The new foreign policy of the Czech Republic: security as a key objective

The Government of the Czech Republic approved a new Foreign Policy Concept, which represents a fundamental direction for Czech diplomacy in response to current global challenges. According to Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský, the document departs from the 2015 strategy, which no longer takes into account the current security environment, and puts security at the centre of attention.

The preparation of the new concept was supposed to be completed by mid-2023, but the need to reflect the rapidly changing international environment has delayed the finalisation. The document is based on the 2023 Security Strategy of the Czech Republic proposed by Lipavský, which identified Russia and China as the main threats to Czech and European security. This strategy stressed the need to strengthen the state's resilience to hybrid threats such as cyber attacks or disinformation and to prepare for possible armed conflicts within NATO. The new concept translates these conclusions into foreign policy objectives.

The main element of the document is security, which is considered to be the basis for the stability and prosperity of the Czech Republic. Jan Lipavský stressed on the social network X that the concept openly names threats, especially Russian aggression, which is disrupting the international order, as shown by the invasion of Ukraine. The Czech Republic will therefore deepen cooperation within the EU and NATO, which remain key platforms for ensuring security. Emphasis is placed on energy self-sufficiency, diversification of resources and strengthening the common European foreign policy to enable the country to withstand external pressures.

The Framework maintains a commitment to the promotion of human rights and international law. In line with the tradition of Václav Havel, the Czech Republic will advocate value-oriented diplomacy and criticise violations of international norms, especially by Russia. Support for Ukraine through military, financial and humanitarian assistance, including the Czech initiative for the supply of ammunition, which has won international recognition, plays an important role.

Economic diplomacy remains an important objective, as the prosperity of the Czech Republic depends on strong relations within the EU and global markets. The document supports Czech companies in entering foreign markets and emphasises sustainable development, in particular the fight against climate change and development cooperation aimed at preventing natural disasters. The Concept also builds on other strategic documents, such as the Plan of Preparation of Citizens for National Defence (POKOS) 2025-2030, which emphasises the need to increase the resilience of society.

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