European Parliament sets June 1 for debate on Czech media

The European Parliament has confirmed that it has scheduled a debate on the possible abuse of the media in the Czech Republic on June 1. The debate is not expected to conclude with a final resolution. The debate has been sparked in part by the release of tapes purportedly featuring ANO leader Andrej Babiš and a journalist about the release of material to his Czech newspapers discrediting other politicians. The European Commission would normally be expected to take a position over the issue. Babiš owns two of the country’s biggest national newspapers as well as the country’s biggest commercial radio station. The tapes appear to discredit his pledge that his does not involve himself in editorial coverage.

Author: Chris Johnstone