Czech & Slovak Leaders 03/2016

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CZECH & SLOVAK

Czech & Slovak Leaders III/2016

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We are facing new challenges

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Martin Stropnický, Minister of Defence

available worldwide online

An interview with

Martin Stropnický, Minister of Defence of the Czech Republic

Registrace na www.prvni3roky.cz

P hoto : A rchive

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June – August 2016

www.czechleaders.com incl. electronic version Praha I Bratislava I Brno I Ostrava I Plzeň I Liberec I Olomouc I Hradec Králové I České Budějovice I Pardubice I Zlín I Jihlava I Karlovy Vary I Mladá Boleslav

P ublisher ’ s

note

&

contents

DEAR READERS, Welcome back from your holidays, wherever you spent it. Hopefully you have refueled yourselves with much needed energy in order to get back to your routine, to be able to keep up with work pressure, family matters and other things, and deal with them with common sense, optimistic spirit and in a rational way.

Being positive even when life gets difficult and not losing hope is a key achievement.

Summer is a very special time in Prague if you have to stay here and work.

The city changes from a buzzing, hectic, sometimes chaotic place to a calm, peaceful and tranquil city with more tourists than Prague citizens – no problem to find parking and restaurants as well as cafes are quite empty.

However, for a publisher it works like this: there are not so many events to cover and in addition, it is a problematic and difficult time business wise, particularly to find people to get necessary information and to close deals.

Having said that, the magazine naturally takes no holiday.

On the front page we are proud and happy to have the Minister of Defence Martin Stropnický who also gave us a very insightful interview.

Other highly interesting interviews, to mention but a few, are with the new Governor of Czech National Bank Jiří Rusnok, Miroslav Kalousek, Leader of the Party Top 09 and former Minister of Finance, Jan Koukal, former Lord Mayor of Prague and Ambassador to Austria, Stefan Hochbauer from SAP, and Ivana Hlavsová, Czech Ambassador to Serbia.

In this issue of Czech & Slovak Leaders you will also find our photo coverages from exciting events such as the Czech/German Summer fest in the beautiful garden of the German Embassy, the gathering of all Czech Ambassadors in the Senate, SAP Conference, ACPM Insurers Award event, SBP Security Conference by CESES, Oracle/Cacio Conference, Round Table Conference by Comenius with Minister of Industry and Trade Mr. Jan Mládek, Pavel Bělobrádek, Deputy Prime Minister for Science, Research and Innovation, Mayor of Prague Adriana Krnáčová, Dana Drábová, Chairwoman of the State Office for Nuclear Safety, National Order of the Legion of Honour and Order of Saint–Charles to Ambassador Marie Chatardová, Canada Day, Italian National Day, Zlatá Koruna Gala, a few traditional presidential visits, Senate, EU Matters and many other articles from our contributors worth reading. Last but not least, the Magazine also features plenty of other photo coverages.

I hope that you, all our readers, will enjoy our latest magazine and I would like to finish this column with a Chinese proverb: With money you can buy a bed but not sleep.

With money you can buy blood but not life.

With money you can buy a book but not knowledge.

Yours sincerely, Benke Aikell benke.aikell@czechleaders.com www.czechleaders.com

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CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS III/2016

events 8 President Miloš Zeman representing the Czech Republic 10 The Presidents of the Slovak and Polish Parliaments in the Czech Senate 20 Round Table of Comenius Discussion dinner with Dana Drábová, Chairwoman of the State Office for Nuclear Safety 22 Round Table of Comenius Discussion dinner with Pavel Bělobrádek, Deputy Prime Minister for Science, Research and Innovation 24 Round Table of Comenius Discussion with Adriana Krnáčová, Mayor of Prague, 21st June 2016, Congress Centre Prague 25 Round Table of Comenius Discussion dinner with Jan Mládek, Minister of Industry and Trade 26 SBP Conference Crises, catastrophes, collapses: How can EU and Czechia face them?

State visit of H.E. Heinz Fischer, President of Austria in the Czech Republic.

From left: H.E. Heinz Fischer, President of Austria with his wife on left and H.E. Miloš Zeman, President of the Czech Republic with his wife on right

 page 8 34

38 41 45

SAP Forum Prague 2016 Czech Republic ready for the digital transformation Cacio Confrence: "Best Technology Investement" Czech Business Club Endowment Fund of Livia and Václav Klaus met sponsors and volunteers 59 Lions Club Prague Bohemia Ambassador Charity-social evening in Austria Palace 60 Ceremonial Opening of Charles IV Exhibition 64 International Conference of WCI – Welcome Club International 68 ELAI – Innovation Week 76 Gala Evening of Zlatá koruna Competition 84 Miroton 90 ČSÚZ – Czechoslovak Foreign Institute general meeting 2016

C ontents

interviews An interview with Martin Stropnický, Minister of Defence of the Czech Republic "We are facing new challenges" An interview with Ing. Zdeněk Reibl, MBA, Chairman of the Board of Directors and General Director of RESPECT, a.s.

"When you don´t get any better you stop being good" 36 An interview with Stefan Höchbauer, Regional President, SAP, Middle and Eastern Europe On digital transformation and its impact on businesses and society 42 An interview with Jiří Rusnok, Governor, Czech National Bank "Success hinges on our ability to address the market" 46 An interview with Miroslav Kalousek, Chairman, TOP 09 (A)political interview about politics from a broader perspective, civic education, leadership and reasons to smile 52 An interview with Rostislav Jirkal, Associate Partner, QED Group and former CEO, Servodata On beauty and challenges of SMEs 66 An interview with Prof. MUDr. Jiří Chomiak, MD, PhD. On sports, warm-up routine and expanding knowledge 74 An interview with Jeffrey Siger, best-selling American author From lawyer to crime writer 78 An interview with Jan Koukal, former Mayor of Prague, Ambassador, and University Lecturer ...and his three (extra) ordinary lives 80 Ambassadors Without Diplomatic Passports – Lucie Mádlová Global summit on corporate sustainability 82 Ambassadors Without Diplomatic Passports – Adam Stewart "I feel a passionate responsibility to educate the next generation" 86 An interview with H.E. Ivana Hlavsová, Ambassador to Serbia "Good diplomats are looking for challenges even at easy times"

Summer party of the German-Czech Chamber of Industry and Commerce

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Beautiful view of the garden of the German embassy

 page 12

diplomatic events 16 Reception For All Czech Ambassadors At The Senate 56 Canada Day 2016 62 Diplomatic events with H.E. Marie Chatardová 69 FRYDAY Diplomatic Forum With H.E. Farid Shafiyev, Ambassador of Azerbaijan 70 FRYDAY Diplomatic Forum With H.E. George Prata, Ambassador of Brasil 71 FRYDAY Diplomatic Forum With the 4 spouses of the Ambassadors of their respective countries: Mrs. Odilia de Ranitz (Netherlands), Mrs.Tamar Newberger-Schapiro (USA), Mrs. Miriam Prata (Brasil), and Mr. Paul Hermans (Belgium) 72 Italian National Day

An interview with Miroslav Kalousek, Chairman, TOP 09 Canada Day 2016

Foto: Nguyen Phuong Thao

 page 46

culture events 12 Summer party of the German-Czech Chamber of Industry and Commerce 30 Gala evening: Insurer of the Year 2015 48 Galerie MIRO Richard Stipl & Josef Zlamal – Sculpture and Drawing

From left: H.E. Otto Jelinek, Ambassador of Canada to the Czech Republic, Milan Štěch, President of the Senate of the Czech Republic, and Jan Hamáček, Chairman of the Chamber of Deputies of the Parliament of the Czech Republic

 page 56

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS III/2016

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contents

contributors 29 Ivan Pilný New paths in medicine 44 Emanuel Šíp Building Act: a long and winding road 50 Jan Mühlfeit The positive leader: fuelling success and happiness in a world of disruptive change 54 Tereza Urbánková Communicating effectively in times of change 55 Jonathan Wootliff Why should women have equal opportunities? The business case against discrimination 75 Elisabet Dennehy Burnout… Why you can’t afford to ignore this issue 88 James A. Cusumano Personal Enlightenment – Life Is Beautiful, Part III: Your amazing brain!

James A. Cusumano Life Is Beautiful Part III: Your Amazing Brain!

 page 88

Publisher: Benke Aikell Head of Editorial: Lenka Helena Koenigsmark Office Assistant: Tatiana Fominykh Webmaster: Petra Kubernátová DTP: Šárka Krausová EU Matters: CEBRE Czech Business Representation, CESES, Europlatform Contributors: James A. Cusumano, Iva Drebitko, Joseph Drebitko, Michael Mayher, ELAI, Martina Hošková, Lenka Helena Koenigsmark, Jaroslav Kramer, Jan Mühlfeit, Ivan Pilný, Linda Štucbartová, Tereza Urbánková, Jonathan Wootliff Photographers: Vladimír Weiss, Marian Majik, Hana Brožková, Pavlina Schulz, Nguyen Phuong Thao, Martin Janas

Figure 1: Life is beautiful and simple to control, but our human mind is naturally blind to this fact. It can be trained to overcome this evolutionary remnant.

EU matters 92 EU matters interview An interview with Peter Javorčík, Permanent Representative of the Slovak Republic to the EU We are set to approach current challenges from a positive angle 94 EU debate Meeting of CEBRE founders with Czech MEPs Seal of Excellence – a second chance for innovative businesses Services passport must lead to true simplification 96 EU matters business

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CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS III/2016

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I nterview

An interview with

Martin Stropnický,

P hoto :

archive

Minister of Defence of the Czech Republic

We are facing new challenges

It was my pleasure to interview for the Czech and Slovak Leaders Magazines one of the most favourite Czech politicians.

Besides being Minister of Defence, Martin Stropnický is also known and popular as an actor, director, writer, and singer.

Mr. Stropnický studied at the Theatre Faculty of the Academy of Performing Arts in Prague and at the Diplomatic Academy in Vienna.

From 1980 until 1990 he worked at the Prague Municipal Theatres and at the Vinohrady Theatre.

In 1990, he joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and served as Czech Ambassador in Portugal and in Italy at the Holy See. In 1998, he was a member of the caretaker government as Minister of Culture.

In 2002, he received the highest Czech theatre award for the role of Howard Katz. From 2003 to 2012, he held the position of Artistic Director of the Vinohrady Theatre.

In 2013 he was elected MP in the Czech Parliament and since January 2014 he has been Minister of Defence of the Czech Republic.

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS III/2016

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P hoto :

archive

Mr. Stropnický, is Europe and the Czech Republic still a safe place? Where do you personally see the biggest threats and how can citizens cope with the situation?

I do not like to terrify people for no reason and therefore my answer will be simple and clear – yes, the Czech Republic and Europe represent a safe place. But we have to be careful and safeguard our democracy and safety more. We all see what is going on around us. After decades of a relatively calm period and having the feeling that nothing can happen, we have now embarked upon a new situation. The security environment has profoundly changed with the annexation of Crimea, hybrid war in East Ukraine, expansion of the Islamic State and terrorist attacks in Europe.

