Czech Republic & Central Europe — 2026-03-25
Czech Centers to Close Stockholm, Milan, and Tbilisi Branches Over Foreign Ministry Budget Cuts
Three of 26 Czech Centers worldwide will close this summer after Foreign Ministry budget cuts forced a "reassessment of priorities." The closures in Stockholm, Milan, and Tbilisi reduce the cultural diplomacy and soft-power network at a time when the Babis government is simultaneously cutting defense spending and facing international criticism over democratic backsliding. The Tbilisi closure is notable given Georgia ongoing EU accession process and Czech Republic historical role in supporting Eastern Partnership countries.
Analysis
Closing the Tbilisi center while Georgia navigates EU accession and faces Russian hybrid pressure sends a contradictory signal about Czech foreign policy priorities under Babis. Stockholm and Milan closures reduce Czech cultural presence in two key EU partner capitals at a time when the government faces criticism over democratic backsliding.
Closing the Tbilisi center while Georgia navigates EU accession and faces Russian hybrid pressure sends a contradictory signal about Czech foreign policy priorities under Babis. Stockholm and Milan closures reduce Czech cultural presence in two key EU partner capitals at a time when the government faces criticism over democratic backsliding.
1 sources
- Three of 26 Czech Centres around world to close -
Radio Prague International