EditMassive anti-Babiš protest fills Prague streets in defence of democracy and EU values
Speakers warned against the erosion of democratic institutions, and highlighted concerns over a proposed "foreign agent" law that could target civil society
Tens of thousands of Czech citizens converged on Letná Plain on Saturday, in one of the largest anti-government demonstrations since 2019, voicing strong opposition to Prime Minister Andrej Babiš and his coalition government’s policies.
Organizers from the Million Moments for Democracy movement estimated crowds exceeding 200,000, though official figures varied, with many participants waving Czech and European Union flags as symbols of their pro-EU stance.
The rally, held under slogans like “We Will Not Let Our Future Be Stolen,” focused on fears of democratic backsliding under Babiš’s leadership. The populist billionaire, whose ANO party returned to power in December 2025 after forming a coalition with right-wing and far-right partners including the anti-migrant Freedom and Direct Democracy (SPD) and the Motorists for Themselves party, has drawn criticism for alliances seen as steering the country toward illiberal models akin to Hungary and Slovakia.
Protesters expressed alarm over planned cuts to defence spending, potential curbs on public media independence, and a perceived shift away from strong support for Ukraine amid Russia’s ongoing invasion. Many accused the government of adopting a more pro-Russian tilt in foreign policy, rejecting key EU positions on environment, migration, and aid to Kyiv. Speakers warned against the erosion of democratic institutions, including NGOs, and highlighted concerns over a proposed “foreign agent” law that could target civil society groups.
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The demonstration remained largely peaceful, echoing the spirit of historic gatherings at Letná during the 1989 Velvet Revolution that helped topple communism. Participants carried signs criticizing Babiš’s “arrogance of power” and voiced support for President Petr Pavel, who has clashed with the government on several issues. EU and NATO flags were prominent, underscoring the crowd’s commitment to Western alliances and integration.
Babiš’s coalition has faced mounting backlash since taking office, including earlier protests in February supporting the president amid disputes over ministerial nominations. Critics argue the government’s nationalist agenda risks isolating the Czech Republic from mainstream EU policies and weakening its role in supporting Ukraine.
As one of the biggest shows of public discontent in recent years, yesterday’s rally signals deepening polarization in Czech society. With Babiš’s administration balancing its populist base against pro-Western pressures, the scale of the turnout suggests opposition remains robust and organized. Whether it translates into political change remains uncertain, but it has firmly placed concerns over democracy, EU alignment, and regional security at the center of national debate.
With Reuters and Bloomberg.
Caption: A protester waves a Czech (R) and a European flag as crowds gather at Letna Plain for the ‘We Will Not Let Our Future Be Stolen’ anti-government demonstration, in Prague, Czech Republic, 21 March 2026. According to the organizers Million Moments for Democracy, the mass protest drew hundreds of thousands to defend democratic values and civic engagement while pushing back against media pressure, defense cuts, and the erosion of state institutions. EPA/MARTIN DIVISEK
Updated: March 22, 2026 - 07:50
