Czech Republic & Central Europe — 2026-03-23
200,000+ Rally at Letna Park Against Babis Government in Largest Czech Protest Since 1989
Over 200,000 people gathered at Prague's Letna Park in the largest demonstration since the Velvet Revolution, organized by Million Moments for Democracy. Protesters opposed parliament's rejection of lifting Babis's immunity in a EUR 2M EU subsidy fraud case (shielding him until 2029) and refusal to allow prosecution of Speaker Tomio Okamura on incitement charges. The government's proposed 'foreign agents' law — requiring NGOs receiving foreign aid to register or face heavy fines — drew particular ire. The coalition with anti-migrant SPD and right-wing Motorists has raised concerns over alignment with Hungary and Slovakia's pro-Russia posture and reduced Ukraine support.
Analysis
Prior INTSUM tracked 250,000 at Letná on March 21 (Million Moments). Today's 200,000+ figure suggests sustained mobilization rather than a one-off event. The protest movement's durability and scale — now the largest since the Velvet Revolution — marks a qualitative shift in Czech opposition dynamics.
Prior INTSUM tracked 250,000 at Letná on March 21 (Million Moments). Today's 200,000+ figure suggests sustained mobilization rather than a one-off event. The protest movement's durability and scale — now the largest since the Velvet Revolution — marks a qualitative shift in Czech opposition dynamics.