Today, hundreds of police, firefighters and other members of the security forces gathered in front of the Ministry of the Interior on Letná. They are protesting against low salaries and poor staff conditions. The chairman of the Organizational Union of Security Forces (UBS), Aleš Lehký, said in his opening speech that the government is not fulfilling its own program statement, and he recalled the promise of Interior Minister Vít Rakušan (STAN) to increase salaries by ten percent. . The fire and police unions showed support for the event, not only the prison service, customs officers, city and municipal police and the mountain service association.
The officers filled the entire space in front of the Ministry and the nearby street. They came with banners “We will not allow the dissolution of the security forces”“Our stability, your security” or “You Promise, We Deliver”. People came to the protest from, for example, Liberec, Brno or Ostrava.
“The average salary of a police officer in relation to the average wage has reached its lowest value since the creation of the Czech Republic,” said Lehký. According to him, the government is not fulfilling its promises it will ensure the competitiveness of the corps or better recruitment conditions. The UBS chairman also expressed, in his opinion, a huge turnover among police officers and dissatisfaction with the merger or elimination of police departments. According to him, the situation threatens not only the work of the security forces, but also internal security.
Last week, after a meeting with union representatives, Austria said that the police and firefighters will receive a stabilization allowance of 1,000 kroner in the tariff component next year, in addition to the 1,500 kroner already promised. Today, he repeated this promise in front of the protesters and assured the members that it will be fulfilled. “This deal was made, this deal will stand,” he declared. He thanked the police, firefighters and others for “making sure people are safe.”
There was no positive response among the members to the Minister’s speech. Protest shouting and whistling in disagreement. Austria then went to discuss the conditions in the fairs and directly into the crowd.
However, the Minister of the Interior considers the planned increase of 2,500 crowns to be the maximum possible at the moment. Salaries will also rise by five percent in 2026 and 2027, according to Austria, employees will also receive a stabilization allowance for these years. According to the protesting members, however it will not solve the long-term underfunding of churches.
How does Aleš Lehký plan to sustain advocacy for better conditions and salaries for security personnel?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Aleš Lehký, Chairman of the Organizational Union of Security Forces
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Aleš. We’ve just witnessed a remarkable turnout of police, firefighters, and security forces protesting outside the Ministry of the Interior. What motivated this large gathering?
Aleš Lehký: Thank you for having me. The turnout today signifies the deep frustration and concern among security personnel regarding their working conditions and salaries. Despite assurances from the government, many feel that these promises have gone unfulfilled. We are here to remind the government that our commitment to their security should also be reflected in our pay and conditions.
Editor: You mentioned during your speech that the average salary of police officers is at its lowest value relative to the average wage since the Czech Republic’s inception. How does this affect recruitment and retention within the force?
Lehký: It’s extremely detrimental. When salaries fail to keep pace with the rising cost of living, it discourages new recruits from joining and contributes to high turnover rates. As I pointed out, many officers are leaving the force, which not only strains our current staff but also jeopardizes public safety. A well-staffed and adequately compensated police force is critical for maintaining internal security.
Editor: There was a significant display of solidarity among various security unions today. Can you elaborate on the importance of this unified front?
Lehký: Absolutely. The solidarity observed today highlights the interconnected nature of our roles. Whether you’re a police officer, firefighter, or part of customs—our work is essential for public safety. By standing together, we send a strong message to our government: we are united in our demands for better support and resources. It’s crucial that all sectors of security feel respected and valued.
Editor: The government has proposed a stabilization allowance. How does this fit into the larger context of your demands, and do you feel it sufficiently addresses the issues at hand?
Lehký: While any monetary support is welcome, the proposed stabilization allowance of 1,000 kroner is insufficient in the face of systemic issues. It doesn’t address the core problem of low salaries and the need for long-term stability in our pay. Our salaries should not only reflect our commitment but also ensure we attract skilled individuals to serve in our forces. We’re not merely asking for handouts; we require sustainable changes.
Editor: What are your next steps following today’s protest? How do you plan to keep the momentum going?
Lehký: Our next step is to maintain pressure on the government and ensure they are held accountable for their promises. We will continue to engage with our members and the public to raise awareness about these critical issues. Advocacy is key—it’s about making sure voices of security personnel are not only heard but valued in discussions that impact our work.
Editor: for those outside of the security forces, what message would you like to convey about the importance of your role in society?
Lehký: I want the public to understand that our work goes beyond just enforcing laws; we are here to maintain peace and public safety. The sacrifices we make should not go unnoticed. We strive to provide security and peace of mind every day, and it is crucial that we are supported fairly in return. Together, we can ensure a safer and more secure environment for everyone.
Editor: Thank you, Aleš, for your insights and for sharing your perspective on this vital issue. We appreciate your time.
Lehký: Thank you for covering our concerns. It’s important that these discussions continue.