Tomio Okamura, leader of the far-right Freedom and Direct Democracy (SPD) movement, has declared that his party would only join a future Czech coalition government if it reviews the residence permits of Ukrainian citizens. Speaking on Nova TV, he argued that only Ukrainians working in jobs “unattractive to Czechs” should be allowed to remain. Most Ukrainians currently live in the country under temporary protection visas, granted after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, according to Radio Prague International.
SPD pushes stricter stance on migration
Okamura said the arrival of hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians had worsened access to rental housing and increased waiting times in medical clinics. He added that, if his party enters government, Ukrainian flags would be removed from public buildings. His remarks come weeks ahead of the October 3–4 parliamentary elections, where SPD polls at around 12.9%, placing third. The opposition ANO movement, led by former prime minister Andrej Babiš, currently leads surveys and is expected to play a central role in coalition talks.
Economic role of Ukrainians in Czechia
Official data from the Czech Security Information Service (BIS) shows more than 390,000 Ukrainians held temporary protection status at the end of 2024, with 249,000 employed—about 90% legally registered. Analysts note Ukrainians contribute more in taxes and insurance than they receive in aid, boosting GDP by 1.2% annually. They are vital in sectors facing labor shortages such as construction, services and industry. Restricting their stay could result in an exodus of workers, further straining the Czech economy.
Rising political and social risks
Okamura’s proposal highlights broader trends in Czech politics: his party is known for Eurosceptic and anti-NATO positions, opposition to sanctions on Russia, and populist rhetoric. Analysts warn that SPD’s entry into government could weaken Prague’s ties with the European Commission and reduce support for Ukraine. President Petr Pavel has already cautioned that military assistance to Kyiv cannot be guaranteed after the elections. Critics argue that rolling back Ukrainians’ residence rights would breach EU directives, undermine humanitarian commitments, and fuel xenophobia and social tensions. Such a move would align with Kremlin interests by diminishing Western backing for Ukraine and destabilizing European unity.
