Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021
CZECH REPUBLIC
Overall risk level
Medium Exercise caution
Not completely safe, but typically presents predictable security risks
Travel is possible, but there is a potential for disruptions Overview
Emergency Numbers
Medical 155
Upcoming Events
There are no upcoming events scheduled
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 2 Travel Advisories
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 3 Summary
The Czech Republic is a Medium Risk destination: exercise caution. Medium Risk locations are not completely safe, but typically present predictable security risks. Travel is possible, but there is a potential for disruptions.
Covid-19 Medium Risk Health authorities confirmed the country's first cases of the novel coronavirus (COVID- 19) on 1 March 2020. Despite the spread of the delta virus variant, infection rates in the country remain low. Most measures have been relaxed or lifted.
Political Instability Low Risk The Czech Republic is a largely conservative nation with a stable multi-party democracy, a robust welfare system and a healthy economy. President Miloš Zeman is from the far-right, but state institutions are relatively strong and independent, with respect for civil rights. While the Czech parliament consists of two chambers, most of the legislative powers are concentrated in the lower house, the Chamber of Deputies. The country is a member of both the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) and the European Union (EU).
Conflict Low Risk The country is not party to any conflict with other states or non-state actors. It is a member of the European Union (EU) and NATO.
Terrorism Low Risk The country is not a priority target nor a haven for any known terror groups; security forces are trained and equipped to handle threats.
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 4 Unrest Moderate Risk Protests occur regularly in Prague, particularly in Wenceslas and Republic squares, as well as on Freedom Square in Brno, but they are usually peaceful. Protests over sports or by neo-Nazi groups may turn violent, but they are relatively rare.
Crime Low Risk Violent crime is uncommon, but street and petty crime is possible in Prague, particularly on public transport or other crowded public areas. Police services are reliable.
Natural and Environmental Low Risk Flooding is possible especially in summer and autumn, but the country’s infrastructure and emergency response services are strong and capable of mitigating risk and limiting disruptions.
Health and Medical Low Risk The country has an excellent health care system and medical professionals are often multilingual and are all highly trained. High-quality prescription drugs are widely available and infectious diseases present little to no risk to travellers.
Local Travel Moderate Risk The country has an extensive public transport network that is reliable and safe, but there have been accidents involving trams in recent years and petty crime is a problem. Air travel, however, is problem free. Vehicular travel can be dangerous due to widespread poor driving habits and variable road conditions.
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 5 Political Overview : Low Risk
As the head of state, the president has the power to appoint the government and the prime minister. The post of the president has been held by far-right Miloš Zeman since 2013. In January 2018, Zeman was re-elected with over 51 percent of the vote in the run-off round over pro-western academic Jiri Drahos who won 48 percent of the vote. Known for his anti-immigration and anti-Islam statements, Zeman was backed by a bloc of predominantly rural and older voters.
In the October 2017 parliamentary elections the ANO (“Yes”) party led by billionaire and former finance minister Andrej Babiš won 78 of 200 seats in parliament with 29.6 percent of the vote, far ahead of the centre-right Civic Democrats (ODS) that followed second with 11 percent of the vote. With over ten percent of the vote each, the Pirate Party and the far-right Freedom and Direct Democracy (SPD) entered parliament for the first time as the third and fourth largest parties. On the other hand, the centre-left Social Democrats (ČSSD), which led the outgoing coalition with ANO and the Christian Democrats (KDU-ČSL), fell to sixth place with just seven percent of the vote, the party’s worst result since the country split with Slovakia in 1993. The 2017 elections marked the first election with neither the ODS nor the ČSSD on top. ANO’s success underscored the appeal of Babiš as an anti-establishment candidate who vowed to fight corruption and oppose the EU’s immigration policy that were key issues in the election.
Following the ANO’s win, struggles in forming a government continued into 2018 as multiple parties ruled out forming a coalition due to a graft accusation against Babiš. In January 2018, parliament voted 78-117 against the ANO minority government in a vote of no confidence – a step that must be taken for every new government according to the Czech constitution – forcing the one-party government to resign six weeks after the swearing-in ceremony. After President Zeman subsequently re-appointed Babiš as prime minister, the ANO government formed a coalition with the Social Democrats and the Communist Party. Parliament approved the new cabinet with 105 votes among the 196 present in July 2018. In addition to ending the nine-month struggle to form a coalition, the vote will see the Communist Party become part of government for the first time since the 1989 Velvet Revolution that ended communist one-party rule. Months after the coalition was confirmed, the ruling parties suffered a setback in the October 2018 Senate elections: while the Social Democrats and the ANO merely
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 6 gained one seat each, 10 of the 11 opposition candidates from the Civic Democrats (ODS) won, making the party the largest in the 81-seat upper house alongside the Mayors and Independents (STAN) party. However, the results of the vote are unlikely to undermine the ruling coalition as the upper house has limited powers, such as a veto that can be overridden by the lower house.
The results of the 2017 lower house election and 2018 presidential vote underscored widespread opposition to immigration in the wake of the 2015 European migrant crisis. Immigration has been surveyed as a key concern, despite the country having one of the lowest number of asylum seekers in the EU: among some 1.2 million asylum seekers across the EU, only about 1,400 asylum seekers sought protection in the Czech Republic in 2016. After propelling Zeman and the ANO to power, concerns on immigration are likely to drive further disagreements between the country and the EU in the medium-term. This is likely to continue under Zeman’s latest term as president, a role that has very limited formal powers, but is driven by his personal diplomacy of closer relations with Russia and China.
There are no recent incidents
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 7 Conflict : Low Risk
The Czech Republic is a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) and the European Union (EU). The country's 'Velvet Divorce' in 1993 from Slovakia, with which it had formed Czechoslovakia, came about peacefully. There are no ongoing ethnic or bilateral disputes likely to result in conflict.
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 8 Terrorism
No significant attacks have taken place in the country, and very few Czech nationals have been reported going abroad to fight for foreign militant organisations. While security forces are on alert for potential attacks, no plots that have been publicly reported were close to fruition when they were disrupted by the authorities, such as an alleged 2006 conspiracy by Islamist militants to attack Jewish synagogues in Prague that apparently never advanced to the planning stages.
No major terrorist attacks have taken place in the country since independence and no specific plots have been uncovered. Although Islamist militant groups such as al- Qaeda or the Islamic State (IS) have made threats against the country, police have not uncovered any developed plots; only in February 2017 was any Czech national arrested for alleged ties to IS and attempting to go fight in Syria.