6

Roberta Pinotti, Minister of Defence of Italy and Martin Stropnický, Minister of Defence of the Czech Republic at his state visit of Italy

We are facing new challenges to which we must find common answers within the EU and NATO. If we want to maintain European space a stable one and economic area in the future, we all need to pull together and solve crises at the place of their origin. Problems cannot be resolved by passivity.

It seems that crisis times for society mean good times for the army. Budget and the number of both active soldiers and soldiers in reserve are growing. How can the Czech Army use this opportunity? And can some positives be found for the society as a whole?

The Czech Army has not been sufficiently financed and has been pushed to the sidelines.

This resulted in a hidden debt of 100 bn. CZK

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS III/2016

(approx. 3.7 bn. EUR) and low numbers of professional soldiers and active reserve soldiers. Now, we are trying to change it. We have managed to secure a higher budget, we have started new modernisation projects, every year we hire two thousand professional soldiers, and we have created more attractive conditions for active reserve soldiers as we would like to increase the numbers from 1,300 to 5,000. All of our activities are designed to ensure a safe environment and maximum protection for the citizens of our country. Many people perceive it the same way.

If there is something positive regarding the situation, then it is the patriotism of people and their interest in things happening.

One of your goals was for the Army to become again a trustworthy partner of entre-

I nterview preneurs, you support the Czech defence industry and you stopped using agents for purchasing. Have you already achieved some specific results?

We have the outline for our defence budget for the next two years and key concept documents that represent a basis for mutual prosperous cooperation. Overall, the Army has a clearly defined plan what to buy and when and the outline for the budget serves as a guarantee that there is a budget secured for the planned acquisition.

The domestic industry has the information as what requirements to prepare for in time and as a result the mutual communication has improved.

We continuously work on improving acquisition processes. We are dismantling the historic legacy which had a wrong acquisition setup. Companies could see some positive results by the end of this year. Whenever it is possible, we will support multiple-year contracts. These will be concluded with domestic manufacturers and important investment contracts will be concluded for the life cycle of the material required. Overall, in more than two years, we will have done substantial amount of work that will benefit both parties.

The common denominator must always be the defence capability of our state.

The Army of the Czech Republic has always belonged to institutions that have managed to maintain high level of credibility, despite adverse conditions. How do you explain this phenomenon and what are the areas that you would like to stress in future development of the Army?

According to the polls, 72 % of the public trusts the Army, which is the highest level from all state institutions. Being the Minister of Defence, I take pride and get motivation for further work.

In two and half years in the office, I have visited most of the army units as well as soldiers serving in missions abroad. I witnessed that men and women in uniforms perform extraordinary tasks and so the credibility is well deserved.

Periods in your career would easily suffice for someone’s lifetime. You had a remarkable career as an actor and director, then in diplomacy and nowadays in politics.

What were the lessons learned from each distinct period? Do you still have any unfulfilled plans or dreams? And is there any environment that you miss?

I enjoy changing environments and professions, I enjoy learning and overcoming obstacles. It is true that from time to time I think that it is too much and I would deserve a bit of quiet time. My entry into a political life was totally spontaneous. As a citizen, I felt that the situation in the Czech Republic had become unbearable. I was very satisfied in my personal and professional life, but the public space before 2013 elections started to feel like the period of normalisation (1980s in communist Czechoslovakia – LŠ comment). Perhaps today such words might sound too daring and some smart aleck might laugh at me but I truly entered politics feeling the citizen’s duty.

P hoto :

You are often characterised as extremely committed to work. Is it possible to maintain work-life balance in top politics?

And to what extent does the fact that politicians often sacrifice family and free time determine the decision to enter active politics in the first place?

Commitment is just a sign of inner energy that each one of us possesses. It is just the way I am, it is not any special merit. However, as I am getting older, I think that I should slow down. I do not like when someone prides on their productivity. And I totally dislike stories about someone who spends weekends working, on weekdays works from six in the morning until nine in the evening and in the evenings he is angry since his family distracts him from studying papers during dinner time.

Someone who cannot have a rest and someone who does not have another dimension, cannot be productive anyway. You cannot save the world by “yielding up the ghost”.

You seem to be a consensual leader. Is it due to your previous experience with acting or diplomacy? And how would you characterise a successful leader?

I cannot say whether I am consensual, I cannot judge myself. Politics is a permanent conflict of ideas. The diversity of ideas is very precious.

But the ability to connect the differences from discussion into a functional and prosperous compromise is even more precious. In order to do so, you need to have self-control and patience. You need to have self-confidence

archive

without being patronising. And you must not be afraid. No politician will ever admit this but most crises and conflicts originate due to fear.

And fear has various causes. But this would be a long story…

It seems to me that not enough of attention is paid to the issue of women in the army…

I do not think so. Compared to the police, women are respected part of the army. From approximately twenty thousand soldiers, about 15 % are women. In this aspect, we rank in the first half of the NATO countries. We have several high ranking officials such as L-159 CASA airplane pilots or women soldiers participating in foreign missions. I somewhat carefully can say that the only thing we are missing is the female in the ranks of the general. But that is only a matter of time.

What are your final words for Czech and Slovak Leaders readers?

Leaders should not forget their roots. They should not think only about themselves getting re-elected. They should be educated, experienced and balanced. They should have the courage to promote the important things in which they believe. If not, then there is a risk that a leader will become a clown.

By Linda Štucbartová české znění naleznete v elektronické verzi magazínu na www.czechleaders.com

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS III/2016

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PRESIDENTIAL

11th ASEM summit, Mongolia

P hoto : A rchive KPR, H ana B rožková

State visit of H.E. Xi Jinping, President of the People´s Republic of China to the Czech Republic

H.E. Miloš Zeman, President of the Czech Republic received Mrs. Irina Bokova, Director-General of UNESCO

H.E. MIloš Zeman, President of the Czech Republic received H.E. Mohammed VI, King of Morocco

H.E. Miloš Zeman decorated former Austrian ambassador Ferdinand Trauttmansdorff with the Order of White Lion of the Fourth Class, supreme state medal

State visit of H.E. Xi Jinping, President of the People´s Republic of China to the Czech Republic

State visit of Xi Jinping, President of the People´s Republic of China to the Czech Republic

State visit of H.E. Heinz Fischer, President of Austria in the Czech Republic

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CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS III/2016

PRESIDENTIAL

State visit to Macedonia, from left: H.E. Gjorge Ivanov, President of the Republic of Macedonia and H.E. Miloš Zeman, President of the Czech Republic

State visit of H.E. Heinz Fischer, President of Austria in the Czech Republic.

From left: H.E. Heinz Fischer, President of Austria with his wife on left and H.E. Miloš Zeman, President of the Czech Republic with his wife on right

State visit of H.E. Heinz Fischer, President of Austria in the Czech Republic

From left: H.E. Miloš Zeman, President of the Czech Republic and H.E. Serzh Sargsyan, President of the Republic of Armenia

H.E. Serzh Sargsyan, President of the Republic of Armenia and H.E. Miloš Zeman, President of the Czech Republic during the welcome ceremony in the Republic of Armenia

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS III/2016

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S enate

P hotos : S enate C hancellery

Czech and Polish Senate delegations in the meeting

The top representatives of our closest neighbours´ parliaments have visited the Czech Republic for the first time. The President of the Slovak National Council Andrej Danko and Marshal of the Polish Senate Stanislaw Karczewski accepted the invitation of the President of the Senate of the Czech Parliament Milan Štěch.

In addition to their official meetings in the Senate, the guests also attended meetings with the ministers, Prime Minister and many more.

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Milan Štěch, President of the Senate of the Parliament of the Czech Republic and Andrej Danko, President of the Slovak National Council attend the press briefing

Working lunch

Milan Štěch, President of the Senate of the Parliament of the Czech Republic and Stanislaw Karczewski, Marshal of the Polish Senate

S enate

Milan Štěch, President of the Senate of the Parliament of the Czech Republic handing a gift over to Stanislaw Karczewski, Marshal of the Polish Senate

President of the Senate of the Parliament of the Czech Republic Milan Štěch invited the President of the Slovak National Council Andrej Danko to Prague Milan Štěch, President of the Senate of the Parliament of the Czech Republic and Stanislaw Karczewski, Marshal of the Polish Senate attend the press briefing

Left-right: Milan Štěch, President of the Senate of the Parliament of the Czech Republic and Ivo Bárek, Vice President of the Czech Senate Slovak delegation during a guided tour of the Wallenstein Palace, the seat of the Czech Senate

Milan Štěch, President of the Senate of the Parliament of the Czech Republic with the Slovak delegation including Andrej Danko, President of the Slovak National Council and H.E. Livia Klausová, former First Lady and currently Czech Ambassador to Slovakia

Stanislaw Karczewski, Marshal of the Polish Senate

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summer party

Summer party of the German-Czech Chamber of Industry and Commerce

P hoto : J aromír Z ubák , L ukáš H aupt , M artin J anas

On June 9 th, the annual summer party of the German-Czech Chamber of Industry and Commerce (DTIHK) took place at the historical site of the German embassy in Prague. The garden party attracted more than 1000 guests, among them high-ranking members of the Czech-German business community and government institutions and associations. Apart from networking, the chambers’ guests had a perfect time by checking out current and vintage Škoda models, learning how to dance salsa on the dancefloor or taking a look at the Genscher balcony. Beautiful weather, cocktails, delicious food and vibrant music completed the atmosphere of this unforgettable summer night.

Beautiful view of the garden of the German embassy

H.E. Dr. Arndt Freiherr Freytag von Loringhoven, Ambassador of Germany

The mayor of Prague Adriana Krnáčová together with the delegation of HK Hamburg and representatives of Škoda Auto a.s.

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CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS III/2016

Fritz-Horst Melsheimer, President of HK Hamburg

Axel Limberg, President DTIHK/ČNOPK and Executive Director, EnBW CZ spol. s r.o.

Bernhard Maier, Chairman of the Board, Škoda Auto a. s.

summer party

The delegation IHK Dresden

Ing. Petr Pomahač, Director CR SK, Kaba GmbH with his partner

The delegation IHK Regensburg

Matteo Scaravelli, Siemens s.r.o. and Susanne Scaravelli, CMC

From left: Adam Zaydlar ACCA, CEO, Medexo CZ s.r.o., and Marcel Valtr, Senior Consultant, Business Development Manager, Gräwe and Partner GmbH

From left: Christian Flössner, Vice President, IHK Dresden and Wolfram Schnelle, Director of Industry & Foreign Trade, IHK Dresden

From left: Mgr. Petr Šulc, Vice-rector for study affairs, ŠKODA AUTO VYSOKÁ ŠKOLA o.p.s. and Pavel Mertlík, Vice Rector , ŠKODA AUTO VYSOKÁ ŠKOLA o.p.s.

