What EU Policy to Expect from the incumbent Czech Government?

In his speech, PM Babiš rejected the Commission ́s proposal for the next Multiannual Financial Framework. His main objection revolves around the total size of the budget. Mr. Babiš criticizes the fact that the Commission proposed an increase of the MFF by around 23% in current terms, although the UK, which comprises 15% of the EU ́s population is leaving the Union.

The Czech Prime Minister has been a strong proponent of a reform of the European Union, stating repeatedly that the EU has to change in order to regain the trust of its citizens. According to Mr. Babiš, the EU has given up on its original purpose - the creation of a prosperous and safe continent, which in his mind significantly harms the project’s reputation.

Personnel change in the public administration, a fickle Prime Minister changing his views according to the latest opinion polls and a rather Eurosceptic population will make the Czech Republic a difficult partner to negotiate with. It is very unlikely that Czechs would come up with any new and bright idea that would help the EU to address challenges such as migration and asylum policy.