Statement

Czech Rectors Conference strongly objects to the statements of the Member of Parliament (MP) for the SPD, Jiří Kobza, which he published on his social networks on 28 December 2023. In his contribution, MP Kobza asks, among other things, suggestive questions "... what do they actually learn at the Faculty of Arts of Charles University? What hate indoctrination program is running there? What role do non-profits play in this? Is there perhaps another shooter in preparation?".

Czech Rectors Conference considers this contribution of a member of the Parliament of the Czech Republic to be absolutely shocking, crossing the boundaries of decency, morality, good manners, but also the boundaries of humanity. Representatives of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) fully respect anyone's right to express their opinion, but even this right has its limits, where the first should be one's own conscience and the last should be the legal regulations of the state.

MP Kobza intentionally abuses the situation and spreads hate and conspiracies on his social networks. It is sad in what way and how far this MP is able to go in his self-promotion, regardless of how many lives have been ruined and how much suffering has been caused by this terrible act to dozens, but rather hundreds of people.

All the more, the Czech Rectors Conference wants to express its gratitude to all institutions and citizens who express their support for the Faculty of Arts of Charles University and the entire Charles University, not only in words but also in actions. As part of collections announced for this purpose, citizens donated a financial sum that will help the survivors, the victims and other needy people whose lives were affected by this tragedy.

HEIs feel a sense of belonging to Charles University and offer their premises, technical equipment and everything necessary to its management, so that the Faculty of Arts of Charles University can gradually resume its academic life in the upcoming semester.

Czech Rectors Conference is convinced that we cannot yield to the evil that has affected Charles University and that we will manage to overcome this difficult period all together.

Prague, 29 December 2023