Stefan Anochin, Anochin Roters Kollegen with his wife

From left: Reinhard Mathieu, Managing Director, Volkswagen Financial Services, his wife, and Darina Sontag, Manager of International Desk, Komerční banka, a.s.

From left: Dirk Friedrich, Director and Radek Páral, Procurist, both from Zdas SGS GmbH

Dimitros Donoudis, CEO, Termotechnology, Bosch s.r.o. and Nora Houštavová, CEO and Sales Director, Bosch s.r.o.

From left: Wolfgang Heuchel, Director, LANXESS s.r.o., Radek Laňka, and Eva Tržilová, Supply Manager, ČGS a.s.

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS III/2016

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summer party

From left: Michaela Křížková and Kristýna Březinová, both from Švehlík and Mikuláš Attorneys s.r.o.

Doc. Ing. František Pavelka, CSc., Rector, Bankovní Institut with his wife

From left: Ing. Andrea Jůzová, Secretary of the Committee on National Economy, Agriculture and Transport, Senate Chancellery, and Petr Bratský, Senator

Vlasta Sedláková, Sales-Assistant, Acomware s.r.o. and Raul Stuchlík, Executive Director, Marlenka international s.r.o.

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Jan Hnilica, Managing Director, Čerozfrucht s.r.o. with his family

Tadashi Murakami, Director-General, JETRO Prague with his wife

Michael Czempinski, 1st Secretary, Head of Administration of German Embassy with his wife

From left: H.E. Dr. Arndt Freiherr Freytag von Loringhoven, Ambassador of Germany, Petr Vokřál, Mayor of Brno, and Mrs. Barbara von Ow-Freytag

summer party

Škoda Auto a.s. - sponsor table

IHK Regensburg für Oberpfalz/Kelheim - sponsor table

Caribe band

Komerční banka, a.s. - sponsor table

Železárny Annahütte, spol. s r.o. - sponsor table

Handelskammer Hamburg - sponsor table

The Party Band

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In

diplomatic event

RECEPTION FOR ALL CZECH AMBASSADORS AT THE SENATE

From left: H.E. Robert Kopecký, Ambassador to Libya and Ing. Zdeněk Semerád, National Museum

From left: H.E. Miroslav Toman, Ambassador to Afghanistan, František Bublan, Senator, and H.E. Jaroslav Kurfürst, Ambassador to Belgium

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cooperation with

From left: Vladimír Bärtl, Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade, Lubomír Zaorálek, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Milan Štěch, President of the Senate of the Parliament of the Czech Republic

On August 23rd, President of the Senate of the Parliament of the Czech Republic Milan Štěch hosted a traditional meeting of senators with the heads of representative offices of the Czech Republic abroad. The President of the Senate of the Parliament of the Czech Republic Milan Štěch and Minister of Foreign Affairs Lubomír Zaorálek spoke to the diplomatic corps on the ceremonial meeting, which was held in Wallenstein Palace.

From left: RNDr. Miloš Vystrčil, Senator, Ondřej Boháč, Secretary of the Deputy of the Minister, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mrs. Eva Filipi, Jaroslav Zeman, Senator, and Ing. Jan Veleba, Senator

From left: H.E. Hana Mottlová, Ambassador to Ireland and H.E. Pavel Řezáč, Ambassador to Kenya

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS III/2016

C zech & S lovak L eaders

From left: Lukáš Vacík, Advisor to the Chairman of the Senate and Petr Martinec, Advisor to the Committee on EU Affairs

From left: Petr Fleischmann, Advisor, Senate and H.E. Jiří Doležel, Ambassador to Tunisia

Applause for the speeches

From left: Bořek Cizec, Consul Generall in Chicago, and Ing. Josef Táborský, Senator

From left: Martin Tlapa, MBA, Deputy Minister, Ministry of Industry and Trade and H.E. Vladimír Zavázal, Ambassador to Croatia

From left: H.E. Jiří Šitler, Ambassador to Sweden and Jiři Dienstbier, Senator and Minister for Human Rights

Applause for the speeches

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS III/2016

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diplomatic event

From left: Vladimír Bärtl, Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade, Milan Štěch, President of the Senate of the Parliament of the Czech Republic, and Lubomír Zaorálek, Minister of Foreign Affairs

From left: Vladimír Bärtl, Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade and Eva Davidová, Press Secretary, Senate of the Parliament of the Czech Republic

From left: H. E. Karel Beran, General Director, Diplomatic Service and newly appointed Ambassador to Argentina, Jiří Uklein, Secretary General, Senate of the Parliament of the Czech Republic, H.E. Petr Kubernát, Ambassador to Luxembourg, and H.E. Tomáš Dub, Ambassador to Japan

Mgr. Jana Kružíková, Secretary, Senate of the Parliament of the Czech Republic and H.E. Milan Hovorka, Ambassador to India

From left: MUDr. Mgr. Vladimír Plaček, MBA, Senator, Václava Brabcová, Secretary, Senate Chancellery, and MUDr. Hassan Mezian, Senator

From left: Benke Aikell, your Publisher and Milan Štěch, President of the Senate of the Parliament of the Czech Republic

From left: Benke Aikell, your Publisher, H.E. Marie Chatardová, newly appointed Ambassador to the United Nations, and H.E. Jaroslav Kurfürst, Ambassador to Belgium

Miluše Norská, Vice President, Senate of the Parliament of the Czech Republic and H.E. Miroslav Kosek, Ambassador to Latvia

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CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS III/2016

From left: Martin Tlapa, MBA, Deputy Minister, Ministry of Industry and Trade, Ing. Andrea Jůzová, Secretary of the Committee on National Economy, Agriculture and Transport, Senate Chancellery, and Jan Hajda, Chairman of the Committe on National Economy, Agriculture and Transport, Senate

diplomatic event

From left: Jiří Vosecký, Senator, Benke Aikell, your Publisher, and Ivo Valenta, Senator

From left: Miroslav Škaloud, Vice Chairperson, Committee on Legal and Consitutional Affairs, Senate, PhDr. Petr Kostka, Avisor to the Vice Chairman of the Senate, and H.E. Milan Hovorka, Ambassador to India

H.E. Karel Borůvka, Ambassador to Switzerland and Prof. MUDr. Eva Syková, DrSc., FCMA, Senator

From left: Milan Štěch, President of the Senate of the Parliament of the Czech Republic, Eva Davidová, Press Secretary, Senate of the Parliament of the Czech Republic, and H.E. Pavel Hrnčíř, Ambassador to Canada

From left: PhDr. Jiří Nenutil, Miroslav Nenutil, Chairman, Standing Senate Commission on Rural Development, Senate, H.E. Emil Ruffer, Ambassador, Permanent Representative of the Czech Republic to the Council of Europe, and Radek Merkl, ZOS

From left: Aleš Jakubec, Senate, Mrs. Kateřina Košaříková, Mrs. Lenka Aronová, and JUDr. Květa Skoupá, Secretary of Committee on Legal and Constitutional Affairs, Senate Chancellery

From left: H.E. Karel Borůvka, Ambassador to Switzerland, Jiří Čunek, Kristina Larischová, Junior Deputy Minister of the Chancery, Director of the Public Diplomacy Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic, and H.E.Pavel Vošálík, Ambassador to Italy

From left: Petr Bratský, Senator, Ing. Andrea Jůzová, Secretary of the Committee on National Economy, Agriculture and Transport, Senate Chancellery, and H.E. Juraj Chmiel, Ambassador to Hungary

From left: H.E. Pavel Hrnčíř, Ambassador to Canada, Vladimír Bärtl, Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade, Lubomír Zaorálek, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Benke Aikell, your Publisher

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS III/2016

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networking / discussion event

In

cooperation with

C zech & S lovak L eaders The Round Table of Comenius

Round Table of Comenius Discussion Dinner with Dana Drábová,

Chairwoman of the State Office for Nuclear Safety

On May 10 th Ms. Dana Drábová, Chairwoman of the State Office for Nuclear Safety, was the guest of Round Table of Comenius that occurred in TOP HOTEL Praha. Among others, the main topics were safe and economic treatment of nuclear extraction in the Czech Republic, the possible expansion of nuclear industry and the role of Czech nuclear power plants in the economy of the country as well as their role in Europe.

From left: Josef Postránecký, Supreme State Secretary, Dana Drábová, Chairwoman of the State Office for Nuclear Safety, Karel Muzikář Jr., Managing Partner, Weil, Gotshal & Manges

Zuzana Šolcová, Executive Director, Association of Energy Managers and Jan Kořán, Partner, KF Legal

Jiří Maceška, Vice President, Czech-Israeli Chamber of Commerce and Chairman of the Supervisory Board, Čeps, a.s. in his speech

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CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS III/2016

From left: Jiří Maceška, Vice President, Czech-Israeli Chamber of Commerce and Chairman of the Supervisory Board, Čeps,a.s. and and Vladimír Dohnal, Owner, TOP hotels Group

Peter Bodnár, General Director, Škoda Praha

Rostislav Dvořák, Chairman, Czech & Moravian Union of Production Cooperatives and Dana Drábová, Chairwoman of the State Office for Nuclear Safety

From left: Josef Postránecký, Supreme State Secretary, Dana Drábová, Chairwoman of the State Office for Nuclear Safety, and Karel Muzikář, President, Comenius

From left: Tomáš Čáp, Executive Vice President, Comenius and Michal Donath, General Director, Donath Business & Media

From left: Karel Křížek, General Director & Chairman of the Board, ÚJV Řež and Zdeněk Šíma, Regional Vice President, Rusatom Overseas

From left: Tomáš Čáp, Executive Vice President, Comenius, Daniel Štěpán, Member of the Board, Prague Congress Center, and Šimon Nosek, Advisor From left: Ivo Hlaváč, Member of the Board, ČEZ, Dana Drábová, Chairwoman of the State Office for Nuclear Safety, Karel Muzikář, President, Comenius, and Josef Postránecký, Supreme State Secretary

Rostislav Dvořák, Chairman, Czech & Moravian Union of Production Cooperatives

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS III/2016

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networking / discussion event

In

cooperation with

C zech & S lovak L eaders

From left: Chao Jiang, Head of Political Department, Embassy of the People ´s Republic of China, Helen Wang, Director of Public Relations and Corporate Communications Department, Huawei Czech, Pavel Bělobrádek, Deputy Prime Minister, Karel Muzikář, President, Comenius, Lucie Orgoníková, Deputy to Deputy Prime Minister, prof. Tomáš Zima, Rector, Charles University in Prague, and Pavel Švagr, Chairman, Administration of State Material Reserves

Round Table of Comenius Discussion Dinner with Pavel Bělobrádek,

Deputy Prime Minister for Science, Research and Innovation

On May 25 th a traditional Round Table of Comenius with the guest of honor, leader of KDU-ČSL, Deputy Prime Minister for Science, Research and Innovation, Mr. Pavel Bělobrádek, took place in TOP HOTEL Praha. The discussion between members of parliament and prominent business and cultural figures mainly revolved around industrial automatization, mandatory mathematical examination during graduation and the availability of qualified personnel in comparison to other members of the European Union.

