Czech Radio Council
The Czech Radio Council is the body through which the public exercises its right to oversee the activities of Czech Radio. It is not part of the broadcaster’s internal organisational structure and is accountable to the Parliament of the Czech Republic.
Composition and appointment
The Council has nine members, each appointed for a six-year term. Members are elected and dismissed by the Czech Chamber of Deputies and the Senate in a manner intended to reflect significant regional, political, social and cultural currents within society.
Candidates are nominated by established legal entities representing a broad spectrum of public interests, including cultural, educational, social, scientific and minority communities. Council members hold a public office and are individually accountable to the parliamentary chamber that elected them.
Membership is subject to incompatibility and independence rules comparable to those applied to the Director General. Council members may not hold political office, engage in party political activities, participate in media-related business interests or maintain any professional or financial relationship with Czech Radio that could compromise their independence.
Powers and responsibilities
The Council’s remit covers both strategic oversight and institutional accountability. Its key responsibilities include:
- appointing and dismissing the Director General;
- approving the budget, financial statements and long-term development plans;
- supervising the efficient and lawful use of financial resources and assets;
- approving the Statute of Czech Radio and submitting the Code of Czech Radio for parliamentary approval;
- overseeing the fulfilment of public service obligations and compliance with the Code;
- deciding on the establishment or closure of regional stations;
- approving major legal acts and significant changes to public services;
- submitting annual activity and financial reports to both chambers of Parliament.
The Council elects its chair and two vice-chairs from among its members. It adopts decisions by majority vote and meets at least once a month. Its meetings are generally public, with limited exceptions defined by law.
Crucially, the Council and its members may not interfere directly in programme production or broadcasting content.