The Czech Republic is witnessing a major political realignment. Three parties — ANO, Zmotoryzovani (Motorists), and SPD (Freedom and Direct Democracy) — have agreed to form a new right-wing, eurosceptic, and anti-immigration coalition government under the leadership of former prime minister Andrej Babiš. The announcement marks a decisive shift in the country’s political landscape and could have far-reaching consequences for its relations with the European Union and regional partners.
At the heart of the coalition’s program is a strong rejection of what it sees as excessive EU interference in national affairs. The alliance has pledged to oppose the EU’s ETS2 climate regulation system, which expands carbon pricing to transport and housing sectors. Babiš and his allies argue that the measure would unfairly burden ordinary citizens and harm Czech industry. Instead, the new government plans to expand nuclear energy production as the backbone of the nation’s energy independence, positioning nuclear power as a pragmatic alternative to costly green transition policies imposed by Brussels.
On social and migration issues, the coalition has adopted a hardline stance. It has promised zero tolerance for illegal immigration, the rejection of the EU migration pact, and tighter border security. The parties’ joint statement frames these measures as essential for protecting national sovereignty and ensuring internal stability.
Domestically, the coalition plans to cap the retirement age at 65, countering recent proposals to raise it due to demographic pressures. The parties also reaffirmed their commitment to preserving the Czech koruna, rejecting the possibility of joining the eurozone. Together, these policies reflect a broader vision of economic and political self-determination, echoing trends seen in other Central European states.
Internationally, the new government’s foreign policy will seek to reform the European Union from within while strengthening cooperation within the Visegrád Group (V4), comprising Poland, Hungary, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic. The coalition has also emphasized the importance of maintaining strong strategic relations with the United States, friendly ties with Israel, and a diplomatic approach to achieving peace in Ukraine.
For many observers, the formation of this coalition marks a turning point in Czech politics, moving the country closer to the populist and nationalist models seen in Budapest and Warsaw. Andrej Babiš, who previously served as prime minister from 2017 to 2021, is returning to power with a renewed mandate rooted in social conservatism, economic pragmatism, and skepticism toward Brussels’ federal ambitions.
If the coalition solidifies its parliamentary majority, Prague could soon become one of the loudest voices advocating for a rebalanced, sovereign Europe — one that prioritizes national interests over central EU directives. Whether this marks a new era of assertive Czech independence or deepens political divides within the EU remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the Czech Republic is preparing for a new course, one that could redefine its role in Europe and the region.