From left: Karel Muzikář, President, Comenius, Alena Gajdušková, Advisor to the PM, Vladimír Dohnal, Owner, TOP hotels Group, and H.E. Peter Weiss, Ambassador, Embassy of the Slovak Republic

From left: Karel Muzikář, President, Comenius, Alena Gajdušková, Advisor to the PM, Lucie Orgoníková, Deputy to Deputy PM, and prof. Tomáš Zima, Rector, Charles University in Prague

From left: Josef Kotrba, Managing Partner, Deloitte, Karel Dobeš, Government Assignee for Cooperation wih the European Agency for GNSS, H.E. Peter Weiss, Ambassador, Embassy of the Slovak Republic, prof. Josef Veselka, Head of Cardiology Department, Faculty Hospital Motol, and Daniel Vavřina, President, HealthCare Institute

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CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS III/2016

From left: Radek Rosa, Deputy Chairman of the Board, NOEN and Jiří Řehák, Director of Department, NOEN

From left: Adam Sliwka, Director of Strategic Development, NESS Czech, Radek Rosa, Deputy Chairman of the Board, NOEN, Jan Podroužek, Director, Institute for Language and Preparatory Studies, Charles Unversity in Prague, Josef Kotrba, Managing Partner, Deloitte, and Karel Dobeš, Government Assignee for Cooperation wih the European Agency for GNSS

From left: Jan Proček, Head of Department, Brno University of Technology, Libor Joukl, Deputy Governor, Vysočina Region, and prof. Jozef Kaiser, Head of Department, Brno University of Technology

From left: Chao Jiang, Head of Political Department, Embassy of the People ´s Republic of China and Daniel Vavřina, President, HealthCare Institute

Prof. Josef Veselka, Head of Cardiology Department, Faculty Hospital Motol

Josef Kotrba, Managing Partner, Deloitte and Helen Wang, Director of Public Relations and Corporate Communications Department, Huawei Czech

From left: Roman Mužík, General Director, AVE CZ odpadové hospodářství, Kateřina Hrubešová, Executive Director, Sdružení pro internetový rozvoj v České republice, Václav Irovský, Managing Partner, FoxClique, and Petr Hotovec, Executive Director, Zenova Services

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS III/2016

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networking / discussion event

In

cooperation with

C zech & S lovak L eaders

From left: Karel Muzikář, President, Comenius, Adriana Krnáčová, Mayor of the Capital City of Prague, and Karel Muzikář Jr., Managing Partner, Weil, Gotshal & Manges

From left: Roman Stejskal, Strategic Sales Manager, NESS Czech and Jakub Joska, Partner, KF Legal Law Office

Round Table of Comenius

Discussion with Adriana Krnáčová, Mayor of Prague, 21st June 2016, Congress Centre Prague

On June 21, the traditional discussion event “Round Table of Comenius” took place in the Congress Centre in Prague, this time with the Mayor of the Czech Capital City, Adriana Krnáčová. Former successful businesswoman and historically first woman to be the mayor of Prague started the discussion by reviewing some of the achievements of Prague since she was elected and thanked the longtime partners that have aided in those accomplishments. Furthermore, she introduced the shape of significant strategic and metropolitan plans, the likely expansion of Prague in future decades and security of the capital city.

From left: Martin Lukš, Director, Xevos, Tomáš Čáp, Executive Vice President, Comenius, Jiří Stich, Commercial Director, Atos CZ, and Eduard Šuster, Director, Municipal Police of Prague

From left: Jaroslav Javornický, Owner, Spielberg CZ, Martin Unger, Member of the Board, PasserInvest Group, and Karel Grabein Procházka, Member of the City Council of the Capital City of Prague

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From left: Martin Unger, Member of the Board, PasserInvest Group and Martin Bílek, Managing Director, K+K Autoservis Czech

Jaromír Šlápota, Chairman, Czechoslovak Foreign Institute

Jan Trojánek, Member of the City Council, Prague 5

From left: Jaroslav Javornický, Owner, Spielberg.CZ and Benke Aikell, your Publisher

From left: Jiří Vacek, Co-Owner, Avanti, Miroslava Procházková, Co-Owner, Avanti, and František Blažek, Vice Chairman, Chamber of Commerce of Prague

From left: Josef Kotrba, Managing Partner, Deloitte, Josef Postránecký, Supreme Secretary of State, and Jiřina Nepalová, Owner, Renomia

Martin Podzimek, Owner, Podzimek a synové

networking / discussion event

In

cooperation with

C zech & S lovak L eaders

From left: Josef Jeleček, General Director, Tedom, Tomáš Bičák, Head of Department, Tedom, and Cyril Svozil, Managing Director, Fenix Group

Rostislav Dvořák, Chairman, Union of the Czech and Slovak Production Cooperatives raising a question

From left: Benke Aikell, your Publisher, Jiří Nekovář, President, Euro-Trend, Jan Mládek, Minister of Industry and Trade, and Karel Muzikář, President, Comenius

Round Table of Comenius

Discussion Dinner with Jan Mládek, Minister of Industry and Trade On June 30 th, Prague hotel Pyramida hosted a discussion event “Round Table of Comenius" with the Minister of Industry and Trade Jan Mládek. Discussion revolved around various economic and political topics. The minister presented some of his opinions regarding current Czech and European challenges such as the integration of work force, export/import status and the developing situation concerning Brexit. Furthermore, the attendees discussed the current governing administration, production of industry, general apprehension of migration and the pros and cons of low unemployment of the Czech Republic, which ranks among the lowest in Europe. The Round Table was traditionally opened and closed by a brief statement of the president of Comenius, Karel Muzikář.

From left: Gabriela Ben Ahmed, Co Owner, COT Media and Hana Dluhošová, Director of Investments, Czech Railway

From left: Dana Široká, Renomia, Tomáš Březina, Owner, Best, and Hana Šmejkalová, General Director, East Bohemian Airport

From left: Richard Vidlička, Chairman of the Board, ČEZ Distribuce, Petr Paukner, Owner, Carbounion Bohemia, Eva Havlíčková, Carbounion Bohemia, and Karel Muzikář, President, Comenius

From left: Jan Průcha, CEO, Insight Home and Pavel Krůta, General Director, Korus EU

From left: Roman Baláž, Commercial Director, MSA, Petr Paukner, Owner, Carbounion Bohemia, Cyril Svozil, Managing Director, Fenix Group, and Tomáš Bičák, Head of Department, Tedom

Adéla Šimková, Rowan Legal and Adam Sybera, Comenius

From left: Rostislav Dvořák, Chairman, Union of the Czech and Slovak Production Cooperatives, Tomáš Březina, Owner, Best, Karel Muzikář, President, Comenius, Petr Bašek, Senior Account Manager, Huawei Czech, Helen Wang, Director of Public Relations and Corporate Communications, Huawei Czech, Marek Switajewski, CEO, Unipetrol, and Jiří Hošek, Director – Regulatory Risks, Unipetrol

From left: Jiří Havlíček, Deputy Minister, Ministry of Industry and Trade, Marek Switajewski, CEO, Unipetrol, Jiřina Nepalová, Owner, Renomia, Jan Mládek, Minister of Industry and Trade, Karel Muzikář, President, Comenius, and Roman Baláž, Commercial Director, MSA

From left: Josef Jeleček, General Director, Tedom and Jiří Havlíček, Deputy Minister, Ministry of Industry and Trade

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SBP CONFERENCE

Crises, catastrophes, collapses: How can EU and Czechia face them?

From left: Adm. Giampaolo di Paola, former Chairman of the NATO Military Committee, former Minister of Defence of Italy, former Chief of Staff of the Italian Army, Tomáš Přibyl, Director, CyberGym Europe, Timothy Prior, Head of Risk and Resilience Research Team, Center for Security, and Martin Veselovský, DVTV

IN COOPERATION WITH CZECH & SLOVAK LEADERS

On June 10th, 2016, Prague hosted international conference „Crises, catastrophes, collapses: How can EU and Czechia face them?“ The conference with more than 200 attendees was traditionally organized by the Center for Security Policy at the Institute of Political Studies of the Faculty of Social Sciences, Charles University in Prague in cooperation with Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung e.V. representation in the Czech Republic, and the Representation of the European Commission in the Czech Republic. Besides the conference, an accompanying event, the Glass of Wine, took place at the Embassy of Italy in Prague at the eve of the Conference.

Jan Matoušek, Chief Executive Officer, Czech Insurance Association

From left: Miloš Balabán, Head of the Center for Security Policy, IPS, FSS, Charles University in Prague and H.E. Aldo Amati, Ambassador of Italy to the Czech Republic

From left: Luděk Moravec, Security Research and Police Education Department, Ministry of Interior of the Czech Republic, Jan Ludvík, Center for Security Policy, IPS, FSS, Charles University in Prague, and Miloš Balabán, Head, Center for Security Policy, IPS, FSS, Charles University in Prague

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CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS III/2016

From left: prof. Eduard Gombár, Head of the Institute of Near Eastern and African Studies, Faculty of Arts, Charles University in Prague and prof. Václav Bělohradský, Political Scientist and Op-ed columnist

From left: Jan Matoušek, Chief Executive Officer, Czech Insurance Association, H.E. Aldo Amati, Ambassador of the Italy to the Czech Republic, and Adm. Giampaolo di Paola, former Chairman of the NATO Military Committee, former Minister of Defence of Italy, former Chief of Staff of the Italian Army

From left: Jan Ludvík, Pavlína Bláhová, Michal Smetana, Miloš Balabán, Pavel Mička – all from Center for Security Policy, IPS, FSS, Charles University in Prague, Lubomír Zaorálek, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic, and Mirka Kortusová with Libor Stejskal, both from Center for Security Policy, IPS, FSS, Charles University in Prague

SBP CONFERENCE

Daniela Drtinová, DVTV and Martin Veselovský, DVTV

Lubomír Zaorálek, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic

From left: Lubomír Zaorálek, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic, Daniela Drtinová, DVTV, Jan Ludvík, Center for Security Policy, IPS, FSS, Charles University in Prague, Libor Stejskal, Center for Security Policy, IPS, FSS, Charles University in Prague, Miloš Balabán, Head of the Center for Security Policy, IPS, FSS, Charles University in Prague, Prof. Václav Bělohradský, Political Scientist and Op-ed columnist, Prof. Miroslav Bárta, Head of the Czech Institute of Egyptology, Faculty of Arts, Charles University in Prague, Tomáš Prouza, State Secretary for European Affairs , and Martin Veselovský, DVTV

