Czech Republic Elections 2025: Babis Eyes Power Amid Security Concerns
The Czech Republic is preparing for elections on October 3rd and 4th, 2025, against a backdrop of heightened security concerns in Europe. Populist leader Andrej Babis, 71, is widely expected to lead the next government, though he may require support from parties on the fringes of Czech politics. The election outcome could significantly influence the Czech Republic’s role in Europe and its defense policies.
The Rise of Andrej Babis and ANO
Andrej Babis, whose ANO party opposes leaving NATO and advocates for EU reform, has assured voters he has no plans to align with Russia or withdraw from the EU. Despite these assurances, some potential coalition partners favor referendums on EU and NATO membership, a position ANO rejects. Babis has drawn inspiration from the US MAGA movement, as evidenced by his party's "Strong Czechia" red caps.
Babis stated, "We'll never drag the Czech Republic to the East. I can absolutely rule that out...We weren't the ones who sat down with Putin - we were the ones who expelled Russian diplomats!" He also emphasized, "And never - I repeat, never - will we consider leaving the European Union. Look at what happened to Great Britain!"
Potential Coalition Challenges and Concerns
ANO is unlikely to secure an outright majority, necessitating alliances with smaller, more extreme parties. These potential allies include the ultra-nationalist SPD, the anti-Green-Deal Motorists, and the Enough! coalition. Several of these parties advocate for referendums on EU and NATO membership, creating potential friction within a Babis-led government. Karel Havlicek, ANO deputy leader, clarified, "We criticize the European Union, but we don't want to destroy it, we want to reform it...And Nato, well, we can criticize many things about it, but joining Nato was the most important milestone in the history of the Czech Republic, and our position is to strengthen it."
Security Concerns and Generational Divide
Security experts have voiced concerns about potential Russian interference and the influence of pro-Russian parties. This is of particular concern to young voters and liberals, who worry about the country’s future and security. While the current government supports Ukraine and strong EU ties, a Babis-led coalition could shift these policies. Young voters, like political science student Ondrej Kapralek, are keenly aware of the potential for the Czech Republic to follow the paths of Slovakia and Hungary toward the far right.
Prime Minister Petr Fiala's Spolu (Together) coalition is currently lagging behind the ANO party in the polls.
