Občanská demokratická strana
Civic Democratic Party
Civic Democratic Party
European Parliament Group
Change of +13.9 since last election
+13.9 in the last 3 months
The foundation of the ODS rests on the pillars of classical liberalism and conservative patriotism. The party views the individual, not the state, as the cornerstone of society. Its philosophy emphasizes self-reliance and personal liberty, with the state's role limited to guaranteeing security and legal certainty. Deeply rooted in the post-communist transformation, it champions the market economy and national sovereignty against bureaucratic overreach.
The ODS agenda primarily targets entrepreneurs, the self-employed, and the urban middle class. It advocates for low taxes, reduced bureaucracy, and strict fiscal discipline to prevent national debt. In foreign policy, it maintains a clear transatlantic and pro-NATO stance, while keeping a distinct distance from deeper EU integration. Its program emphasizes border security and a pragmatic energy policy, often relying on nuclear power as a stabilizing factor.
Strategically, the ODS positions itself as a serious guardian of the state within the right-wing political spectrum, serving as a bulwark against populist movements. Within the parliamentary system, it acts as a stabilizing force, emphasizing institutions based on the rule of law, while critically scrutinizing the democratic legitimacy of EU institutions. Through its ability to form alliances within the civic-conservative bloc, it regularly secures access to power, often having to bridge the gap between conservative hardliners and moderate factions.
Total Duration: 19 years • 1 month • 3 weeks • 5 days
Total Duration: 19 years • 1 month • 3 weeks • 5 days
Total Duration: -
The party participated in government for 49% of the legislative period.
A comprehensive research database from the University of Bremen, documenting parties, elections, and governments for comparative analysis.ParlGov – Parliamentary Democracy Data
Döring, Holger and Philip Manow. 2024. Parliaments and governments database (ParlGov).
The leading expert survey on party positions in Europe. Over 400 political scientists document party stances based on rigorous scientific criteria.CHES – Chapel Hill Expert Survey
Rovny, Jan, et al. “25 Years of Political Party Positions in Europe: The Chapel Hill Expert Survey, 1999-2024.”