Critics warn new legislation could tighten state control over civil society
A new political controversy is unfolding in the Czech Republic after reports that the government of Prime Minister Andrej Babiš is preparing legislation that would significantly tighten regulation of non-profit organisations. Critics say the proposal resembles laws used in Russia to restrict civil society groups.
The proposed legislation is being developed by members of the governing coalition and advisers linked to Babiš’s political movement. Early drafts reportedly aim to introduce stricter oversight of non-profits operating in the country.
Supporters of the measure argue that tighter regulation is needed to increase transparency and monitor the influence of organisations receiving foreign funding. Opponents warn that the proposal could undermine democratic institutions and weaken independent civil society.
What the Proposed Law Would Do
According to reporting on the draft proposal, the legislation would place tougher requirements on non-governmental organisations, including additional reporting obligations and stronger government oversight.
The draft was reportedly prepared by Natálie Vachatová, an adviser connected to smaller nationalist political circles and a member of the Trikolora party.
Members of the Czech opposition say the changes could restrict the activities of civic groups and make it harder for non-profits to operate freely.
Ivan Bartoš, a member of parliament from the Pirate Party and a former minister, warned that the proposal could represent a troubling shift if enacted, arguing that such laws risk weakening democratic safeguards.
Why Critics Call It a “Russian-Style” Law
The controversy stems from comparisons with legislation adopted in Russia over the past decade.
Russia’s “foreign agent” and “undesirable organisations” laws allow authorities to label certain groups as security threats, impose heavy restrictions on their activities, and even shut them down.
Human-rights advocates across Europe say similar frameworks have been used by some governments to stigmatize civil society groups and limit political opposition.
Because of those precedents, critics fear that adopting comparable policies in the Czech Republic could weaken democratic norms within the European Union.
A Divisive Political Landscape
The debate is also tied to broader political tensions surrounding Babiš’s return to power.
The billionaire populist leader returned as prime minister after the 2025 election, forming a coalition government that includes nationalist and far-right parties.
His government has taken a more eurosceptic stance on several issues and has faced criticism over its approach to foreign policy and relations with Ukraine.
Babiš himself remains one of the most controversial political figures in the country, frequently criticised over alleged conflicts of interest related to his business empire and political influence.
Civil Society Groups Raise Alarm
Non-profit organisations and democracy advocates say the proposed law could intimidate civic groups and reduce the space for independent activism.
In recent years, tensions between populist political movements and NGOs have grown across parts of Central and Eastern Europe, where governments have increasingly accused civil society groups of promoting foreign interests or political agendas.
Critics argue that weakening the non-profit sector could damage public oversight and accountability in government.
What Happens Next
For now, the legislation remains in the drafting stage, and it is not yet clear whether it will pass parliament.
But the proposal has already triggered a major debate within the Czech Republic and across Europe about the future of civil society and democratic institutions in the region.
As the controversy grows, the fight over the law is shaping into a broader question:
Will tighter oversight strengthen transparency or open the door to greater political control over independent organisations?
