Czech news in brief for December 1: Monday’s top afternoon headlines

President Petr Pavel said Filip Turek must thoroughly explain ongoing issues around him to be considered for a ministerial post. Turek is a candidate for environment minister in the emerging ANO–SPD–Motorists government. Pavel cited public concerns and expectations for politicians, stressing that while Turek is not under prosecution, unresolved questions make him unsuitable for a cabinet role until clarified. “I respect that we have the presumption of innocence; that Turek is not being prosecuted,” Pavel added.

The Czech Statistical Office reports that in 2024, Czechs ate more meat, cheese, and vegetables, while fruit, sugar, and flour consumption declined. Alcohol intake fell, with beer down 2.7 liters per capita. Poultry consumption reached a record 30.9 kg per person, surpassing 30 kg for the first time. Mineral water and soft drink consumption rose, and the share of beef consumption fell from 32 percent in the middle of the last century to 11 percent last year.

From today, Prague will implement winter humanitarian measures, providing 700 beds, 100 “warm chair” spaces, and 70 crisis spots to support the homeless. Deputy Mayor Alexandra Udženija said the city has strengthened dormitories, field services, and hospital coordination. The Prague Social Services Centre will manage facilities, dispatch, and intervention teams, ensuring care throughout the winter period and rapid response to exceptional situations.

The Economic Chamber of the Czech Republic forecasts 2.4 percent GDP growth in 2025, up 0.4 points from June, driven by household consumption and inventory gains. Growth is projected to slow to 2.3 percent in 2026 before rising to 2.7 percent in 2027. Real wages will rise 3.9 percent this year. Chamber president Zdeněk Zajíček expects corporate investment and net exports to further support economic expansion despite minor inventory and labor market adjustments.

The National Gallery Prague has unveiled the restored Madonna of Havraň, a 14th-century statue attributed to the Master of the Bečovská Madonna. Acquired by the Czech state in 2021, the linden-wood sculpture depicts the Virgin Mary with baby Jesus, supported by angels. Curator Adéla Pavlíčková highlighted the veil and Marian belt motifs tied to Charles IV. The restoration enhances the gallery’s modest collection of Charles IV-era sculptures.