The Czech Senate has approved a new law that effectively prohibits Russian nationals from obtaining Czech citizenship, further tightening the country's stance against Russia in light of the
ongoing war in Ukraine.
The legislation, known as Lex Ukraine, was initially designed to extend temporary protections for Ukrainian refugees. However, amendments targeting Russian citizenship applications were added during the legislative process.
Key provisions of the law
Under the new regulations, Russian nationals will only be eligible to apply for Czech citizenship after the conclusion of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Additionally, applicants must renounce their Russian citizenship before they can acquire Czech nationality. All current applications from Russian nationals will be put on hold indefinitely.
The law makes limited exceptions for minors, asylum seekers, and individuals who oppose the Russian regime. However, it does not specify how applicants can demonstrate their status as dissidents, raising concerns about the implementation of these provisions.
Controversial measures and criticism
The legislation also introduces criminal penalties for "unauthorized cooperation with a foreign state," a clause that has drawn criticism for its potential misuse against political dissent.
The law narrowly passed with the support of just 21 out of 73 senators. Despite the opposition, no amendments were proposed by dissenting members, effectively sealing its approval. The legislation now awaits the president’s signature, which is widely expected, as the president has previously indicated no objection to the measure.
Reactions from advocates and critics
Human rights organizations and members of the Russian community in the Czech Republic have condemned the citizenship ban, labeling it discriminatory for singling out nationals of one country. They argue that the policy undermines principles of equality and fairness.
Supporters, on the other hand, maintain that citizenship is a privilege, not a right, and assert that the policy cannot be deemed discriminatory.
Broader context of restrictions
The Czech Republic has implemented some of the toughest restrictions on Russian nationals within the European Union since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. These include a complete suspension of tourist visas, a halt to new residence permits for Russians, and a ban on direct entry from outside the Schengen Zone.
Photo by Krokodyl, Wikimedia commons.