Response Preparedness: The Czech Republic maintains a rapid response team as part of their police force. This body of officers is specialised and professionalyl trained in fighting terrorism. The team maintains regular contact with a number of similar European outfits and ones in the United States.
There are no recent incidents
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 9 Unrest : Moderate Risk
Annual Protests: Each May Day (1 May) there are demonstrations in Prague led by a wide range of activist groups across the political spectrum. These are predominantly peaceful, but can attract anarchists or far-right extremists and counter-demonstrators; two people were injured in 2016 during the May Day rallies, though no injuries were reported in 2017. Demonstrations are largely peaceful, however.
Demonstrations both in support and in opposition to the government are common on 17 November, the anniversary of the start of the 1989 uprising that sparked the Velvet Revolution. Protests are generally non-violent, however there is a low risk that rival demonstrators could clash. Typical flashpoint protest locations include the Albertov campus of Charles University, the central Národní street and the presidential office in Prague Castle.
Sports-related Riots: The Czech Republic has had increasing problems with football hooliganism. Fights in and around football grounds are common on days when big matches are being played. Most large teams have hooligan gangs but the worst affected teams are AC Sparta Praha, SK Slavia Praha, Ostrava and Brno. The majority of football violence is organised in advance between hooligan groups and poses only a low risk to travellers. However, you should consult local media sources for information of match fixtures and avoid areas where large groups of fans congregate.
Extremist Gangs: Over the last decade, the Czech Republic has seen a growth in the number of neo-Nazi gangs. Violence involving these groups has increased, with the main targets being left-wing youths and recent immigrants. Attacks have so far not targeted foreign nationals, but travellers are advised to avoid all far-right political gatherings due to the risk of unrest.
Recent incidents
07 August 2021 - 08 August 2021 Moderate risk: March for Equality to be held in Prague The Reclaim Pride group will hold a March for Equality at Hradčany Square, located in front of Prague Castle, from 13:00 local time (11:00 GMT).
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 10 Crime : Low Risk
Crimes Against Women: In the Prague's Old Town and New Town nightlife areas, there have been incidences of female travellers being the victim of date rape drugging attacks. Female travellers have been assaulted after unknowingly drinking alcoholic beverages spiked with various drugs, including Rohypnol, GHB, triazolam, scopolamine, burundaga, ketamine and ecstasy. Most cases take place at nightclubs and hotel bars, where assailants spike open containers or beverages, rendering their victim incapacitated and vulnerable to assault. Symptoms include extreme drowsiness, nausea and confusion. Travellers should never leave their drinks unattended or accept drinks they did not see being poured, especially from strangers. Be alert to attempts to spike your drink even when holding it.
Organised Crime: Organised crime groups in the Czech Republic are involved in activities such as narcotics, arms, and human trafficking, as well as vehicle theft, embezzlement and prostitution. Many of them have links with former Soviet states or with syndicates in the Balkan states. Domestic and foreign groups are known to use the country's financial institutions and gaming establishments for money laundering. Visitors to the Czech Republic are usually not affected by such activity, however should avoid association with members of any groups or individuals they suspect are involved in organised crime.
Credit Card Fraud: Credit card fraud in the Czech Republic has increased in recent years. Travellers should only use credit cards when an electronic transaction is possible and when the transaction can be completed directly in front of them. Never let a clerk, sales assistant or waiter take a card to another location for the transaction to be processed. If this cannot be avoided, visitors should insist upon going with the individual to the point of sale to witness the transaction. Keep an eye on the card at all times. In some cases, assailants pretending to be police officers have claimed to be monitoring the amount of money being carried by travellers, before stealing cards from wallets. Travellers should keep a 24-hour emergency number for their ATM card on hand to prevent illegal withdrawals from their account if they believe they have fallen victim to such fraud.
There are no recent incidents
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 11 Law
The Czech Republic's legal system is based on the civil law model, with roots in the Austro-Hungarian legal system. The country's judiciary is independent from executive interference and penalties for crime do not include the death penalty. All foreign nationals visiting the country are required to abide by Czech law.
Drugs and Alcohol: You must be 18 years or older to purchase alcohol in the Czech Republic. The country implements a zero tolerance approach to driving under the influence of alcohol. Those caught drinking and driving are subject to fines of between CZK25,000 and CZK50,000 (approximately USD1,279 to USD2,558). Imprisonment is also a possibility for serious offences.
Authorities are equally intolerant of the use, possession or trafficking of illegal drugs. Travellers caught in possession of small quantities of illegal substances could face hefty fines, and those caught with amounts deemed large enough to sell face imprisonment. Although marijuana laws in the Czech Republic are famously liberal, they are also somewhat unclear. This has led to a number of travellers receiving suspended prison sentences for possession of the drug. It is advisable to avoid marijuana and all other illegal drugs in the Czech Republic.
Traffic Laws: The Czech Republic requires that all drivers display a road usage tax sticker while driving on major highways. Stickers are available from petrol stations, and travellers renting vehicles should ensure that their cars are properly tagged. Headlights must be switched on at all times when driving and traffic moves on the right. Speed limits are 50kph (31mph) in built up areas, 90kph (55mph) in rural areas and 130kph (80mph) on motorways. Police enforce limits using radar detectors. It is illegal in the Czech Republic to leave the scene of an accident, and this can result in heavy fines. Travellers involved in traffic accidents should remain with the vehicle until authorities have arrived. For all traffic offences, fines up to CZK3,000 (approximately USD153) have to be paid on the spot. Police officers can also confiscate driver's licences on the spot.
Smoking Laws: Effective 31 May 2017, all smoking is banned at public venues, including entertainment venues, indoor sporting events and at all bars, nightclubs, restaurants and cafes. Offenders are liable for a fine of CZK5,000 (USD190).
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 12 Corruption
Travellers: Visitors are not likely to come across significant corruption. However, traffic or street police may offer to waive fines in exchange for immediate payments smaller than the amount of the fine. Visitors should always avoid paying bribes, and should report such offences to authorities. Travellers may also be affected by bureaucratic corruption in government departments.
Residents: Residents may face low-level corruption when dealing with government administrative offices. Political corruption has been present in the Czech Republic's local and national government for a number of years, particularly with regards to illegal acts of bribery and other financial scandals. Residents should always avoid paying bribes, and should report offences to senior management in the department concerned. Foreign nationals are viewed as an easy target by anti-corruption authorities.
