helped by the re-election of Donald Trump as US president, leaving global climate agreements at a critical juncture, with their future once again hanging in the balance.
During former US President Donald Trump’s first term, the United States withdrew from the Paris Climate Agreement.
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Author: Jakub Ferenčík
Photo: Miroslav Urubek, Czech Radio
An exhibition celebrating the legendary protest singer Karel Kryl got underway in Prague on Sunday. The showcase marks two important anniversaries: the 80th anniversary of his birth and 30 years since his death. It aims to highlight Kryl not just as the author of popular songs but as a deeply engaged and critically minded citizen.
“Hello, citizens!” That was how Karel Kryl greeted the audience after his emotional return to Czechoslovakia from exile in December 1989.
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Author: Ruth Fraňková
Illustrative photo: René Volfík, iROZHLAS.cz
After Russia attacked Ukraine, more than one thousand days ago, Czechia welcomed more Ukrainian refugees relative to population than any other country. Among them were thousands and thousands of children who needed an education. Based on the findings of the Council of Europe, the country did a good job.
Mapping Study on Children of Ukraine’s Access to Education provides a detailed analysis of how member states have supported Ukrainian refugee children’s educational needs since the war began.
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Author: Vít Pohanka
Photo: Hana Řeháková, Radio Prague International
Mixed reality (MR) has the potential to revolutionize storytelling by blending the physical and virtual worlds, which creates immersive experiences people would not be able to access otherwise. This innovative approach is at the heart of a compelling project that invites users to step into a Ukrainian home—a space that evolves to reflect the impact of Russia’s war. I spoke with one of its directors, Ondřej Moravec, about his collaboration with Victoria Lopukhina and the reception of the project thus far.
First I want to talk about Křehký Domov, “Fragile Home“, and about the motivation for using mixed reality.
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Author: Jakub Ferenčík
Photo: René Volfík, iROZHLAS.cz
The Czech government has moved to address a pressing problem in health care for people living in the border regions who often have to travel long distances to see a specialist or dentist. A proposed amendment to the law should open the way for cross-border health care to be covered by Czech insurance companies.
People living in the border regions with Germany and Austria have been pushing for accessible cross-border health care for years.
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Author: Daniela Lazarová
Photo: Luděk Peřina, MFDNES + LN / Profimedia
A 5000-crown banknote, produced in April 1919 for the newly independent state of Czechoslovakia, was sold at auction on Friday 15th of November for 25.68 million crowns. It therefore became the most expensive paper currency ever sold within the country.
The red and elaborately decorated note, which neither the Czech National Bank nor the National Museum owns, went to auction with a starting price of 2.
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Author: Danny Bate
Photo: Moravské zemské muzeum Brno
This episode of Czech Music Greats looks at the unique genius of Leoš Janáček, through his 1915-18 rhapsody for orchestra Taras Bulba. Based on a novella by the Russian writer Nikolai Gogol, this rhapsody in three movements tells the tragic tale of the elderly Cossack Taras Bulba.
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Author: Barbora Navrátilová
Photo: Daniela Honigmann, Radio Prague International
Fair trade, the idea that shoppers should pay a fair price for crops grown in a sustainable and environmentally friendly way, is gaining recognition in Czechia.
In 2004, the idea of fair trade in the Czech Republic was still new, and efforts focused on introducing the concept and making certified products available for sale.
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Author: Vít Pohanka
Since moving to Czechia originally for the sole purpose of playing rugby, Nicolaas Uys has made a successful life for himself in Prague, with a business selling biltong, and as a cornerstone of the South African community in the city. He spoke to us about the story of bringing that community together.
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Photo: Ian Willoughby, Radio Prague International
The poet and veteran broadcaster Igor Pomerantsev has been living in Prague since the mid-1990s, when his station, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, moved to the Czech capital. Born in Russia but raised in Ukraine, Pomerantsev left the Soviet Union at the end of his 20s after being accused of circulating “anti-Soviet literature”. He and his family later settled in London, where he worked for the Russian section of the BBC World Service. I spoke to Igor Pomerantsev, who is today 76, at our studios in Vinohrady.
You were born in Russia but grew up in Ukraine.
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Author: Ian Willoughby
Photo: Prokop Havel, Czech Radio
Today, we’re marking the 35th anniversary of the Velvet Revolution, which saw the fall of the communist regime in Czechoslovakia. To celebrate, we’ll be listening to some of the songs that filled the public squares during those historic days—many of which still resonate in Czech society, including Marta Kubišová’s Prayer for Marta and Jaroslav Hutka’s Náměšť.
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Photo: Nathan Denette, PA Images/Profimedia
10 years ago, former goaltender Dominik Hašek became the first Czech NHL hockey player to be inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame. Induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame is a rare and prestigious honor, reserved for only a select few. In Canada, the ceremony garners attention on par with the Stanley Cup Finals.
Dominik Hašek’s induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto, Canada, marked the pinnacle of a remarkable career for the 59-year-old native of Pardubice.
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Photo: Wikimedia Commons, public domain
To commemorate the anniversary of the death of the great Moravian thinker and religious leader John Amos Comenius, Danny Bate spoke to scholar Lenka Pospíšilová about his life, legacy and relevance for the modern world.
On November 15th 1670, a giant of seventeenth-century intellectual life died in the Dutch city of Naarden.
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Author: Danny Bate
Photo: Charles Games
In October, the team at Charles Games, the creators of such games as Playing Kafka and Attentat 1942, released Velvet 89, an immersive and educational experience that invites players to turn investigator in five cities across Czechoslovakia. Ahead of the thirty-fifth anniversary of the Velvet Revolution on November 17th, Danny Bate spoke to designer, animator and university lecturer Ondřej Javora, who was behind the graphics of the new game.
“So the game is called Velvet 89, and it’s based on historical events.
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Author: Danny Bate
The President of the Republic Petr Pavel received the Vice President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam Vo Thi Anh Xuan at Prague Castle on Thursday, November 14, 2024.
At the official meeting between the Czech delegation and the Vietnamese delegation participate also H.E. Mr. Hoai Nam DUONG – the Ambassador of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam to the Czech Republic.