From left: Pavel Mička, Center for Security Policy, IPS, FSS, Charles University in Prague, Anne Seyffeth, Director, Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung e.V. representation in the Czech Republic, H.E. Aldo Amati, Ambassador of Italy to the Czech Republic, and Oldřich Bureš, Metropolitan University in Prague; Institute of Political Sciences, Faculty of Social Sciences, Charles University

From left: Prof. Miroslav Bárta, Head of the Czech Institute of Egyptology, Faculty of Arts, Charles University in Prague and Tomáš Prouza, State Secretary for European Affairs

Tomáš Prouza, State Secretary for European Affairs

From left: Vice Admiral (ret.) Lutz Feldt, President of EuroDéfense Deutschland, Ian Clark, Head of Policy and Implementation Framework Unit at the Directorate General Humanitarian Aid and Civil Protection (ECHO), and Jaroslav Rožnovský, Director of the Czech Hydrometeorological Institute, Brno branch

From left: Col. Daniel Miklós, Head of the Department of Population Protection and Emergency Management of the Fire Rescue Service of the Czech Republic, Vice Admiral (ret.) Lutz Feldt, President of EuroDéfense Deutschland, and Ian Clark, Head of Policy and Implementation Framework Unit at the Directorate General Humanitarian Aid and Civil Protection (ECHO)

From left: Jaroslav Rožnovský, Director,Czech Hydrometeorological Institute, Brno branch and Jan Matoušek, Chief Executive Officer, Czech Insurance Association

From left: Zlata Vodenková, Cerebrum, Dana Kollárová, Director, Cerebrum, and Mirka Kortusová Chairwoman of the Board, Cerebrum, Center for Security Policy, IPS, FSS, Charles University in Prague

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS III/2016

27

SBP CONFERENCE

From left: David Chovanec, Security Policy and Crime Prevention Department at Ministry of the Interior of the Czech Republic, and Adm. Giampaolo di Paola, former Chairman of the NATO Military Committee, former Minister of Defence of Italy, former Chief of Staff of the Italian Army

Dana Drábová , Chairwoman of the State Office for Nuclear Safety of the Czech Republic

From left: Luděk Moravec, Security Research and Police Education Department, Ministry of Interior of the Czech Republic, Jiří Chalupa, Liaison Officer for Civil Protection, Permanent Delegation of the Czech Republic to NATO and EU, and Dana Drábová, Chairwoman of the State Office for Nuclear Safety of the Czech Republic

From left: H.E. Aldo Amati, Ambassador of Italy to the Czech Republic and Tomáš Přibyl, Director, CyberGym Europe

From left: David Chovanec, Director of Department - Security Policy and Crime Prevention at Ministry of the Interior of the Czech Republic, and Adm. Giampaolo di Paola, former Chairman of the NATO Military Committee, former Minister of Defence of Italy, former Chief of Staff of the Italian Army

From left: Jan Ludvík, Center for Security Policy, IPS, FSS, Charles University in Prague, Daniela Drtinová, DVTV, Martin Veselovský, DVTV, Mirka Kortusová, Center for Security Policy, IPS, FSS, Charles University in Prague, Miloš Balabán, Head of the Center for Security Policy, IPS, FSS, Charles University in Prague, and Libor Stejskal, Center for Security Policy, IPS, FSS, Charles University in Prague

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C ontributors A possibility of immediate communication with a doctor brings along its advantages. Sensors monitoring life functions can instantly send your doctor an emergency signal. Thus, health care is reaching a new dimension. Thanks to these sensors, doctors get instant access to the data on your health condition and we may be under their continual supervision. Just in case they cannot provide the treatment from afar, visiting them in person is necessary. On the other hand, this situation brings along certain risks too. Diagnosing yourself based on the data from the Internet or sensors may not only be wrong but dangerous too. On the Internet, we can find plenty of unproven and controversial facts; it definitely pays off to leave the diagnosis to doctors.

New Paths

of personal visits or even hospitalisation. Development and price reduction of sensors will make health monitoring easier for them.

Then, people themselves may adjust their behaviours, eating habits and exercising based on the data collected by sensors.

Blood pressure or heart rhythm record may serve us as an indicator of possible stress in various situations, which then can be handled better or avoided. However, doctors cannot become mere data collectors. Seeing patients and talking to them is still necessary for determining the correct diagnosis and treatment. Data alone will not improve the health care, which can also be seen in researches from the USA, where the government gave billions of dollars to health data processing and the results are unconvincing. In addition to other aspects, this is also caused by a great issue with its unified structure because the data comes from plenty of varied sources. Just like in any other big and complex IT system, health care also needs pilot tests and gradual removal of mistakes. After

in Medicine

A research carried out in the USA showed that six out of 10 Americans diagnose themselves wrongly based on the data found on the Internet. There is definitely no threat of making doctors redundant; this is rather about rationalising their work and improving the process of diagnosing thanks to the possibility of continuous patient´s monitoring remotely with no necessity

all, it is our health which is at stake, not a car register. “Doctor Algorithm” may not win over “Doctor Human”. They just cooperate.

For those who are used to exercising or moving regularly, it is natural to record their activities and monitor their targets. All this data also impacts prevention which radically influences or completely removes the causes, not only results of health problems. There are thermometers-pills which you can swallow – these are for example used to monitor the temperature of sportsmen during their exercise.

Medicine has also progressed in prevention and new diagnostic models. Thanks to the digitalisation of the methods of human genome sequencing, the cost of determining a diagnosis went down from 100 million dollars in 2001 to 10,000 dollars in 2011.

This alone means a breakthrough in diagnosing mental illnesses and enables us to solve the causes not the results. However, “playing with genetics” may also bring along serious human, philosophical, and social questions. Thanks to artificial insemination you can have a child with anybody who has a suitable genetic material, so genetic material may not only cure but can also modify and clone the population. Discovery and development of the cure against dementia may lead to a conclusion that retiring from work is useless as brain generally benefits from physical exercise, work, and intellectual activity.

Extract from a new book Digitální ekonomika published by Albatros Media.

By Ivan Pilný Member of the Parliament, ANO party President of Tuesday Business Network české znění naleznete v elektronické verzi magazínu na www.czechleaders.com

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS III/2016

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gala evening Industry Insurance category winners with their well-wishers from left: Mgr. Marek Čáp, Director, KPMG ČR, Ing. Jiří Sýkora, Board Member, Kooperativa (silver), Jiřina Nepalová, AČPM Chair, Ing. Jaroslav Besperát, CEO, Česká podnikatelská pojišťovna (gold), Jan Vícha, Senior Manager, Allianz (bronze), Ing. Martin Žáček, CEO of Uniqa pojišťovna (4th place) and Ing. Zdeněk Prchlík, Business Director, AIG Europe Limited (5th place)

Insurer of the Year 2015 The contest was founded by the Association of Czech Insurance Brokers (AČPM) and co-organized by the Czech Insurance Association (ČAP) and the specialized information server oPojištění.cz.

The 16th year of this oldest professional contest in insurance culminated with a gala evening held in the Congress Centre of the Czech National Bank in Prague on May 10, 2016, under the auspices of the then ČNB Governor Miroslav Singer.

The insurance brokers – as experts who work with insurers on a daily basis – assessed the insurance companies´ performance for 2015 in the following categories: insurance of industry, car insurance, civil insurance, specialized insurance and life insurance. Out of these five categories, Česká podnikatelská pojišťovna won three, Kooperativa pojišťovna reached for the first place in life insurance, while ERV Evropská pojišťovna has broken the record with the tenth uninterrupted victory in the specialized insurance category.

Over 250 VIP guests gathered in the historical ČNB building to ap-

From left: Ing. Milan Král, Broker Business Manager, Allianz, Mgr. Dominik Štros, CEO, Colonnade, Ing. Jitka Hradilová, Director, Satum Czech, and Ing. Ivan Špirakus, AČPM Vice Chairman

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CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS III/2016

plaud the award-giving ceremony for 2015, opened with a speech by the ČNB Vice Governor Prof. Vladimír Tomšík.

As in previous years, the brokers also voted for “Personality of the Insurance Market” – a title awarded for an outstanding contribution to the development of insurance in the Czech Republic. This time the lot fell upon JUDr. Ing. Jakub Hradec, the long-time Executive Director of the Czech Insurers´ Bureau.

Within the framework of the contest, the insurers also judged the overall performance of insurance brokers. Thus, RESPECT a.s., AČPM member, reconfirmed their last year´s victory with the Insurance Broker of the Year 2015 award.

The gala evening was preceded by Brokers´ Afternoon, a businesssocial networking event of insurance brokers and their counterpartners from insurance houses.

The event also served as an occasion to support the Modrý klíč project for handicapped children.

From left: JUDr. Ing. Jakub Hradec, ČKP Executive Director, Jiřina Nepalová, AČPM Chair, Ing. Lucie Urválková, CFO, Uniqa, and Roger Gascoigne, Director, Towers Watson

gala evening

Happy winners of the Insurer of the Year 2015 contest

Team of AIG Europe Limited (from left): Ing. Zdeněk Tuček, Head of Claims, Ing. Zdeněk Prchlík, Business Director, and Adam Škaloud, Marketing Manager

From left: Prof. Vladimír Tomšík, ČNB Vice Governor, with Ing. Zdeňka Indruchová, AČPM Executive Director and Ing. Ivan Špirakus, AČPM Vice Chairman

From left: Dr. Marta Gellová, EFPA President, Benke Aikell, your Publisher, and Eva Anderová, Honorary Consul of Zambia and Business Consultant to Czech & Slovak Leaders

From left: Ing. Martin Diviš in his ČAP President role, JUDr. František Stach, doyen of the insurance broking profession, former AČPM Chairman and 2009 Personality of the Insurance Market, Ing. Zdeněk Reibl, CEO of Respect a.s., winner of the Insurance Broker of the Year 2015 award, with Ladislav Malůšek, representative of KPMG ČR, general partner of the contest.

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS III/2016

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gala evening

Marcela Kotyrová, ČAP Head of Education and Communication, surrounded by Personalities of the Insurance Market, from left: Prof. Jaroslav Daňhel, Ing. Václav Křivohlávek and JUDr. František Stach

From left: Mgr. Zdeněk Kutina, former Executive Director of AČPM with Ing. Zdeněk Reibl, CEO, Respect a.s

JUDr. Jana Čechová and Dr. Vladimír Přikryl, both legal experts of the Ministry of Finance, with Ing. Jan Matoušek, ČAP Executive Director

From left: Ing. Martin Diviš, CEO, Kooperativa with Ing. Martin Žáček, CEO, Uniqa pojišťovna

Prof. Vladimír Tomšík, ČNB Vice Governor, opens the ceremony

JUDr. Ing. Jakub Hradec receiving the „2015 Personality of the Insurance Market“ award from Prof. Vladimír Tomšík, ČNB Vice Governor. On-looking Jiřina Nepalová, AČPM Chairwoman, and Ing. Zdeněk Voharčík, former AČPM Chairman and 2014 Personality of the Insurance Market

Civil Insurance category: Jiřina Nepalová, AČPM Chairwoman, presenting the award to Uniqa pojišťovna represented by Ing. Stanislav Svoboda, Head of Brokers Services

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I nterview

When You don't Get Any Better You Stop Being Good C hairman

of the

B oard

of

A n interview with I ng . Z deněk R eibl , MBA, D irectors and G eneral D irector of RESPECT, a.s.