Business: International businesses may be affected by administrative and more serious corruption in areas such as planning/building permits, licensing and contract negotiation. Both cash payments and significant gifts may be expected. When tendering for contracts in the Czech Republic, businesses should adhere to Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) conventions to avoid prosecution by their home country.
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 13 Security Services
The Czech Republic Police Force is responsible for maintaining law and public order in the country. The national police force is divided into a number of departments including the foreign and border police, traffic police, national anti-drug officers, and criminal police. The Municipal Police Force maintains public order within a municipality.
Efficiency: The efficiency of police in the Czech Republic has improved in recent years. However, the police force continues to suffer from a lack of resources and manpower, which may delay responses to emergency calls.
Professionalism: Czech police treat travellers with respect and are known to be very helpful. Multilingual officers are available throughout the country.
Areas Active: There is a heavier police presence in urban areas of the Czech Republic, as well as in areas frequented by travellers in the city's capital, Prague.
Force Strength: There are around 47,400 police officers deployed across the country.
Abuses/Miscarriages of Justice: In the last decade there have been numerous reports of Czech police failing to investigate or make arrests in cases of attacks on Roma people. In some circumstances police officers have even threatened abuse on Romas who have made complaints at police stations. However, in recent years the police force has gone under increased rejuvenation and new measures put into place to insure full investigations of human rights abuses.
Emergency Contact: All emergency services can be reached by dialling 112. Additionally, travellers can dial 129 to contact police. Emergency calls made from payphones are free of charge.
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 14 Natural Risks : Low Risk
Flooding is possible especially in summer and autumn, but the country’s infrastructure and emergency response services are strong and capable of mitigating risk and limiting disruptions.
Blizzards
Blizzards occur when severe winter storm conditions are accompanied by strong winds, producing wind-driven snow, dangerous wind chill and excessive accumulation of snow (drifting). Heavy accumulations of ice and snow can immobilise a region and paralyse a city, disrupting supply chains and compromising emergency and medical services. Electrical wires, telephone poles and lines and communication towers are vulnerable to disruption. Even small accumulations of ice may produce extreme hazards for motorists and pedestrians. Prolonged exposure to the cold may result in life-threatening medical conditions, including frost bite and hypothermia.
Heavy snowfall is common during wintertime. While unlikely to cause fatalities, blizzards can cause power outages and road closures.
Refrain from going outdoors during severe blizzards as prolonged exposure to the cold may result in life-threatening medical conditions, including frostbite and hypothermia. If you must go outside, cover your mouth to protect your lungs and walk carefully on snowy, icy pavement. Bear in mind that several layers of lightweight clothing will keep you warmer than a single heavy coat. Motorists should drive with deference to road coditions and avoid driving during severe snowstorms, while pedestrians should walk slowly on icy ground, particularly near stairs.
Flooding
A flood is an overflow of water that submerges land that is usually dry. It is normally triggered by an extended period of heavy rainfall and can be exarcebated by poor drainage systems in the affected area.
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 15 Flooding occurs periodically in the Czech Republic, especially from late summer to early autumn (August to October). Flooding is usually worse in the southern Bohemia region. The last major flooding in Prague occurred in August 2002. Described as the worst to hit the capital in 150 years, the floods paralysed much of the city, forced more than 40,000 people to evacuate and severely damaged the metro system. Karlín, Kampa and Holešovice were the worst affected districts. In the wake of the floods, authorities have strengthened anti-flood measures, installing mobile barriers in high- risk areas along the Vltava embankment and waterproof doors at metro stations.
If instructed of the possibility that flash-flooding may affect the area you are in, monitor local updates and move immediately to higher ground away from rivers, streams, creeks and storm drains. Though flash-flooding is commonly attributable to excess upstream precipitation, be aware that flooding can occur without typical warning signs of rain clouds or heavy rain. This is especially true near streams, drainage channels, canyons and other areas known to flood suddenly. If you happen across a flooded road in your car, turn around and drive in the opposite direction. When trapped on a flooded road, vacate your vehicle immediately and climb to higher ground.
Windstorms
Windstorms are generally categorised as storms with wind speeds strong enough to cause at least light damage to trees and buildings. Windstorms typically do not bring heavy rainfall.
Severe and devastating storms are known to occur in the Czech Republic. Although fatalities are rare, storms can cause significant disruption to travel and infrastructure, including electrical wires, telephone poles and lines, and communication towers. Falling trees also present a hazard. Bohemia in the southern Czech Republic is often the worst affected by such severe weather. In October 2017, at least four people were killed by falling trees during the passage of Cyclone Herwart, the most destructive storm since Storm Kyrill in 2007. Hundreds of fallen trees blocked rail lines and roads, while as many as 500,000 homes were left without power across the country.
Because meteorologists can commonly predict the likely onset of a storm, the most
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 16 effective way to mitigate physical risk is to monitor local weather updates and consider deferring travel in the event of a storm alert. Anticipate possible disruptions to overland travel caused by downed trees and power lines during and following strong gusts of wind. Confirm the viability of overland travel routes before departure.
There are no recent incidents
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 17 Health and Medical: Low Risk
Overview
The country has an excellent health care system and medical professionals are often multilingual and are all highly trained. High-quality prescription drugs are widely available and infectious diseases present little to no risk to travellers.
Before you travel
Consult your doctor or a healthcare provider who specialises in travel medicine at least six weeks before your departure. If you have a medical condition, you should also share your travel plans with your doctor.
Note: Requirements and recommendations for vaccines and other medicines are based on guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Documentation requirements are based on World Health Organisation guidelines.
Outbreaks
Malaria
There is no risk of malaria transmission.
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 18 Yellow Fever
There is no risk of Yellow Fever infection.
Vaccine requirement: None
Vaccine recommendation: None
Vaccinations, Medicines and Documentation
Recommended for all travellers
Measles
Infants (6 through 11 months old): 1 dose of measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine before travel. This dose does not count as the first dose in the routine childhood vaccination series. People 12 months old or older, with no evidence of immunity or no written documentation of any doses: 2 doses of MMR vaccine before travel. The 2 doses must be given 28 days apart. People 12 months old or older who have written documentation of 1 dose and no other evidence of immunity: 1 additional dose before travel, at least 28 days after the previous dose.
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 19 Recommended for most travellers
Hepatitis A
CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in the Czech Republic, regardless of where you are eating or staying.
Recommended for some travellers
Hepatitis B
You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.
Vaccinations, Medicines and Documentation
Required documentation
Yellow Fever entry requirement: No
Other entry requirements: None
Note: Documentation requirements are subject to change. Consult your destination embassy or consulate prior to departure for confirmation.
