Journalist Ondřej Kundra receives prestigious Peroutka Prize

Ondrej Kundra, a Respekt journalist, received last year's prestigious Ferdinand Peroutka Prize for journalism. Kundra writes about Czech politics, focusing in particular on corruption and public tenders. The jury appreciated, among other qualities, his motivation and perseverance. Last year, he covered topics mainly related to the influence of Russia and China in the Czech Republic and Central Europe, such as the extradition of Russian hacker Jevgenij Nikulin. He exposed disinformation campaigns, and the poisoning of former double-agent Sergej Skripal. Information brought to light by his investigative work is often taken up by much of the international media. This year, he attracted particular attention from his article covering the Castle's efforts to influence judges. "The Articles are a product of a kind of collective intelligence. They emerge in a creative and inspirational environment, with significant participation from my experienced colleagues. I would not have acquired the expertise and skills I have without Respekt," said Kundra during the ceremony. He is the seventh staff member of Respekt to receive this prize. Zdenek Bakala, Owner of Economia, and his wife Michaela congratulated Ondrej saying: "We regard your professional work highly. Thank you for your years of advocating the values and essence of democracy, advanced society, and the rule of law, in the Czech Republic and beyond." The Ferdinand Peroutka Society has awarded this prize for journalism since 1995. Winners are required to demonstrate high moral integrity and have an impeccable record before both the law and their conscience, precluding any dissonance between words and actions.