A “stop stav” (hiring freeze) for new employees has been put into effect in a significant part of the Czech state administration as part of budget consolidation efforts. While some ministries deny the existence of such a directive, it was confirmed by Minister of Agriculture Marek Výborný in response to a direct question.

Minister Výborný explained, “In a situation where we need to consolidate the state budget and find areas to save, it must not only be about revenues, but we must first learn to save ourselves.” He added that he has given a clear instruction that there is currently a hiring freeze for new employees, with exceptions allowed only based on the minister’s directive and decision.

Pavel Bednář, the head of the Trade Union of State Bodies and Organizations, also confirmed the existence of the directive, acknowledging that it may create difficulties for existing employees. Many vacant positions have selection procedures announced, but no one is being hired, which means that existing employees have to shoulder additional workloads.

Exceptions to the hiring freeze typically include positions of executives and managers, roles systemized for a specific period, and positions replacing employees on maternity or parental leave. However, the freeze appears to affect a broad range of state administration roles.

While some ministries, such as the Ministry of Transport, Ministry of Culture, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Labor, and the Office of the Government, deny the official existence of the directive, they are working to limit the number of officials as part of cost-cutting measures. The reduction in the number of positions is expected to result in a reduction in the budget allocated for salaries.

The hiring freeze is reflective of the government’s commitment to consolidating the state budget and reducing expenses across various ministries and departments. As discussions continue, it remains to be seen how these measures will impact the functioning of the state administration.

Article by Prague Forum