CIVICUS discusses the Czech Republic’s parliamentary election with Lukáš Hilpert, president of Million Moments for Democracy, a Czech civic movement that mobilises people to defend democracy and demand government accountability.

The Czech parliamentary election on 3 and 4 October pits centre-right current Prime Minister Petr Fiala’s Spolu (‘Together’) alliance against populist former Prime Minister Andrej Babiš’s ANO (‘Yes’) party. With no party expected to win a majority, post-election coalition negotiations will likely determine whether the Czech Republic strengthens its democratic institutions and European ties, or shifts towards populism. The outcome is being closely watched across Europe.

Why does Babiš remain popular despite having faced fraud accusations?

Economic pressures are at the heart of this election: inflation, high energy bills and the cost of living crisis affect every household. Voters are judging parties by whether they can deliver immediate relief. Many compare today’s situation under Fiala’s government with their memories of Babiš’s time in power, when the economy was more predictable and stable. That comparison fuels frustration with the current leadership and explains why some are willing to give Babiš another chance.

However, Babiš’s populist messaging offers simple solutions to complex problems. For many voters, promises of quick fixes to economic hardship feel more tangible than abstract concerns about corruption or threats to democracy. But his popularity has a price. By focusing on short-term promises and cultivating a strongman image, Babiš downplays the serious risks of concentrating power and ignoring conflicts of interest. His legal troubles may seem distant to people struggling with daily bills, but they raise serious questions about transparency and accountability.

When people feel abandoned, they become more vulnerable to populist shortcuts and easy promises. Civil society has a duty to remind citizens that democracy isn’t just about getting cheaper groceries today; it’s about protecting freedoms, institutions and accountability. Without that perspective, anger over rising prices can be exploited by those who prioritise power over principles.

What role will coalition negotiations play in shaping the outcome?

No single party is expected to win a majority, so coalition talks will decide who governs. Smaller parties can tip the balance toward either a democratic coalition or a more extremist one. Critically, this vote isn’t just about domestic politics; it could also shape how the Czech Republic is seen internationally and influence its role in the European Union (EU) and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).

ANO could seek support from far-right groups such as the Freedom and Direct Democracy party or the new STAČILO! (‘enough!’) movement. These groups often criticise the EU, question sanctions on Russia and oppose deeper NATO cooperation. If they gain influence, they could undermine the Czech Republic’s credibility abroad and weaken democratic norms domestically.

If smaller democratic and pro-European parties cross the five per cent threshold to enter parliament and help form a coalition, they can prevent extremists becoming kingmakers. This would show a clear commitment to European integration, regional security and transatlantic cooperation, reassuring allies and strengthening the Czech Republic’s influence in EU and NATO decisions.

What might happen?

Things could go either way. If extremist parties enter government or gain real influence, it would mark a major shift in Czech politics. If pro-democratic parties win enough support to form a coalition, a transition from one government to another of the kind that happens in any healthy democracy would result. Voters would simply be choosing the leadership they trust more without changing the country’s overall direction.

Ultimately, it will all depend on voter turnout, so every vote matters. These elections will decide whether the Czech Republic strengthens democracy and European cooperation, or puts them at risk. If people participate in high numbers, the balance is more likely to reflect mainstream democratic choices rather than fringe or extremist gains.