Populist tycoon Andrej Babiš is one step closer to becoming the new prime minister of the Czech Republic after signing a coalition deal with far-right and right-wing parties.
The coalition includes Babiš's ANO party, the far-right Freedom and Direct Democracy (SPD), and the right-wing Motorists for Themselves (Motoristé sobě). Together, they hold 108 out of 200 seats in the lower house of parliament:
Babiš, a billionaire agricultural magnate, has raised apprehension in Brussels and among opponents over potential anti-establishment alliances at the European level. Despite concerns about possible business conflicts of interest, Czech President Petr Pavel has asked Babiš to form a government, moving him closer to officially becoming prime minister-designate.
"Babiš and his right-wing populist ANO movement are likely the least radical party in the future government, which looks set to reduce support for the EU's migration and climate initiatives like ETS2, the emissions trading system, and oppose Brussels’ plan to phase out combustion engines."
The upcoming government is expected to take a critical stance towards certain European Union policies, particularly scaling back efforts on migration control and environmental regulations.
Author’s summary: Andrej Babiš is poised to lead a coalition with far-right parties, signaling a shift towards eurosceptic policies and reduced support for EU climate and migration initiatives.
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