Czech Farmers voice Concerns Over Political Shift as Family Farms Honored
A growing sense of unease permeated a Thursday meeting of farmers and their families in prague,despite the celebratory occasion of announcing the winners of the “Farm of the Year 2025” competition. While recognizing agricultural excellence, attendees expressed deep anxieties over the recent rise to power of Andrej Babiš and the increasing dominance of large agro-enterprises, viewing both as a notable threat to the future of Czech agriculture. Many farmers are struggling with land in poor condition, forcing them into ongoing battles with powerful “agrobarons” – a group now including Prime Minister babiš and Martin Šebestyán, the likely new Minister of Agriculture.
“He is a greedy and cynical oligarch,” declared jaroslav Šebek, chairman of the Association of Private Agriculture, echoing the sentiments of many present. Šebek’s remarks, delivered at the start of the awards ceremony, alluded to a growing fear that the progress made in addressing the imbalance of power in Czech agriculture was being reversed.He warned that the unresolved issue of “deagrofertization” – dismantling the influence of large agricultural conglomerates – was resurfacing with renewed force. Adding to the concern, Šebek also criticized the presence of what he termed “rent-seeking and pro-russian primitives” within the governing coalition, specifically referencing the SPD party.
The association of Private Agriculture has consistently supported the government of Petr Fiala and the president’s efforts to address Babiš’s conflicts of interest. According to Šebek, this firm stance revealed a troubling reality: “what it looks like when an old-fashioned candidate for prime minister does not even understand that he finds himself not only in a conflict of interests, but especially in a conflict with decency and responsibility towards others.” His words were met with sustained applause.
Despite the political anxieties, the “Farm of the Year 2025” competition also highlighted the resilience and dedication of Czech family farms. The event showcased stories of intergenerational success, with younger generations building upon the foundations laid by their ancestors.
Taking first place was Chlebovické brambory – Farma Libora Janečky, a potato farm from Chlebovice near Frýdek-Místek. Libor janeček, visibly moved, expressed gratitude to his parents for instilling in him a strong work ethic and sense of responsibility.”Thanks to that,we managed to start a business 35 years ago and from that grew what you see around me,” he said,gesturing to his extended family – a group of 21 members who attended the ceremony. The farm’s success extends beyond potato cultivation to include vineyards and a popular “contact farm” called Chlebovyanka, offering a cafe and educational programs for families. The jury praised the farm’s innovative integration of large-scale production with community engagement and the strong family cohesion.
Ilona Kodýmová and martin Kynský, owners of the eco-farm Vojtěška, secured second place with their Highland cattle and high-quality beef. Located near Malá Skála in the Bohemian Paradise,the couple emphasized their commitment to small-scale,family-run agriculture. “Our farm is small, family-run, we do it with the four of us and we have the best beef in the Czech Republic,” Kynský stated.
The Borek Farm of the Terč family earned third place, operating an eco-farm in the Pilsen region with a focus on Galloway beef cattle and direct-to-consumer sales. Their motto, “From pasture to package,” reflects their commitment to quality and traceability.Other notable awardees included Strítežské fojtství, a farm in the Beskydy Mountains raising sheep, poultry, and planting trees, and the Hanžl family farm in Strakonicko, known for its dairy products.
These award-winning farms represent a vital part of the Czech agricultural landscape,embodying a tradition of hard work,family values,and a deep connection to the land. However, the underlying anxieties expressed at the awards ceremony underscore the challenges they face in navigating a changing political and economic climate.
