The protection and promotion of human rights, both globally and in Czechia, remain long-standing priorities for the Czech government. In recent years, significant progress has been made in introducing key changes – from establishing a children’s ombudsman and redefining rape, to banning the physical punishment of children and passing legislation on domestic violence. However, many challenges in the areas of human rights and gender equality persist in Czechia.

How does protecting human rights strengthen the resilience of democracy? How can we accelerate the adoption of necessary changes? What’s the best way to show that safeguarding human rights and advancing gender equality have practical, positive impacts on people’s lives in Czech society? And how can we ensure that human rights stay at the top of the political agenda?

The right to live free from violence is a fundamental human right. Yet many people in our society experience violence in various forms. In recent years, cases of domestic violence, sexual violence, and hate-motivated violence have been increasing. This rise is closely tied to deepening inequalities, the continued social tolerance of violence, and a lack of adequate focus on mental health. Violence therefore represents a significant challenge to protecting human rights and ensuring public safety.

What are the root causes of the growing violence in society? Where is our system for tackling violence failing? What legislative and systemic changes are needed to create a society free from violence? How can we ensure better collaboration among everyone involved in addressing violence? And what can we learn from other countries’ experiences?

The world is changing faster than ever, with technological innovation intertwining with dynamic social developments. These technological and societal shifts can create new opportunities to improve access to education, employment, and social services, as well as to advance human rights. However, the benefits of these changes are not always distributed evenly. Vulnerable groups are often overlooked, facing discrimination and encountering new forms of barriers and disadvantages.

How can we ensure that the benefits of technological progress are shared by all members of society? How can we best identify and remove the obstacles faced by vulnerable groups? What changes are needed in specific areas? And what role do non-governmental organisations play now – and in the future – in promoting equality and inclusion in a rapidly changing society?

Fair participation in decision-making on public matters is one of the fundamental pillars of democracy. Yet, more than a century after the introduction of universal suffrage, women still do not participate in political decision-making to a proportional extent. The situation in Czechia is particularly notable from a European perspective. Women’s representation in politics and decision-making positions has been consistently low compared to the rest of Europe, and initiatives aimed at increasing women’s participation have seen limited success.

Why is it important to strive for fair representation of women in public decision-making? What obstacles do women who are active in public and political life face? Why do women engage actively in civil society and express as much interest in politics as men, yet often choose not to run for political office? How are other European countries addressing this democratic deficit? And is it time for systemic solutions here in Czechia?

It will soon be three years since Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. Czechia remains one of the countries hosting the largest number of Ukrainians under temporary protection. Currently, around 380,000 people from Ukraine have sought refuge in Czechia to escape the war. With no end to the conflict in sight, it is clear that many of these individuals will continue to stay in the country. While basic needs have been successfully addressed, nearly three years on, new questions are emerging about integration and the current support system for people arriving from Ukraine.

How can we overcome barriers in employment, healthcare, and psychosocial support? How has the refugee crisis contributed to addressing Czechia’s longstanding challenges across various sectors? Most importantly, how can we foster dialogue and mutual understanding between the majority population and migrants?

A sustainable public space has a profound impact on the quality of life in towns and cities. It is where people come together, spend their free time, and engage in community activities. The planning and management of these spaces must address environmental challenges, such as climate change, while also meeting the needs of diverse social groups. Factors like mobility, accessibility, green spaces, and functional infrastructure play a crucial role in residents’ satisfaction.

What innovative solutions and inspiring initiatives for the sustainable development of public spaces already exist? What steps can towns and cities take to create environments that prioritise ecological sustainability and social inclusion? How can we ensure urban spaces are safe, accessible, and welcoming for everyone, regardless of gender, age, health, or social and family circumstances?

The media are a crucial guardian of democracy, ensuring public awareness and holding power to account. However, they are increasingly under threat. Populist and anti-democratic movements around the world are targeting the media with the aim of undermining their credibility. At the European Union level, the European Media Freedom Act has been introduced, which includes measures to protect media pluralism and independence. This regulation should also help strengthen editorial autonomy, protect journalistic sources, and increase transparency in media ownership in Czechia.

To what extent is journalistic freedom under threat here? How can we ensure that the media remain independent and resilient to political and commercial pressures? What challenges do regional media face, and how can we support them? How does diversity in media leadership contribute to their resilience? How can journalists contribute to promoting democratic values, protecting human rights, and exposing their violations through their work?