Strike at public service media in the Czech Republic

Employees of Czech public media are striking against the proposed abolition of broadcasting fees, fearing for their independence. The strike, initiated by a staff initiative and unions, has led to the cancellation of many current TV programs, replaced by reruns. The right-wing government plans to fund public broadcasting through the state budget instead of fees paid by households and businesses, which critics argue could lead to government control over the media. Proposed funding cuts of over 15% may result in job losses and program reductions. Organizations like the European Federation of Journalists warn that this funding model threatens editorial independence.