TOP 09 Presented Program Priorities for a Modern and Resilient Czech Republic

“Populism cannot be defeated with even more populism. Credibility, competence, and the courage to stand up for what is right, even when it is not the easiest path, are our answer to the growing distrust in politics. While others offer more debt, cheap promises, and convenient shortcuts, TOP 09 comes forward with a program built on responsibility, freedom, education, and sound public finances. Seventeen years ago, our party was founded to defend values that the Czech Republic still needs today. Today’s policy conference confirmed that we are ready to offer a vision that will stand the test not only of the next election, but of the next decade as well,” said TOP 09 Chairman Matěj Ondřej Havel.

One of the conference’s main themes was national security, ranging from defence and energy security to the protection of democratic institutions.

“Clean energy, a healthy landscape, strong defence, and a resilient society are the four pillars of a secure and prosperous country. The Czech Republic must be prepared to face military threats, energy dependency, the impacts of climate change, and hybrid attacks. That is why we advocate modernising the armed forces, investing in energy security, protecting strategic natural resources, and strengthening societal resilience. By 2035, we aim to increase defence spending to 3.5 percent of GDP and invest an additional 1.5 percent of GDP in broader national security. Only then will the Czech Republic rank among the best-prepared and most resilient countries in Europe,” said Member of Parliament Helena Langšádlová.

A significant part of the programme was also devoted to public finances, the competitiveness of the Czech economy, and the fastest possible accession of the Czech Republic to the eurozone, which would further anchor the country within the European Union.

“Responsible management of public finances is the path to economic growth. The ever-increasing budget deficits planned by the current government must come to an end. We must also think about future generations, who would otherwise be forced to repay today’s debts at the expense of their own opportunities. TOP 09 firmly supports the Czech Republic’s accession to the eurozone. Remaining outside the eurozone is becoming increasingly costly, while adopting the euro would strengthen the stability of the Czech economy, the competitiveness of our businesses, and the Czech Republic’s position in Europe. We also want to deepen the European single market, expand cross-border energy interconnections, and support innovative companies. All these steps pursue the same goal: strengthening the prosperity and resilience of both the Czech Republic and the European Union,” said Member of the European Parliament Luděk Niedermayer.

TOP 09 members and invited guests also devoted a discussion panel to the defence of democracy, the rule of law, and independent media, which they argued are currently being attacked and weakened by the governing coalition.

“Independent public service media constitute the fourth pillar of power. The government does not even attempt to hide its intention to gain control over public service media and influence their broadcasting. The brutal cuts being proposed have never appeared in any party’s election programme. No professional or substantive debate has been allowed. We are witnessing a transition from democracy to an authoritarian regime. Civil society must stand up and defend democratic values,” said TOP 09 Senator Břetislav Rychlík.

The discussions also focused on the position of the younger generation and the issue of affordable housing. Thanks to TOP 09, a legislative proposal is currently under consideration that would allow voting in municipal elections from the age of 16, as is already the case in Austria.

“If we expect young people to take responsibility for their future, we must also give them the opportunity to influence it. That is why we support voting rights from the age of 16 in municipal elections. At the same time, we need to address the issues that affect their lives most directly. Housing is one of them. Owning a home or having access to affordable rental housing should not be a luxury or an unattainable dream. The younger generation needs concrete measures that will enable them to become independent, start families, and plan their future in the Czech Republic,” concluded TOP 09 Vice-Chairman Ondřej Müller.

The Modern and Resilient Czech Republic policy conference set the direction for the preparation of TOP 09’s election programme for the upcoming parliamentary elections. Detailed policy proposals are attached to this press release.