Luxembourg/Brussels/Prague – The Court of Justice of the European Union has ruled that the Czech Republic and Poland are in violation of EU law by prohibiting foreigners from other European Union countries from joining political parties. The European Commission brought the case against both nations, claiming they restrict the rights of foreign nationals to run in local and European elections under the same conditions as citizens of those countries. According to spokesperson Ondřej Krátoška, the Czech Ministry of the Interior plans to review the court’s ruling thoroughly and assess whether legislative changes are necessary.
“The Commission argued that this refusal constitutes discrimination based on nationality, leading to lawsuits against the Czech Republic and Poland for failing to meet their obligations,” the court’s press release stated. The Court of Justice upheld these suits, concluding that both member states have not adhered to their commitments under EU Treaties.
Krátoška explained that the Czech Republic has long maintained its stance on the right to associate in political parties and movements. However, the Court’s ruling indicates that this viewpoint is inconsistent with European law. “The Ministry of the Interior, in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which represented the Czech Republic during the legal proceedings, will carefully examine the court’s decision and determine how to adjust legislation to comply with it,” the spokesperson commented to ČTK.
The European Commission has been addressing the Czech Republic’s restrictions since 2012, formally initiating proceedings for breaching EU regulations. Nevertheless, the Czech Republic has consistently responded to complaints by asserting that its laws align with the European Union’s common regulations. (November 19)
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