The largest Czech-Slovak insurance broker for companies and entrepreneurs. 23 years on the market. 54,000 insured events resolved annually. Nearly CZK 7 billion in mediated insurance per year – this is RESPECT, a.s., established 23 years ago based on the model insurance brokers who were usually part of the team of every business in the world. A few foreign insurance brokers were operating in the former Czechoslovakia and later Czech Republic, but there was practically no Czech brokerage company. That led to the decision taken by Ing. Zdeněk Reibl, MBA and his partner Ing. Tomáš Urban to establish the Czech insurance company RESPECT, a.s. that would adapt to meet local needs while following western trends, in particular in its approach towards the client. And it succeeded.

You won the Broker of the Year award in both 2014 and 2015 – 1st place. Congratulations on your success. What is the recipe for being a successful insurance broker in the Czech Republic?

It flatters us to have been awarded the first prize in the category Broker of the Year two years in a row in such a prestigious and generally recognised industry competition. We very much appreciate it, but we know that even greater and harder work awaits us, and that we have to keep working on ourselves. Dalai Lama once said that pessimism leads to failure and I believe that to be a broad truth.

Everything starts with optimism and hard work, the rest inevitably falls into place. The jury comprised of experts from various insurance companies assessed for example the quality of supplied materials to insurance companies, the level of communication between us and the client and between us and the insurance company, corporate culture and many other aspects, on which we place great emphasis in RESPECT. This also relates to high demands we put on our colleagues working in the company.

However, the biggest rewards for me personally are satisfied clients who feel they are in ‘good hands’ thanks to our service and products, and of course our colleagues who enjoy working in RESPECT and are proud to be a part of the team and the RESPECT Group brand in the Czech Republic and Slovakia.

How were the early days of doing business – insurance brokerage, in the former Czechoslovakia?

We were full of vigor, ideals and a desire to prove that if it works abroad, it simply must work at home.

We drew inspiration from the London brokerage firm Minet. In 1993, we began in an apartment with just one car, a landline and registered capital of just a few Crowns. Our sole communication tool was Yellow Pages, we were our own marketing and we had a great desire to change the market and the way businesses think. Of course, we ran into barriers such as "insurance brokerage service is pointless, because clients could obtain the same services

RESPECT, a.s.

Insurance broker for commercial and industrial risks Company motto: "We accept personal responsibility for insurance quality"

• 1993 company established • 450 employees • 41 branches in the CR and SR • 54,000 insured events resolved annually • 28 days for settling an insured event (average) • 7 bilion CZK /roughly/

annual volume of mediated premiums

directly through the insurance company, so why should they need a broker?" However, the mood in the company quickly changed, people began exploiting opportunities and doing business in any segment with any goods – this was associated with inherent risks that nobody knew too much about and that needed to be resolved in time, to be insured or at least partially managed. It became important to be informed and have the flexibility to always be there by the client's side; this was a key breakthrough and the added value of an insurance broker. When you are dealing with an issue, an insured event, which disrupts you and threatens continuity of your business, you want to resolve it immediately and not wait till ‘some’ institution opens its doors for business so you can go in and start arguing. Back then we sensed that flexibility and time would be decisive.

What is RESPECT Group like today?

Besides having earned the Broker of the Year award for 2015, today we also rank among the TOP 5 insurance brokers for B2B in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. We have an enormous yet compact team of brokers who remain on a constant learning curve in terms of the insurance market and provide flexible services to clients’ businesses. They expect the unexpected, and this is especially important for setting up insurance programmes which are like a hand-made product. They are never the same because every business segment is different and therefore requires a custom-designed insurance programme. We were ahead of the times in many ways in relation to our motto and consequent changes introduced by the new Civil Code. Since our very start, we have been advocating acceptance of personal responsibility for the work we do in accordance with our motto: "We accept personal responsibility for insurance quality".

The work of an insurance broker is hard; one must be prudent and have attention to detail. Simply put, it has to be someone with a strong personality. We also know that a successful company changes before it has to, so we have‘rejuvenated’our logo this year and revamped our corporate identity, in part because we are entering the third decade of the company's life, and because it is necessary to constantly improve and develop ourselves. Gradual consolidation of individual companies and branches of RESPECT into the holding group and under the RESPECT Group brand brings even greater flexibility and possibilities for our clients regardless of where their companies are located.

In 23 years of work on the insurance market, you have been able to build a strong premium brand. What products are businesses most interested in?

Naturally, the greatest interest remains in products without which no business could function - insurance covering assets, fleets and last but not the least, personal liability insurance. Beside this, however, in light of the often very specific lines of business, specialised products are also coming on strongly, such as credit insurance and D&O. In 2015, we saw a rising demand from clients in covering cyber risks; nowadays it's not enough to only have a password. Cyber risks threaten company data in computers and mobile phones alike, and are just as real as e.g. damage to property or health. And with the rising digitalised age, risks will only increase. We could go on and on – everything can be insured and risks appear in all areas of any business. We always search for simply the best solution for our clients based on their true needs. Our undeniable advantage is also the fact that we do not need to limit ourselves only to the possibilities of the local market, but thanks to our long business relationships, we have forged partnerships abroad as well, where in certain areas, the offer is somewhat more diverse than it is here right now.

What makes you different from the other insurance brokers?

Definitely the fact that we are a Czech family business with a tradition, which however does not lose its drive abroad. We are the only corporate broker representing the Czech and Slovak Republics in the worldwide broker network UNiBA, and we are capable of acquiring insurance through locally established partners around the world. Within our company, we have also established the RESPECT ACADEMY, a unique education system for our clients, with whom we share the latest information and news from the world of insurance and insurance products. We also discuss with them examples of solutions to insured events based on practice, thus enabling them to share experience among themselves.

Where do you see RESPECT in 10 years?

Thanks to our long-term planning, vision and strategies, I believe that we will remain one of the top insurance brokers, and a sought-after and traditional partner to our clients. I always say with slight exaggeration that RESPECT was here, is here and will be here for another 100 years, and this is one of my secret wishes. To achieve this, we will need to be continuously fortunate with our employees, good partners in terms of insurance companies, as well as with high-quality competition as thanks to them, we are always trying to move ahead and come up with innovative ideas.

By CL české znění naleznete v elektronické verzi magazínu na www.czechleaders.com

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS III/2016

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SAP F orum

SAP Forum Prague 2016

Czech Republic Ready for the Digital Transformation

Discussion on digital transformation – Roman Knap, Managing Director, SAP ČR, Stefan Höchbauer, President, SAP Middle & Eastern Europe, and Klaus Sickinger, Managing Director, SAP Austria

SAP FORUM 2016 – Rouven Morato, Head of Enterprise Analytics, SAP, demonstrating Digital Boardroom SAP FORUM 2016 – Petr Dvořák, Managing Director, Česká televize talking about the future of the television

SAP FORUM 2016 – Miraclis bar

On June 1st the Prague conference hall Forum Karlín hosted another forum, SAP Forum Prague. Six hundred visitors spent their afternoon and evening in the world of digital transformation with the main focus on finance, media and production.

The conference was opened with a discussion about digital transformation and by comparing the situation in the Czech Republic, Germany and Austria. Stefan Höchbauer, President SAP Middle & Eastern Europe, and Klaus Sickinger, Managing Director SAP Austria, shared their experience from the neighboring markets with Roman Knap, Managing Director SAP Czech Republic.

“We’re fully absorbed by the digital transformation when successful companies have to rely on modern information technologies and they have to use them to a radical change of an established business model,” said Roman Knap. “This is a revolution that can transform the market leaders into small players and bring success to the small ones vice versa. No one had known Airbnb or Uber before. If the company wants to succeed it has to integrate information technologies in the business and use it for its development, this is the only way how Czech companies can catch the train of digital transformation.”

Rouven Morato, Head of Enterprise Analytics SAP, confirmed Roman’s words and demonstrated the future of successful companies on Digital Boardroom. Other speakers followed on the topic of digitization in media, finance and production.

Chris Shaw, Director, Sales & Marketing IT for EMEA & ASIA Intel, talked about trends in the Internet of Things where SAP and Intel share the same vision, and seeing a huge potential in Industry 4.0 for the Czech market.

For the first time the SAP Quality Awards ceremony for the CEE region was part of the SAP Forum. Most of the awarded customers from the region came to collect their prizes and enjoy the moments on the stage together with Stefan Höchbauer and Jiří Synáček, Quality Director SAP CEE. The gold-medal winners in the categories Fast Delivery, Business Transformation and Innovative Project are from Hungary and Poland, silver and bronze medals go to Albania, the Czech Republic, Croatia, Montenegro, Poland and Slovenia. The three companies that received the Gold Award – KNYKK (Hungary) in Fast Delivery Category, Hungarian Public Road Nonprofit PLC in Business Transformation category and PKP Poland in Innovative Project category –- automatically qualify for SAP Quality Awards EMEA/MEE finals where they will compete with the absolute winners of more than 200 expected nominations from the EMEA/MEE territory.

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SAP F orum “During this year’s SAP Forum, we took all of our guests through the digital transformation in several areas of business. We demonstrated the success achieved through the digitization on the concrete cases and projects of the companies from the whole Central Eastern Europe region. The Czech Republic was represented by KS Kolbenschmidt with its project and solution implemented by Mibcon among the medalists. It was a pleasure to have a chance to congratulate most of the winners in person here in Prague. I believe they’ll all build on successes achieved by implementing SAP solutions,” Knap said.

SAP’s partners also had a chance to demonstrate their projects implementing SAP solutions during the DEMO JAM, out of five competing teams KCT Data was chosen by the attendees through the event application as the winner. The event was crowned by a concert of Olympic, a legendary Czech rock band that made the crowd dance to their famous songs.

