The Czech Senate is preparing to discuss a new anti-espionage law aimed at combating foreign intelligence operations, primarily from Russia. However, some politicians and experts are concerned that the law could limit freedom of speech and affect the activities of diplomats, as reported by Euractiv.
The bill's author, Deputy Martin Exner (STAN party), explained that the new measures are necessary due to the growing activity of Russian and other hostile intelligence services. He cited examples such as the poisoning of Sergei Skripal in the UK using Novichok nerve agent, arson attacks in Poland and Germany, and incidents of damage to underwater cables by vessels allegedly linked to intelligence agencies.
The amendment introduces a new crime in the Czech Criminal Code — "unauthorized activity in the interest of a foreign state." The law proposes penalties for individuals who collect and transmit even non-secret but important information if it harms national security. Depending on the severity of the crime and intent, violators face prison sentences ranging from one to 15 years.
Despite efforts to strengthen national security, the bill has faced criticism. Independent Senator Hana Cordova Marvanova argued that the wording of the document is too vague and could inadvertently criminalize legitimate activities, including the work of diplomats, including those from allied countries.
However, the Czech Security and Information Service (BIS) has supported the law, emphasizing that the new measures are needed to protect the country from complex external threats. The BIS document states that the amendment does not threaten freedom of speech and is specifically aimed at countering espionage activities from countries such as Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea.
The lower house of the Czech Parliament has already approved the amendment, but voting in the Senate may be more complicated due to disagreements among lawmakers. The bill's review is scheduled for January. If passed, the Czech Republic will have some of the strictest anti-espionage measures in Europe.
