Czech Billionaires and Bohemia Interactive Founders Acquire Controversial News Outlet Parlamentní Listy
Marek Španěla and Slavomír Pavlíček, CEO and CFO of Bohemia Interactive respectively, and two of the Czech Republic’s wealthiest individuals, have expanded their media empire with the acquisition of Parlamentní Listy, a publication known for disseminating extremist views, disinformation, and alleged Russian propaganda. This purchase, executed through their media company Naše Média, adds to their existing portfolio, which includes Echo24, Týdeník Echo, Hrot magazine, and Radio Prostor. While the acquisition wasn’t concealed, it remained largely unnoticed outside the Czech Republic, initially appearing as a typical business transaction. Španěla and Pavlíček defend the purchase as part of their broader media investment strategy, emphasizing their commitment to fostering diverse voices and freedom of speech within the Czech media landscape. They claim Parlamentní Listy is among the top 10 online news outlets in the Czech Republic, alongside their other publication, Echo24.
The rationale behind the acquisition, however, appears deeply intertwined with the very accusations of disinformation leveled against Parlamentní Listy. Španěla cites the "increasing distortion of public debate" during events like the 2015 European migration crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic as motivation for the purchase. He argues that ensuring a platform for independent voices challenging the prevailing narrative is crucial for a thriving society. Furthermore, he draws parallels between current "US/Western approaches to free speech" and the censorship experienced by the Czech Republic under communist rule, suggesting an attempt to control thought and narrative to support a single ideology. Interestingly, Španěla’s interest in the publication was piqued by criticism of Echo24’s print edition by a prominent journalist, who labelled both Echo and Parlamentní Listy as pro-Russian. Španěla expressed concern over this journalist’s perceived propagation of hatred, suggesting that such labelling stifles legitimate perspectives.
Parlamentní Listy’s controversial content continues under the new ownership. The outlet has published articles denigrating Ukrainians, propagating transphobic narratives, and promoting various right-wing conspiracy theories, including those targeting George Soros and the COVID-19 pandemic. It also regularly features stories on migrant crime and anti-vaccination sentiments. Španěla, while maintaining that the editorial decisions rest solely with the respective teams, condemns attempts to silence media outlets based on their viewpoints, reiterating his belief in editorial independence. He argues that labelling outlets as “pro-Russian” or “anti-science” has become a means of suppressing dissenting voices and that current trends suggest a dismantling of this censorship apparatus. This stance contradicts criticisms levelled at the publication, which allege its role in promoting Russian interests.
The publication’s content often mirrors the positions promoted by Russian propaganda operations. For instance, a recent article downplayed the humanitarian role of USAID, echoing narratives propagated by Russia. It also amplified false claims about the US government subsidizing Politico, a narrative that aligns with broader disinformation efforts. While these talking points are not exclusively pro-Russian, they resonate with themes consistently pushed by Russian international propaganda efforts. This raises questions about the publication’s potential role in disseminating disinformation, whether intentional or unwitting. While it’s unclear if Španěla and Pavlíček endorse these positions, their involvement has sparked concern within the Czech game development community.
The acquisition has drawn criticism, particularly given the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and Russia’s documented propaganda campaigns. Bohemia Interactive’s previous fundraising efforts for Ukrainian relief through the International Committee of the Red Cross seem to clash with the editorial direction of Parlamentní Listy. This apparent contradiction raises questions about the company’s values and the potential impact of the acquisition on its public image. Some critics argue that the purchase, while legally permissible, demonstrates a lack of foresight, particularly given the inflammatory and often false nature of the publication’s content. They contend that the rhetoric published by Parlamentní Listy remains unchanged, reinforcing pre-existing concerns about its editorial stance.
This acquisition places Španěla and Pavlíček in a position of significant influence within the Czech media landscape. Their decision to invest in a publication accused of disseminating pro-Russian narratives during an active conflict involving Russia and Ukraine has understandably raised eyebrows. As the Czech Republic’s game development industry grows in global prominence, the actions of its leaders, particularly those with significant media holdings, will be subject to increased scrutiny. Španěla and Pavlíček’s ongoing investment in media raises fundamental questions about their vision for the Czech media landscape and their willingness to hold a publication accountable for spreading potentially harmful disinformation. Their emphasis on “media freedom” requires careful consideration in the context of Parlamentní Listy’s content and its potential impact on public discourse.