Simply said: SAP Forum Prague run LIVE! SAP FORUM 2016 – Networking

SAP FORUM 2016 – Libor Bouček introducing the partners

SAP FORUM 2016 – registration

SAP FORUM 2016 – SAP Quality Awards ceremony, winners of Fast Delivery category: From left: Jiří Synáček, SAP CEE Quality Director, AQM, Jan Filip, Account Manager, Mibcon, Czech Republic – representative of implementer for the Kolbenschmidt project, Srdjan Lukic, SAP West Balkans, Account Executive for Ministry of Montenegro, Róbert Friebert, CFO, KNYKK Hungary, Tamás Fónai, ERP Business Unit Director, Fornax SI, Hungary – implementer for the KNYKK project, and Stefan Höchbauer, President, SAP Middle&Eastern Europe

SAP FORUM 2016 – Olympic, Petr Janda

SAP FORUM 2016 – SAP Quality Awards ceremony SAP Forum 2016 – Pavel Kysilka,Managing Director, Česká spořitelna, on 6D world

SAP FORUM 2016 DEMO JAM – winners announcement

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I nterview

Exclusive Interview on Digital Transformation and Its Impact on Businesses and Society Having the opportunity to interview Mr. Stefan Höchbauer gave me not only a positive insight into the situation on digital transformation in the Czech Republic and its neighboring markets in Austria and Germany, but also an impulse to look at the technology from another perspective. More than ever, new technologies are becoming drivers of the business model change. The revolutionary examples of Airbnb and Uber show us how small players can grow into global ones and on the other hand, how the global ones might become smaller ones or disappear completely. In order to succeed, the IT needs to become integral part of the business to profit from the successful and long-term sustainable development.

Stefan Höchbauer, Regional President, SAP, Middle and Eastern Europe

Inspiration from SAP – Design Thinking

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A Design Methodology Basically, Design Thinking is a design methodology, which differs from traditional design approaches in specific ways. For example, it is characterised as more creative and user-centered than many traditional design approaches.

Thinking, a large part of the problem-solving activity is comprised of defining and shaping the problem.

Much like any other problem solving process, Design Thinking consists of a number of stages or phases, which differ slightly between various Design Thinking proponents.

A Problem-Solving Approach or Process Design Thinking can be regarded as a problemsolving method or a process for the resolution of problems. As a solution-based approach to solving problems, Design Thinking is particularly useful for addressing the so-called “wicked” problems. Wicked means that they are ill-defined or tricky. For ill-defined problems, both the problem and the solution are unknown at the outset of the problem-solving process. Even when the general direction of the problem may be clear, considerable time and effort is spent on clarifying the requirements. Thus, in Design

An Approach to Encourage Creativity Unlike analytical thinking, which is associated with the “breaking down” of ideas, Design Thinking is a creative process based on the “building up” of ideas.

While analytical approaches focus on narrowing the design choices, Design Thinking focuses on going broad, at least during the early stages of the process.

In Design Thinking, designers do not make any early judgments about the quality of ideas. As a result, this minimises the fear of failure and maximises input and participation in the ideation (brainstorming) and prototype phases. “Outside the box thinking”, also called

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS III/2016

“wild ideas”, is encouraged in the earlier process stages, since this style of thinking is believed to lead to creative solutions that would not have emerged otherwise.

A User-Centered Approach That Brings Design into the Business World Design Thinking is seen as a way to apply design methodologies to any of life situations. It is often used to explore and define business problems and to define products and services. In other words, Design Thinking brings the design approach into the business world. As a style of thinking, it combines empathy for the context of a problem, creativity in the generation of insights and solutions, and rationality and feedback to analyze and fit solutions to the context – All this helps derive a solution that meets user needs and at the same time generates revenue, that is, drives business success.

I nterview Mr. Höchbauer, what are the main business model changes and disruption trends that SAP helps its customers to address?

The topic of digital transformation or business transformation as discussed nowadays is driven by three factors. The first one is represented by surprising competitors that have emerged and now are challenging many established players in traditional industries. Several years ago, it would seem odd to consider that BMW or VW would face competition from Google and its autonomous driving, as Google now has all the data relevant and needed. Similar disruptions are happening elsewhere: one of the biggest taxi providers Uber does not own cars, likewise Airbnb achieved its success without owning one single hotel bed. More and more, the traditional companies in traditional industries need to start thinking about new ways how to engage with customers.

The second factor is linked to the Internet of Things – taking into consideration all devices that are connected to the internet and that will be connected to the internet. According to studies, by 2020 there will be about 50 billion devices connected to the internet.

We tend to think mainly about mobile phones, but there are many other devices and sensors connected, and generating enormous overall volume of data. Just imagine immense opportunity for businesses arising from combining data from devices together with corporate data, which create the backbone of the enterprise, and then enriched with the data from the social media. Now the next step comes and that is what to do with the data and how to combine them with analytics. We present to our customers the example of Digital Boardroom as the place where all information about different parts of the enterprise is available and so it enables not only access to data in real time but also decision making according to complex evaluation of the current status of an organisation as well as enhancing communication across various departments. Besides effective decision making, this approach also enables many new opportunities how to interact with customers.

The third dimension of disruption trends comes with next generation, the so-called millennials or also internet generation. They have totally different ideas about how to consume goods and services. I always present the example of my 14 year old son. He likes cars, but he has already made up his mind that he does not want to own a car in the future. He wants to have a flexibility and use it according to his needs, so he thinks about sharing cars with friends and changing models as he likes. And now this new approach to consumption is starting to be reflected in the whole automotive industry.

Having heard all this, now I understand that your statement: “In order to win in the new economy, you must digitize or become irrelevant”, should not be considered an overstatement.

To illustrate all of the changes mentioned above on one specific example, I can give you an insight from my recent discussion with a car rental company, an industry that few would consider particularly innovative. Generally, we would think the business is about maximum possible utilisation of the cars, being at the right place at the right time. However, facing the challenges, there is a need to come up with new types of shared and mobile services for their customers. Po-

tentially, SAP as a corporate customer, will not have one company car per employee but rather service level providing a car at disposal according to needs.

So from owning or renting a car, we are turning to consuming either miles or hours or any other flexible arrangement. Individual SAP employee might thus profit from various cars for different occasions.

Smaller car easy to park when driving in a city, a family car when going to the seaside for summer vacations or an off-road when going for a skiing weekend.

Or perhaps would he or she like to try a convertible throughout summer? Expanding on this mobile cart, let me describe a few services that could be interesting from the user’s point of view. Just by entering the car and connecting to the GPS, there would be a welcome and the navigation system would be automatically selecting the optimal journey to the next meeting. If I go to the petrol station and I refuel, the bill would be automatically added to the right expense company account. No more difficult and manual handling of receipts and bills into a system.

By the way, this is already possible thanks to SAP technology called Concur.

So this was one example that for changing business models you need flexible and reliable, rock solid IT infrastructure with data, applications and solutions and building on these, you come up with new services and ways to engage with your customer to serve their needs better.

Digitization is truly affecting each and every industry and each and every geography. The adoption might be different if you compare America and Western Europe to Russia and CIS but it is omnipresent. Sometimes, it comes under headline of business transformation but the ultimate aim as to how best adapt for future market is always the same.

For a long time, SAP has been associated primarily with large corporations. In reality, 80% of your customers are SMEs. In Germany, the SMEs have been traditionally considered backbone of economy, but in the Czech Republic, SMEs have been in an inferior position with regards to access to funding and innovation, when compared to multinationals. Has the situation changed?

In SAP we have the same customer base in each country where we operate. What might differ, is the definition of the SME as such, with regards to the revenue or number of employees. But the principle how we engage with SMEs, what products and solutions we offer and how we engage with them, stays the same. As you pointed out, SMEs are also a backbone of business for us. Look at our product and portfolio and you find a range scaling from small to large enterprises. In some areas the offer is the same, in some areas there are special products developed in cooperation with our partners, based on our technology and ready to solve specific solutions in particular segments.

Three particular segments – finance, media and production - have been discussed at SAP Forum held in Prague in June. Finance and production are often discussed, but what was the reason to include media?

As I mentioned, digital and business transformation is relevant for each and every industry. Some of the industries might be more adaptive than others. With

media and in particular social media, the question of making use of data available becomes imminent which brings us back to the solutions we offer. This was confirmed in the keynote speech of Mr. Petr Dvořák, CEO of Czech Television, discussing new trends in TV time consumption and the effect on the transforming world of media as such.

SAP is active in both, public sector and private sector. How is the public sector, comparing to the private one, interested in digital transformation? Are there any differences, can you give an example?

It is interesting to note that with regards to the digital transformation, the often mentioned public-private sector divide is not relevant. There might be some slight concerns with regards to cloud solutions, but overall, the solutions and the responses are the same.

Let us take the example of growing pressure from citizens with regards to the need of more transparency and budget spending or the pressure to be more flexible in handling administrative agenda - filing on the documents and paperwork. The topic of efficient data use and data sharing can be extended to health care where I see a great advantage and potential. The potential of connectivity was demonstrated in one study done by the Heidelberg University Hospital which carried out digitizing cervical cancer screening in Kenya, in a process that helped to prevent data loss and duplication. And one last positive remark regarding adoption and readiness, I am pleased to see that the level of discussion is almost comparable between Germany, Austria and the Czech Republic.

So far, we have talked about transforming businesses and technologies. Now, let us talk about people. What is your view and approach to leadership at SAP in times of transformation?

In SAP, we make sure we have the people at the right positions. We embrace the notion of all inclusive diversity, in terms of gender, age, nationalities and last but not least even different physical abilities. I am so proud not only about my diverse team and particularly about the high number of talented women managers in executive positions throughout the region.

We walk the talk on disruption and so we introduced the methodology called design thinking which is a smart way of brainstorming and engaging with our customers. But we also use it internally.

We talk about potential disruptive ideas, topics, trends and influences and how to link them to the opportunities our technology enables. Therefore, the employees need to be open to learning and to adapt fast. We also experienced our transformation from turning from an enterprise resource planning system company into a cloud company based on rock solid technology SAP HANA. This way, we are able to address much bigger market potential, in terms of different industries, lines of business, different buying centers etc. Our experts are trained to be always the most relevant source for their customers as potential consultants on future disruptive trends in a particular industry or business. We invest in training, education, coaching and we are aware that this is an on-going and never ending process.

By Linda Štucbartová

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conference

CACIO CONFRENCE: "B est T echn with support of gold

CACIO

partners

HP E nterprise , ICZ, D eloitte

From left: Miroslav Hübner, Chairman of the Board, CACIO and Josef Švenda, CEO, Oracle

Czech Association of Chief Information Officers, Cacio, organizes social and technical events to support CIOs & IT managers and promotes best technology & managerial practices.

Jan Vorlíček, Project Manager, HSI

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CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS III/2016

Jiří Čtyroký, Head of Section of Spatial Information, Institute of Planning and Development, Prague 3

Karel Štencel, Vice Chairman and Director of Surveying and Cadastre Department, The Office for Surveying, Mapping and Cadastre

conference

ology I nvestement "

From left: Miroslav Hübner, Chairman of the Board, CACIO and Michal Kubáň, Ministry of Interior of the Czech Republic

Michal Kubáň, Ministry of Interior of the Czech Republic

Petr Chvátal, Managing Director, Informační služby

Lukáš Erben, Partner, KPC Group

From left: Petr Seidl, CEO, ARCDATA and Miroslav Hübner, Chairman of the Board, CACIO

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS III/2016

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conference

Some of the guests

Audience Josef Švenda, CEO, Oracle

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Tomáš Hrabík, Senior Business Consultant, ICZ

business events

CZECH BUSINESS CLUB

Czech Business Club organized a discussion with Mr. Jiří Kunert, CEO of UniCredit Bank and Banker of the Year 2015. Participants of the debate enjoyed a lively and open discussion.

