Czech Republic Country Report

The Czech Republic is stable although fragile coalitions tend to lead to frequent early elections. Eurozone-related structural reforms will likely represent the greatest challenge to stability. Protests occur on a range of issues, although they are generally peaceful. There are no current conflict threats and international relations are generally cordial, despite some tension with Russia over US missile defense plans. The risk of attacks staged by Islamist militants is lower than in Western Europe. The main threat to travelers is from opportunistic street crime such as pick-pocketing in tourist areas and on public transportation. Extortion scams involving female assailants target male travelers in nightclubs and result in inflated bar tabs and the threat of violence for failing to pay. Violent crime is rare, but assaults and armed robberies do occur. There are no serious risks associated with air travel and the country's airlines and airports are considered safe for use. While occasional hazardous local driving habits can elevate the risks of self-driving, overland travel is generally not a concern. Medical care is generally of a reasonable standard and is good within Prague and major cities. The Czech Republic is in an active seismic zone and is susceptible to periodic minor earthquakes. The country is prone to flooding due to heavy rain, particularly between the months of May and August.

Czech Republic is a member of the European Union, the European Economic Area (EEA), and the Schengen zone.

Crime is the main threat against travelers. Bag-snatching and pick-pocketing does occur, particularly in areas where travelers congregate. Violent crime is rare. Demonstrations and acts of civil disobedience are generally peaceful. Anti-Roma and anti-immigration demonstrations are likely to turn violent; police use of force is unlikely to result in major property damage. Far-right demonstrations can turn violent. Strikes can disrupt commerce and travel across the country.

Air travel is safe and in compliance with international safety standards.

Road conditions are generally good and approach Western European standards - however, road conditions can be poor in the winter.

Ports are considered to be efficient. However, Cyprus depends on the ports of neighboring nations such as the Port of Hamburg and Antwerp for carrying out its international trade.

Access to utilities is comparable to other developed countries.

Cyber attacks target both organizations and individuals.

The Czech Republic has warm, dry summers and cold winters. Flooding during the spring and summer can damage property and cause disruption to travel. Winter storms can cause traffic disruptions, closures and delays across the country. Sporadic minor, earthquakes do occur but cause no injuries or damage.

The country does not face any outstanding health risks. Travel in forested areas brings the risk of exposure to tick-borne diseases. Healthcare facilities are generally excellent and are easily accessible in major urban centers. Medical insurance is essential to cover the cost of treatment. Pharmacies are widely available and are generally well-stocked with prescription medicine and over-the-counter drugs. Tap water is considered safe for drinking unless otherwise specified.

The Czech Republic is a unitary multi-party parliamentary republic. The Prime Minister is the head of government and the President is the head of state. The Prime Minister and the Cabinet form the government and exercise executive power. Presidential elections take place once every five years. The parliament consists of the Chamber of Deputies (lower house) and the Senate (upper house) and exercises legislative power. Parliamentary elections take place once every four years. Senate elections replacing a third of Senate members take place once every two years. The judiciary is independent of the executive and the legislature.

Coalitions featuring a cross-section of political parties are typically required to form the government. Government collapses are rare. State institutions are competent and effective and provide reliable services across the country.