The invitation of Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský to the Czernin Palace was accepted by eight courageous people who, despite the unfavourable conditions in their home countries, have not given up and are tirelessly fighting for freedom and democracy. Some had to flee abroad for fear of their safety and continue their activities. Similar events are being organised by Czech embassies around the world these days. 

"Today's traditional Mitterrand breakfast with courageous personalities who have not let themselves be broken and have remained catalytic even in the difficult conditions of cruel regimes was very inspiring. They had to leave, but they did not give up. We have long supported human rights and stood up for the oppressed," said the Czech diplomatic chief. 

The tradition of hosting breakfasts with activists, independent journalists and human rights defenders dates back to 1988, when French President Mitterand invited a group of eight dissidents to show support and send a clear message to the regime of the time that they had not been forgotten by the democratic world. The same motive is behind today's meeting with active representatives of civil society from countries that do not respect democratic values and principles. 

Today, representatives of independent media outlets that disseminate uncensored news, civil society activists, a former political prisoner and a representative of a pro-democracy alternative government met at the Czernin Palace. They shared the reality of the situation in their countries and discussed possible scenarios and alternatives for the future. "Alsu Kurmasheva, a journalist based in Prague, was imprisoned in Russia for 288 days. Just because she visited her sick mother. Czech diplomacy worked tirelessly for her release. Today, I had the honour of meeting Alsa in person. We will not forget those who are unjustly prosecuted," Minister Lipavský said during the meeting. 

Czechia has long supported pro-democracy forces and independent media in non-free regimes and has spoken out in support of them in international fora.