Piráti with the support of Zelení
Foto: zeleni.cz
Seats in Parliament:
4
The Piráti are in parliament and were part of the governing coalition until October 2024.
The Zelení are not represented in parliament.
Voters:
Both the Pirates and the Greens appeal to:
- younger, urban voters
- educated voters
- those who prioritize digital rights and technological innovation
- those who prioritize environmental protection and social justice
History:
The Czech Pirate Party was founded in 2009 and is part of the international Pirate movement, emphasizing transparency, civil rights, and direct democracy.
Zelení were founded in 1990. They emphasize environmental issues, social justice, and human rights. The last time they held seats in parliament was 15 years ago.
Political Position:
The Pirate party is generally considered center-left, advocating for progressive policies such as government transparency, digital rights, and participatory democracy. It supports civil liberties, environmental sustainability, and social justice. The digitalization of public services is a central theme.
The Green Party is positioned on the center-left of the political spectrum, advocating for green politics and social liberalism. It supports social justice initiatives, such as equal opportunities in education and the protection of minority rights.
Websites:
Performance:
The Pirates joined the government in 2021, with Pirate leader Ivan Bartoš serving as the Minister for Regional Development. They championed proposals on government transparency, regulatory reforms, and the legalization and taxation of cannabis. Their most ambitious reform, the digitalization of construction permitting, became a flashpoint due to persistent implementation issues, which sparked internal and coalition tensions and led to Bartoš’s dismissal and the party’s withdrawal from government in October 2024. They have since been in opposition.
The Greens only gained seats in Parliament in 1992 and 2006, participating in the governing coalition from 2006 until 2009. However, internal conflicts and external political pressures led to a decline in support, and the party failed to secure seats in subsequent parliamentary elections. The party continues to engage in environmental advocacy and grassroots initiatives, aiming to rebuild its support base and reestablish a presence in national politics.
Perception on Corruption:
The Pirates have built their reputation on anti-corruption efforts, emphasizing transparency and accountability in government.
The Green Party has advocated for anti-corruption measures and increased accountability within public institutions, which aligns with its broader commitment to social justice.