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 20 While you are there
Emergency Numbers
Medical: 155
Emergency services
Emergency services provided are of a high quality and reliable in urban areas, but access times may be slower in rural areas. Emergency medical staff are highly trained, and ambulances are well stocked with necessary supplies.
Evacuation
It is very unlikely medical evacuation would be required for injury or illness.
Routine care
The availability and quality of routine medical care is overall high. All healthcare professionals are highly trained to an international standard and access to multilingual professionals readily available in major cities and at private clinics; multilingual staff may not be readily available at more rural public health facilities, where English is not often spoken.
Medicine
High quality prescription drugs are widely available, and over-the-counter medicines readily available in stand-alone pharmacies as well as at supermarkets and corner shops. While travellers are unlikely to experience any difficulties in entering the country with their own prescription medicine, it is advisable that all prescription drugs are kept in their original container noting the patient’s name. Due to drug use regulations, most prescriptions filled in the country have short script lives and should be filled as soon as possible to avoid complications.
Payment
Czech citizens and legal residents in employment qualify for the free public healthcare system. Travellers with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) will receive the same
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 21 emergency care as Czech nationals, free of charge, though emergency care will not be refused to those lacking an EHIC. Up-front payment is expected for all routine non- emergency care, specialist visits and any follow-up treatments for prior emergency care. Some after-hours urgent care visits may require patients to pay a fee of CZK90 (EUR3.5), and doctors charge a nominal fee of CZK30 (EUR2) for a consultation. Private clinics charge in the range of CZK200-600 (EUR7-24) for a visit, which can rise to CZK1800 (EUR70) for some specialists.
Ailments
Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)
The H5N1 virus (avian influenza or bird flu) was first reported in March 2006. However, there have been no further confirmed cases or cases of human infection.
Avian influenza is a class of viral infections, including H5N1 and H7N9, which can be transmitted through contact with wild or domesticated birds. Symptoms are flu-like, and include fever, muscle aches, coughing, as well pneumonia and – in severe cases – respiratory failure. Treatment includes a course of antivirals.
Hepatitis (A, B, C, D and E)
Outbreaks of hepatitis A have occur with increased frequently in the Czech Republic since 2008 - including in Prague, Central Bohemia, South Moravia and the Olomouc region - but the overall risk to visitors is very low. The overall hepatitis B carrier rate in the general population is estimated between two to three percent, and hepatitis C is also at less than one percent. Sporadic and rare cases of hepatitis E are reported annually, but the risk to travellers is extremely low.
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 22 Hepatitis is inflammation of the liver. The three main variations (A, B and C) are caused by infections from parasites, bacteria or viruses, but are transmitted by different means.
Lyme disease
Lyme disease is a bacterial infection transmitted by ticks and is most prevalent in rural areas. Early symptoms include fever, swollen lymph nodes, fatigue headaches and a 'bullseye' shaped rash around the tick bite; later symptoms include arthritis, facial paralysis, memory loss, swollen joints, increased rashes and headaches and heart palpitations. In most cases Lyme disease can be treated with a course of antibiotics; a small number of cases may develop into Post-treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome (PTLDS), which may persist for a number of months.
Rabies
Most rabies in the Czech Republic is confined to animals, particularly bats.
Rabies is a serious viral infection, transmitted through close contact with saliva from infected animals (i.e. bites, scratches or licks on broken skin and mucous membranes). Travellers who suspect they may have come into contact with a rabies- infected animal should seek immediate emergency attention: post-exposure treatment has a high success rate if administered early. Late-stage rabies (when symptoms begin to occur) is untreatable and fatal.
Swine Flu variant (H1N1)
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 23 Swine flu variant (H1N1v) is a viral infection transmitted via close physical contact with infected pigs, by close physical contact with an infected person or via the coughing and sneezing of infected persons. Symptoms include fever, coughing, irritated eyes, vomiting, nausea, diarrhoea and lack of appetite. While there is no cure for swine flu, infected persons may receive a course of antivirals and antibiotics to alleviate severe symptoms.
Tick-borne Encephalitis (TBE)
Tick-borne encephalitis is a risk in the country's rural and forested regions, especially in southern Bohemia and Moravia.
Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a viral infection usually transmitted through the bite of an infected tick. Typically the disease occurs in two stages. The first is a mild-flu like illness. The second is a potentially serious infection of the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). TBE can at time be fatal in up to 20 percent of cases. Long-term neurological complications are common. Individuals are at increased risk if they visit areas where TBE is known to occur particularly in woodland or grassland. Travellers may reduce the risk of infection by avoiding risk areas and taking bite prevention measures.
Measles
As of May 2018, health authorities indicated that over 100 cases of the illness were registered in the country, including 70 in Prague. Officials blamed the increase on public scepticism of vaccines.
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection transmitted via coughing and sneezing from infected persons. Cold-like symptoms as well as fever are initially presented before a skin rash develops three to five days later. The measles vaccine is effective
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 24 at preventing the disease. There is no treatment once infected beyond rehydration and bed rest.
Recent incidents
23 August 2021 - 24 August 2021 Moderate risk: Officials ease entry requirements for vaccinated non-EU travellers Officials announced that vaccinated travellers are permitted entry from countries outside the European Union (EU) as of 23 August, provided that the vaccine is approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) or the World Health Organization (WHO), at least 14 days have passed since the final dose and the vaccine certificate is on the list of certificates recognised by the Ministry of Health.
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 25 Covid-19: Medium Risk
Summary
Health authorities confirmed the country's first cases of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) on 1 March 2020. Despite the spread of the delta virus variant, infection rates in the country remain low. Most measures have been relaxed or lifted.
What is the current nationwide Policy?: Opening
Policy starts: 12 April 2021 Policy ends: indef
Policy explanation:
While most venues are open, some facilities and events are only accessible to those with proof of vaccination, recovery or negative test result for COVID-19.
Policy source: https://covid.gov.cz/en/measures
Last update: 26 August 2021
Infection
Infection Level: Medium Infection rate: 24.4 cases per 100k in the last 14 days As of date: 22 August 2021 Hotspots:
Domestic Infection https://visalist.io/emergency/coronavirus/czech- Map: republic-country
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 26 International Travel
International Flights
Is there a ban on international commercial flights? No Through what date?
Flight Ban Explanation:
Czech Airlines and other carriers are predominantly operating international flights on European routes to and from Václav Havel Airport Prague (PRG/LKPR).
