Released: May 19, 2010

Czechs’ Commitment to Free Markets and Democracy Stays Strong Amidst Troubled Economic and Political Waters

As the global economic crisis unfolded in 2008 and 2009, the Czech Republic’s economy contracted significantly. At the same time, a stalemate between the ruling parliamentary coalition and opposition led to the collapse of the government. In order to keep the country running, an interim government led by non-partisan technocrat Jan Fischer was set up in May 2009. Now, on the eve of national elections, Czechs have an opportunity to address frustrations they have with their country.

A fall 2009 survey by the Pew Research Center’s Global Attitudes Project found broad based Czech discontent with the country’s economic situation and the way democracy is working. Nonetheless, the data also showed a strong commitment among Czechs to free markets and democratic values. Moreover, Czechs ranked high among their peers in the region in terms of happiness with the transition to free market economics and multiparty politics.

Read complete commentary at pewresearch.org.