Topolánek warns EU of possible economic collapse at Prague ECR gathering

At a gala hosted by the European Conservatives and Reformists in Prague, former Czech premier Mirek Topolánek warned that the European Union may have passed a critical breaking point if it does not return to free-market principles and curb regulatory overreach. He reflected on his early involvement in the ECR’s founding documents, noting that many of the group’s initial reforms remain unrealised. Topolánek identified seven domains—civil liberties, economy, energy, defence, information space, and market functioning—where EU member states are losing autonomy.

He criticised the bloc’s subsidy schemes, climate rules and what he called "corporate socialism," arguing they hinder competition. Emphasising security, he urged deeper ties with Germany and France and reaffirmed support for NATO, while also promoting his charitable foundation for pancreatic cancer research.