Last Update: 23 August 2021
Entry and Borders
Is there a ban on entry for any travellers? Partial Through what date? indef
Travellers from where are banned? Afghanistan, Algeria, American Samoa, Angola, Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Armenia, Aruba, Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Barbados, Belarus, Belize, Benin, Bermuda, Bhutan, Bolivia, Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba, Botswana, Brazil, British Virgin Islands, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cambodia, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Cayman Islands, Central African Republic, Chad, Chile, China, Cocos (Keeling) Islands, Colombia, Comoros, Congo-Brazzaville, Cook Islands, Costa Rica, Côte d'Ivoire, Cuba, Curaçao, Democratic Republic of Congo, Djibouti, Dominica, Dominican Republic, East Timor, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Faroe Islands, Fiji, French Guiana, French Polynesia, Gabon, Gambia, Georgia, Ghana, Gibraltar, Greenland, Grenada, Guadeloupe,
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 27 Guam, Guatemala, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, India, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jamaica, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kingdom of eSwatini, Kiribati, Kosovo, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Lesotho, Liberia, Libya, Madagascar, Malawi, Malaysia, Maldives, Mali, Marshall Islands, Martinique, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mexico, Micronesia, Moldova, Mongolia, Montenegro, Montserrat, Morocco, Mozambique, Myanmar, Namibia, Nauru, Nepal, New Caledonia, Nicaragua, Niger, Nigeria, North Korea, North Macedonia, Oman, Pakistan, Palau, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Puerto Rico, Reunion, Russia, Rwanda, Saint Barthelemy, Saint Martin, Samoa, Sao Tome & Principe, Senegal, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Sint Maarten, Solomon Islands, Somalia, South Africa, South Sudan, Sri Lanka, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Sudan, Suriname, Svalbard and Jan Mayen, Syria, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Togo, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Turks and Caicos, Tuvalu, Uganda, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States of America, Uruguay, US Virgin Islands, Uzbekistan, Vanuatu, Venezuela, Vietnam, Wallis and Futuna, West Bank and Gaza, Yemen, Zambia, Zimbabwe
Land border: Open Maritime border:
Entry Rules Explanation:
Non-essential travel is not permitted from countries outside the European Union (EU) and the Schengen Area. Nationals, long-term residents and permanent residents of low COVID-19 risk "green" countries - Albania, Australia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brunei, Canada, Hong Kong, Hungary, Japan, Jordan, Macau, New Zealand, Poland, Qatar, Romania, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Singapore, Slovakia, South Korea and Taiwan - are exempt. Travel for work or study, essential family travel or travel to a health care facility is permitted.
Only Czech nationals and residents are permitted entry from the "extreme" COVID-19 risk countries of Botswana, Brazil, Colombia, Eswatini, India, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Nepal, Paraguay, Peru, Russia, South Africa, Tanzania, Tunisia, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 28 Leisure travel is permitted from other EU member states and "green" non-EU countries with proof of vaccination, recovery or negative test for COVID-19. A valid proof of vaccination is required for non-essential travel from other non- EU countries.
https://www.mvcr.cz/mvcren/article/coronavirus-information- Entry Rules: of-moi.aspx
https://www.mvcr.cz/mvcren/file/protective-measure-of-the- Exemptions: ministry-of-healthcare-against-sars-cov-2.aspx
Last Update:
Testing
Do travellers need to take a COVID-19 test Yes When? Before travel, Upon arrival, After arrival Is it mandatory or optional? Mandatory Test Type: PCR, Antigen Minimum age requirement: Pre-travel test validity, in hours: 72 before Departure After arrival test days: 5, 10
Testing Explanation:
Countries are assessed low ("green"), medium ("orange"), high ("red"), very high ("dark red") or extreme ("black") for COVID-19 risk level. EU Digital COVID Certificate (EUDCC) holders and others with valid proof of recovery or vaccination against COVID-19 are exempt from testing. Transport workers, transiting travellers, diplomatic personnel, professional artists and athletes, cross-border workers and students, critical infrastructure workers and emergency personnel are also exempt from testing. Transiting travellers are exempt from testing, provided that their travel is not to a "black" country and that the duration of their travel does not exceed 12 hours, or 24 hours for
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 29 travel to neighbouring countries.
Before travel
Travellers who arrive from EU "green" or "orange" countries must present a negative COVID-19 test within five days after arrival. Tests that are taken before departure must not be older than 72 hours for PCR tests and no older than 48 hours for antigen tests.
Arrivals from "red", "dark red" or "black" countries must submit a PCR test no older than 72 hours before departure. Czech nationals and residents can present an antigen test instead of a PCR test. Those arriving by private transport from EU countries are exempt from pre-departure testing.
Upon arrival
Arrivals from "black" countries must take a PCR test within 24 hours of arrival.
After arrival
Travellers who arrive from EU "green" or "orange" countries must present a negative COVID-19 test within five days after arrival.
Arrivals from "red" or "dark red" countries must take a PCR test no earlier than five days after arrival.
Arrivals from "black" countries must take a PCR test no earlier than 10 days after arrival.
Testing https://www.mvcr.cz/mvcren/article/coronavirus-information-of- Rules: moi.aspx Last 24 August 2021 Update:
Health and Travel Documentations
Do arriving travellers need any health and/or travel documentation? Yes
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 30 Documentation Explanation:
Arriving passengers must notify local health authorities by completing a Public Health Passenger Locator Form.
Certain categories of travellers - including international transport workers, cross-border workers and students, third-country nationals seeking to enter for economic or educational purposes and unmarried partners of Czech residents - are also required to complete a certificate or a confirmation form.
Health https://plf.uzis.cz/ Document: Travel https://www.mvcr.cz/mvcren/article/certificate-and-confirmation- Document: form-for-entry-into-the-czech-republic.aspx Last 20 August 2021 Update:
Tracing App
Do travellers need to use a contact tracing app after arriving? Recommended
Tracing App Explanation:
"eRouška" (https://erouska.cz/en) is an optional contact tracing app.
IOS App: https://apps.apple.com/cz/app/erou%C5%A1ka/id1509210215 Andriod https://play.google.com/store/apps/details? App: id=cz.covid19cz.erouska Last 16 August 2021 Update:
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 31 Quarantine on Arrival
Who needs to quarantine on arrival Some travellers
Travellers from where need to quarantine? Afghanistan, Algeria, American Samoa, Andorra, Angola, Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Armenia, Aruba, Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Barbados, Belarus, Belgium, Belize, Benin, Bermuda, Bhutan, Bolivia, Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba, Botswana, Brazil, British Virgin Islands, Bulgaria, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cambodia, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Cayman Islands, Central African Republic, Chad, Chile, China, Cocos (Keeling) Islands, Colombia, Comoros, Congo- Brazzaville, Cook Islands, Costa Rica, Côte d'Ivoire, Cuba, Curaçao, Cyprus, Democratic Republic of Congo, Denmark, Djibouti, Dominica, Dominican Republic, East Timor, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Estonia, Ethiopia, Faroe Islands, Fiji, France, French Guiana, French Polynesia, Gabon, Gambia, Georgia, Ghana, Gibraltar, Greece, Greenland, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Guam, Guatemala, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Ireland, Israel, Jamaica, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kingdom of eSwatini, Kiribati, Kosovo, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Lesotho, Liberia, Libya, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Madagascar, Malawi, Malaysia, Maldives, Mali, Malta, Marshall Islands, Martinique, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mexico, Micronesia, Moldova, Monaco, Mongolia, Montenegro, Montserrat, Morocco, Mozambique, Myanmar, Namibia, Nauru, Nepal, Netherlands, New Caledonia, Nicaragua, Niger, Nigeria, North Korea, North Macedonia, Oman, Pakistan, Palau, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Reunion, Russia, Rwanda, Saint Barthelemy, Saint Martin, Samoa, San Marino, Sao Tome & Principe, Senegal, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Sint Maarten, Solomon Islands, Somalia, South Africa, South Sudan, Spain, Sri Lanka, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Sudan, Suriname, Svalbard and Jan Mayen, Sweden, Switzerland, Syria, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Thailand, Togo, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Turks and Caicos, Tuvalu, Uganda, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States of America, Uruguay, US Virgin Islands, Uzbekistan, Vanuatu, Venezuela, Vietnam, Wallis and Futuna, West Bank and Gaza, Yemen, Zambia, Zimbabwe
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 32 How many days is quarantine? Is it self-quarantine or operated by the government? Self
Quarantine Explanation:
Travellers who arrive from a high risk ("red"), very high risk ("dark red") or extreme risk ("black") country must self-quarantine until a negative result of a COVID-19 test taken after arrival is available.
Travellers from countries bordering the Czech Republic are exempt from quarantine, provided that the duration of their stay does not exceed 24 hours. Transiting travellers whose stay in the Czech Republic does not exceed 12 hours are also exempt.
https://www.mvcr.cz/mvcren/article/coronavirus- Quarantine Rules: information-of-moi.aspx
Quarantine https://koronavirus.mzcr.cz/en/list-of-countries- mandate list: according-to-the-level-of-risk/ Last Update: 2021-08-23
Exit
Is there a ban on exit for any travellers? Recommended
Are there special requirements to exit the country? No
Exit Requirements Explanation:
Travel to "extreme" COVID-19 risk countries - Botswana, Brazil, Colombia, Eswatini, India, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Nepal, Paraguay, Peru, Russia, South Africa, Tanzania, Tunisia, Zambia and Zimbabwe - is not recommended.
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 33 Exit https://www.mzcr.cz/ochranne-opatreni-vstup-do-zemi-s- Requirementsextremnim-rizikem-nakazy-onemocneni-covid-19-s-ucinnosti- (URL): od-1-do-31-8-2021/ Last Update: 17 August 2021
Vaccination
Percent vaccinated with at least one dose: 55.143 as of 24 Aug 2021 Percent fully vaccinated: 52.7 as of 26 Aug 2021 Is vaccination mandatory for entry? No Are vaccinated travellers exempt from any policies or requirements? Yes Exemptions: Testing, Quarantine, Domestic Restrictions Qualified vaccines and timeline: Pfizer - 14 days after second dose. AstraZeneca (Vaxzevria) - 14 days after second dose. Johnson & Johnson - 14 days after first dose. Moderna - 14 days after second dose. Immunity through previous infection - positive test older than 11 days, not older than 6 months. Certificates accepted: Paper Certificate, EU Digital COVID Certificate, NHS Covid Pass, CDC Covid Vaccination Card
Explanation:
Travellers with proof of vaccination or recovery are exempt from quarantine and testing. COVID-19 certificates must be the EU Digital COVID Certificate (EUDCC) or another documentation that is on the list of certificates recognised by the Ministry of Health (https://koronavirus.mzcr.cz/certifikaty/); only the printed version of the NHS Covid Pass will be accepted from UK arrivals.
Certain facilities - including tourist accommodations - are only accessible to those with proof of vaccination, recovery or a recent negative COVID-19 test.
Residents can obtain their vaccination certificates online (https://ocko.uzis.cz/)
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 34 from the Czech Ministry of Health. Vaccination certificates are valid between 22 days-3 months after the first shot of a two-dose vaccine, nine months after the final shot of a two-dose vaccine or between 14 days-9 months for a single-dose vaccine.
https://covid.gov.cz/en/situations/travelling-abroad/travelers-map- Source: conditions-entry-country-obligations-upon-return-czech Last 24 August 2021 Update:
Other International Travel Restrictions
Exit Requirements Explanation:
Last Update: 15 August 2021
Domestic Situation
Areas on Lockdown
Last Update: 15 August 2021
Areas under Curfew
Last Update: 15 August 2021
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 35 Domestic Travel
Domistic Travel Explanation:
Last Update: 15 August 2021
Other Domestic Restrictions
Hotels, cultural venues, close contact services and public events are only accessible who have tested negative, recovered from a prior infection or have been vaccinated against COVID-19. Hotel guests who plan to stay longer than seven days must be re-tested for COVID-19.
Cultural and sporting events that require a COVID-19 pass are permitted for a maximum of 3,000 people indoors and 7,000 people outdoors.
Last Update: 15 August 2021
Demonstrations and Unrest
Police officers fired tear gas and water cannons to disperse protesters on Prague’s Old Town Square on 18 October 2020 when a demonstration against government restrictions spiralled into clashes. Nearly 20 police officers were injured. On 7 March, dozens of anti-lockdown protesters were arrested during a sit-in on Na Příkopě Street in Prague's Old Town.
Last update: 15 August 2021
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 36 Resources
Government COVID Site: https://covid.gov.cz/en/
Health Dept COVID Site: https://koronavirus.mzcr.cz/en/
There are no recent incidents
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 37 Local Travel : Moderate Risk
Dial 112 nationwide in case of emergency.
Travel Safety
Air Travel and Airports: Prague's Vaclav Havel Airport (formerly Ruzyne Airport) is the main international gateway into the Czech Republic. It is located 20km (12.4 miles) north of central Prague. Security is good at the airport and there have been no serious security breaches in recent years.
An Airport Express (AE) bus runs every half hour from each terminal to the central train station in Prague. Alternatively, travellers can take a bus from the terminal buildings to a metro station and then travel by metro to central Prague. This journey will take around 40 minutes. There is also a taxi rank outside the arrivals halls and a journey into central Prague will cost around CZK700 (approximately USD35). Only take a taxi from the official rank as unlicensed taxis overcharge travellers by considerable amounts. Car hire desks are situated in the arrivals halls. Many large international firms operate from the airport, as do some smaller local firms. All vehicles available for hire are recent models that are well maintained.
Prague Airport is the main hub for the Czech Republic flag carrier, Czech Airlines. It has direct flights to Prague from airports across Europe, the Middle East, and North America. Czech Airlines is a safe airline and has had no serious safety incidents in recent years.
The other major international airports in the Czech Republic are Brno and Ostrava. From Brno Airport into the centre of Brno the number 76 bus runs every half hour. At Ostrava, the bus service is infrequent, but taxis are also available.
Visas: Visas are not required for citizens of the EU/EEA. Visitors from EU Annex II countries, including Canada, USA, Australia, New Zealand, Brazil, Mexico and Japan, do not require a visa to visit the Czech Republic for stays of less than 90 days. Citizens of other countries should check visa requirements with the Czech embassy in their home country before departing for the Czech Republic.
Road Travel: The Czech Republic has one of the highest road accident and road fatality rates in Europe. Road conditions vary widely, from very well surfaced highways
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 38 to poorly maintained rural roads. This contributes to the high accident rate, along with the reckless driving standards of many Czech motorists. The D1 highway and narrow heavily travelled roads, such as the one between Prague and Karlovy Vary, are particularly dangerous. Be alert on all Czech roads, whether on foot or in a vehicle. In case of an accident, pull to the side of the road and retrieve the reflective triangle that all cars are required to have in their boot. This triangle must be set up on the road behind your car to warn other drivers of your presence.
A valid foreign driver's license may be used for natives of EU/EEA countries, but the driver must be at least 18 years old. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if you are not an EU national and required for citizens of South Korea and Japan. Speed limits in the Czech Republic are widely ignored, but enforcement is increasing. They are 50kph (30 mph) in urban areas, 90kph (56 mph) outside urban areas and 130kph (78 mph) on motorways. There is a zero tolerance for driving under the influence of alcohol. Any driver caught with alcohol in their system will face heavy fines and possible licence suspension. Additionally, headlights must be switched on at all times when driving.
Public Transport
Buses: International bus services run by Eurolines link the Czech Republic with other European states. Eurolines' buses are mostly comfortable, safe recent models. Fares are cheap, but journey times can be considerably longer than similar journeys by rail.
Domestic buses are often faster, cheaper and more convenient than trains. The Student Agency company operates services between major cities using modern and comfortable coaches. Links between Prague, Brno, Plzeò and Liberec are efficient and generally on time. All intercity services from Prague leave from Florenc Bus Station or Èerný Most Bus Station. Petty theft is possible on these services, so keep your bags close and any valuables in secure pockets close to your body. Inter-city buses occasionally leave early, so be ready at least 15 minutes before the official departure time.
Larger cities have extensive municipal bus networks that cover most areas. Buses come frequently and are generally clean and crime-free. A night bus system takes over between the hours of midnight and 05:00 local time in Prague, which operates less frequently than day buses. You can recognise night buses by their numbering in the 500s. Tickets for municipal bus services can be bought from kiosks near stops or from
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 39 the driver. Remember to validate your ticket in the machines on board, as failure to do so may result in a fine.
Metro: Prague's metro system covers much of the city and reaches the outskirts, often beyond tram routes. It stops running between midnight and 05:00 local time, when the night trams and buses take over. A 40 minute metro pass costs CZK18 (approximately USD0.9). Always stand well back from the platform edge when trains are approaching. Petty crime and occasional muggings take place in metro stations, particularly after dark. Avoid walking alone in metro stations at night and ensure your valuables are in secure pockets close to your body.
Taxis: Many taxis are available in Prague, but overcharging of foreign nationals is common. Rather than hailing a taxi in the street, visitors can obtain lower prices by telephoning the taxi company and having a car dispatched. While it is good practice to ensure that your driver has switched on the meter before driving off, this does not always protect you from high fares. Some licensed drivers use altered meters that roll around faster to con passengers into paying more. It is very hard to guard against this, but if you have an idea of how much the journey should cost you will be in a better position to bargain. Ask at your hotel how much they estimate a specific journey should cost. Unlicensed taxi drivers are known to operate at public transport hubs. Never get into an unmarked taxi or a vehicle that does not have a taxi meter. These drivers may heavily overcharge and have been known to rob passengers.
Trains: International rail links to the Czech Republic mostly connect with Prague's main train station, Hlavní Nádra'í. There are direct connections from Slovakia, Poland, Germany, Denmark, Switzerland, Austria, Slovenia, Hungary and Romania. Most international services use modern trains that are comfortable, safe and fast. Overnight international services are often targeted by petty thieves, who look through the bags of sleeping passengers. Try to keep your bags as close to you as possible and use locks to keep them closed. Serious rail accidents occur periodically, although rail travel is still safer than taking the bus.
Domestic rail services are unreliable and slow, particularly for rural areas. There has been little investment in the rail network aside from on major routes such as Prague - Brno. Ticket prices can also be higher than for bus travel on a similar route. If you intend to take more than one train ride, it may be worth buying a CZK600 (approximately USD30) annual unlimited use ticket at the train station. Hlavní Nádra'í station is known as a location for drug use and prostitution and can feel unsafe. It is
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 40 not generally dangerous during the daytime; however, it is advisable to avoid walking near the station alone after dark.
Trams: Prague's tram system is extensive, runs frequently and safer than buses. However, carriages are often old and rundown compared to those of other European states. Accidents occur periodically and may result in injury. Petty theft is a risk, so keep valuables in secure pockets. After midnight, the night tram timetable begins. These operate less frequently, but are generally reliable. Passengers on night trams may be drunk and rowdy so it is not advisable to travel alone on these services.
Vehicle Rental: Both large international and local car hire firms operate in the Czech Republic. Most supply recent model vehicles that are well maintained, though some small firms may be less reliable. Always inspect any vehicle you wish to hire before you leave the hire company offices, as dangerous damage can be missed by company inspections.
Recent incidents
04 August 2021 - 05 August 2021 Moderate risk: Train derailment disrupts services between Prague and Kralupy nad Vltavou Local sources indicated that dozens of train services between Prague’s Holešovice district and Kralupy nad Vltavou were disrupted after at least three carriages of a freight train derailed near Kralupy nad Vltavou, during morning hours local time. There were no reports of injuries. Replacement buses were available.
04 August 2021 - 05 August 2021 Medium risk: Fatalities reported from train collision near Milavče, Plzeň region Local sources reported that at least two people were killed and around 50 others were injured after an international high-speed train collided with a local passenger train near Milavče, Domažlice district, Plzeň region, at around 08:00 local time (06:00 GMT). Emergency operations were underway.
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 41 Country Hotspots
Cities, Towns, Villages: Wenceslas Square and the park (known as 'Sherwood Forest') neighbouring the main train station (Hlavní Nádra'í) in Prague should be avoided at night.
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 42 Safety
Begging: You may be approached by someone asking for money in central urban areas, but they are unlikely to persist if you ignore them. Violence by beggars is very rare.
Discrimination: Czechs have a low opinion of the Roma minority in the country. Visitors who are believed to be of Roma extraction may encounter rudeness but physical attack is unlikely. Additionally, some Czechs still nurse historical grievances against Russians and Germans. Again, this is not a serious threat to safety, but may lead to tension.
Football: Football matches can attract rowdy crowds, whose behaviour may extend to violence. Drunken spectators may pick fights in the stands or on the streets around the stadium before and after a game. Visitors should be alert of their surroundings in the vicinity of football stadiums. Prague's Sparta and Ostrava's Banik are the teams known for having the worst behaved fans.
Police: Many cities have more than one police force. State police wear dark blue uniforms and are generally very professional. Some municipalities field an additional force of city police, who usually wear black uniforms and deal with petty crime. Some police may ask for bribes from travellers to ignore minor offences, particularly motoring offences. Under no circumstances should you pay bribes. It is illegal and specialist anti-corruption police may see a foreign national as an easy target for prosecution.
Pollution: Prague's air is polluted by car traffic, and Ostrava's air quality is damaged by the town's industrial economy. Air pollution in these cities is worst in the summer months and travellers with respiratory problems should always carry their medication with them.
Protests: Most protests are small and peaceful, but all demonstrating crowds should be avoided as a precaution.
Racial Violence: Although racial violence is rare in the Czech Republic, there is a small threat against non-Caucasians. Your chance of encountering racial violence can be minimised by avoiding poorer urban areas after dark.
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 43 Water Safety: The tap water in all major cities is considered safe to drink, although many Czechs drink bottled water instead. Some small towns and villages may have no running water. Travellers are recommended to consume bottled water when travelling, which is widely available.
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 44 Culture
Cultural Sensitivities: Czechs rarely make eye contact with strangers, but when they do, they may hold the gaze for a few moments. This can be seen as confrontational, but Czechs will look at somebody out of interest rather than to communicate a message.
Political Sensitivities: The 40-year communist occupation of the former Czechoslovakia, in particular the Soviet military intervention of 1968 against the “Prague Spring” reforms, has left many Czechs with a mistrust of Russia and all far-left political ideals. Discussing communism in a favourable light should always be avoided to prevent confrontation. Anti-Western sentiment is also sometimes expressed, primarily in relation to United States (US) foreign policy, European Union (EU) border policies and austerity measures. Such sentiments are unlikely to manifest as open confrontations, however.
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 45 Specific Traveller Advice
Female Travellers Local Customs and Laws: There are no local customs or laws that a female traveller should take into consideration in the Czech Republic. Familiarise yourself with your destination prior to travel, and be respectful and mindful of any possible cultural sensitivities, which may include dress, behaviour and topics of discussions.
Safety: There are minimal safety concerns female travellers should take into consideration in the Czech Republic. Sexual assault and rape do occur; however, visitors to the country are not likely to face an additional risk as most perpetrators of assault are known to their victim. While isolated incidents of street harassment and assault are reported in large cities, it is not a widespread or rampant concern. Exercise personal safety awareness if walking alone at night. Stick to main, well-lit streets and avoid walking through desolate areas or unfamiliar neighbourhoods. Refrain from wearing headphones while walking in the evening.
Health and Wellness: Women have access to a full range of gynaecological and reproductive health services, medicines and products in the Czech Republic. These include specialised clinics, abortion services, female-specific OTC drugs, emergency contraceptives, prescription contraceptives and a full variety of feminine hygiene products. Abortion is available during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, permitted under medical circumstances up to 24 weeks and performed during any stage of pregnancy in the case of a severe foetal defect.
LGBT+ Homosexuality is legal in the Czech Republic. There are some legal protections for LGBT+ persons in the country, including protection from discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity. While same-sex marriage is illegal, same-sex couples can register their relationships to receive some of the rights that married couples have. LGBT+ activity and persons are somewhat socially accepted, with LGBT+ travellers likely to find more receptive attitudes in large cities like Prague and Brno. Despite the legal status of LGBT+ rights, social conservatism may be prevalent in some parts of the country, particularly in rural areas and small towns. Travellers may prefer to be discreet about sexual orientation and avoid excessive public displays of affection in areas where attitudes towards the LGBT+ community are
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 46 unknown or generally not accepted. Use caution in conversations about sexuality or LGBT+ issues with strangers or recent acquaintances. Considering booking hotel rooms with two separate beds. Transgender travellers may wish to consider having their passport and identification changed to reflect their new gender before travelling.
Technology & Communication Risk Travellers are unlikely to face risks related to information and communication technology (ICT) in the Czech Republic.
Internet access and social media have no restrictions. While there are laws prohibiting hate speech, which includes the expression of racial, ethnic, or religious intolerance, this is unlikely to affect travellers. There are no concerns related to device searches or sensitive technology. Device searches and inspections at the border are unlikely. There are no restrictions in relation to bringing or operating sensitive equipment, which may include photo cameras, satellite phones, drones, and other GPS systems, in the country. State or criminal penetration of private data is unlikely. Authorities implement minimal state surveillance of ICT networks in the country.
Travellers should exercise basic ICT safety precautions. However, travellers should note that ICT laws and practices are subject to change on short notice, and travellers are recommended to confirm the legality/appropriateness of their specific ICT needs prior to departure.
Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 47 Legal notice
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Riskline / Country Report / 29 August 2021 / Czech Republic 48