From left: Jiří Kunert, CEO, UniCredit Bank and Victor Lekhman, CEO, Lekvi group

From left: Michael Cukier, Founder, Palbric Art Foundation and Pavel Kneppo, CEO, PosAm

From left: Sanjiv Suri, CEO, President,Zátiší group, Jiří Krejča, President, Canadian Chamber of Commerce in the Czech Republic, and Jiří Kunert, CEO, UniCredit Bank

From left: Jiří Adámek, CEO, Medicon, a.s. and Jiří Kunert, CEO, UniCredit Bank

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J iří R usnok , G overnor , C zech N ational B ank

Success hinges on our ability to address the market Mr. Jiří Rusnok (55) was appointed the new Governor of the Czech National Bank for a term of six years starting on 1 July 2016.

“I am greatly honoured to be able to stand at the helm of this unique and internationally acclaimed institution. My colleagues and I will do all we can to ensure that all the tasks conferred on us by law, particularly in the areas of price and financial stability and financial market supervision, continue to be performed with the utmost expertise and care and to the benefit of the Czech economy,” said Mr. Rusnok.

Mr. Rusnok serves as the fourth governor of the CNB since its establishment in 1993. His predecessors were Josef Tošovský, Zdeněk Tůma and, most recently, Miroslav Singer, whose current mandate expired in June 2016 and could not be extended.

Mr. Rusnok has been a member of the Bank Board, the supreme governing body of the CNB, since March 2014. He decided to step down prematurely due to the requirements arising from European law, which stipulates that a governor of a national central bank must be appointed for a term of office of at least five years. Mr. Rusnok is an experienced Czech politician and economist.

In the 1990s, he worked as director of a department of the Czech-Moravian Confederation of Trade Unions. His political positions included Minister of Finance from 2001 until 2002 and Minister of Industry and Trade from 2002 until 2003.

Among his professional appointments were President of the Association of Pension Funds in 2005–2012 and President of the Audit Public Oversight Council. In 2010–2013, he was a member of the government’s National Economic Council (NERV). From July 2013 until January 2014, he served as Prime Minister of the caretaker government.

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Mr. Rusnok, your appointment has raised high expectations both among supporters of adoption of the single currency and among those who disagree with the policy of currency intervention and weakening the Czech crown in order to support Czech export trade. What is your vision with regard to the activities of the Czech National Bank? And to what extent has this vision been influenced by the recent Brexit referendum vote in the United Kingdom?

My role as Governor of the Czech National Bank does not translate into being a supporter of any particular interest group either in society as a whole or in the economy. My task is to govern the central bank together with the other members of the Bank Board in order to fulfil its role in accordance with the law, that is to maintain price stability, supervise the financial system and support its balanced development, and ensure smooth circulation of money and smooth payments.

Which tools we use to attain these goals always depends on the specific circumstances and conditions in the economy.

Given this context, Brexit is only one of the circumstances, or uncertainties if you wish, that our decision-making must take into consideration.

Your communication skills have often been mentioned as a big advantage in comparison to your predecessors. The fact that already during your second week in office you organised an informal breakfast for journalists, supports this contention. How are you going to use this strong skill? And what is your notion of leadership and what other leadership qualities do you consider important?

I do not like to judge myself.

I leave that to others. As you mentioned, communication is truly essential, even for the central bank.

Our success hinges on our ability to address the markets – in terms of both experts but also the wider

J iří R usnok , G overnor , C zech N ational B ank public – and to explain why we take certain steps. Only in this manner can we fulfil the mandate given to us by law.

Your experience is vast and diverse. It comprises not only high political functions, but also leading positions in professional associations. Despite the fact that the position of central bank governor is not political, many commentators consider your political experience to be your advantage. On the other hand, you seemed not to miss top politics, as you made remarks about the “unprecedented pressure” you faced when you were Prime Minister. Is there anything you miss about top politics?

I definitely see myself as being practically oriented, so expert and management roles are the ones that come most naturally. The position of governor is somewhere in between a pure expert position and politics.

I therefore hope that I will be able to successfully make use of my experience combined with my skills.

With regard to the decision not to adopt the single currency any time soon,

which central banks might serve as an inspiration and which ones might be useful for closer co-operation with regard to the EU’s banking union project?

Formally speaking, the Czech Republic is still obliged to adopt the single European currency. However, we have the possibility to decide when we will do so. The Czech National Bank is part of the European System of Central Banks of the EU28 countries.

We have very close ties with other central banks all over the world. The Czech National Bank belongs to the group of ten central banks that established and then successfully implemented inflation targeting. Our technical know-how in this area is highly valued and we are one of the top players in this area.

It seems that you are quite successful in protecting your private life. What are your hobbies and what is your approach to work-life balance?

I try to live a normal life. It gives me the necessary freedom and inner balance. I strictly separate my private life from my work. I relax in the great outdoors. I like gardening and sometimes even doing some sports.

About the Czech National Bank The CNB is the central bank of the Czech Republic, the supervisor of the Czech financial market and the Czech resolution authority. It is established under the Constitution of the Czech Republic and carries out its activities in compliance with Act No. 6/1993 Coll., on the Czech National Bank, as amended, and other regulations. It is a legal entity under public law having its registered address in Prague. It has seven regional offices in Prague, Ústí nad Labem, Plzeň, České Budějovice, Hradec Králové, Brno and Ostrava. It manages its assets, including international reserves, with due diligence. Interventions in its activities are only permissible on the basis of law. The CNB is a part of the European System of Central Banks and contributes to the fulfilment of its objectives and tasks. It is also a part of the European System of Financial Supervision and cooperates with the European Systemic Risk Board and with European Supervisory Authorities.

As a supporter of diversity, I cannot refrain from asking why there are no women represented in the current Bank Board. Do you see it as an issue?

Right now, there are no women represented, but this has been the case for most of the modern history of the Bank. We will see next time, during the next round of rotation. Then the situation might change. Last but not least, the Bank Board members are nominated by the President of the Czech Republic. It does not fall within my competence.

What are your final words for Czech and Slovak Leaders readers?

I send my regards to the readers, I wish them all the best and I assure them that they do not have to be concerned about their savings and about the stability of the Czech currency.

By Linda Štucbartová české znění naleznete v elektronické verzi magazínu na www.czechleaders.com

The supreme governing body of the CNB is the Bank Board, consisting of the CNB Governor, two Vice-Governors and four other Bank Board members. All Bank Board members are appointed by the President of the Czech Republic for a maximum of two six-year terms.

Current members of the CNB Bank Board CNB Governor: Jiří Rusnok CNB Vice-Governor: Mojmír Hampl CNB Vice-Governor: Vladimír Tomšík CNB Board Member: Vojtěch Benda CNB Board Member: Lubomír Lízal CNB Board Member: Tomáš Nidetzký CNB Board Member: Pavel Řežábek

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I nterview

Building Act: A Long and Winding Road A key part of the proposed legislation is represented by shortening of the whole process through the so-called coordinated procedure, which is to combine planning and building permit procedures, including the process of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). The result should be the release of a unique coordinated permit, equally for an individual building as well as a group of buildings. For selected special projects – construction of roads a road administrative authority is to be competent for the coordinated procedure (local authority of a municipality with extended powers, a Regional Authority or the Ministry of Transportation), in the case of rail track construction a rail administrative authority, for energy projects the Ministry of Industry and Trade, and for waterworks the appropriate water authority. Further, among others, more deadlines for specific procedures are to be shortened.

The Czech Act No. 183/2006 Coll., on Town and Country Planning and Building Code, commonly known as the Building Act, constitutes a key legal regulation for preparation and construction of public and private investment projects. Its recent version in force is generally accused to produce very complicated planning permission and building permit procedures with insecure results. It is no exception that some procedures for larger projects last even more than five years, while those of large transport and energy infrastructure projects may last even about twelve to fifteen years. Such state of things undoubtedly ranks the Czech Republic among European countries with the slowest pace in public and private investment, which undermines Czech aspirations to converge to the level of more developed EU countries. This fact has brought about efforts to prepare such an amendment to the Building Act that would effectuate a substantial simplification and acceleration in permitting and accomplishing building projects.

The aforementioned delicate task was undergone by the Ministry of Regional Development (Ministerstvo pro místní rozvoj) that was entitled so by its legal powers and competencies. Its work at the text began in early 2014.

The proposed amendment forms certainly a complex and integral legal regulation, which can be proved by the fact that it provokes also an amendment of further 34 related acts.

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The amended Building Act should also bring about a simplification of the permit process for small private projects like family houses, swimming pools or glasshouses.

On the other hand, it is necessary to mention that there are also factors that may act against potential beneficial effects of the proposed legislature.

One of them is the recently introduced EIA legislature allowing the so called affected public to appeal against the results of the permit process in a broader extent and in more stages. Another complicating element is the legislature dealing with industrial emissions (Act No. 76/2002 Coll., as amended) which may concern especially projects in manufacturing and waste incineration plants. Only practice might show to what extent these stipulations could offset the shortening and simplifying effect of the new building legislature.

The initial version of the amendment was submitted for intra-governmental discussion in June 2015. The discussion harvested incredible 2,142 comments, of which 1,601 material ones. It was very often objected that the proposed amendment stayed behind initial intentions and the improvement in the permit process

was insufficient. Differences concerned often conflicting ideas on proposed powers of administration bodies, e.g. the coordinated procedure for waterworks as parts of larger projects, or the proposed annulment of the authorization for specific building rules for the City of Prague, as well as the potential exclusion of the right of the affected public to appeal against the project within the EIA procedure, but without previous participation in the building permit procedure. Comments also frequently emerged that the amendment does not sufficiently support strategic projects of top importance like motorways, railway lines or energy networks.

After a truly painstaking work of the Ministry of Regional Development with assessing the comments and complying with some of them, the adjusted text of the amendment proceeded to a discussion at first in selected working committees of the Government, and then to that in the Government Legislative Council in June 2016. Thereafter, the documentation of the amendment of the Building Act is to undergo a regular discussion in the Government. Insiders’ estimates say that the amendment will be put on the Government’s table at the end of this August or at the beginning of September. At the time this article is published the gentle reader will already know whether the amendment of the Building Act reached the meeting of the Government on time, and if so, with which result. If it is positive, the bill will then proceed to the Parliament.

It sometimes happens that such useful and more or less positive proposals of legal regulations wage a genuine long and winding road before their materialization. And it is not certain that their final version will be fully consistent with initial intentions. Hopefully this will not be the case, and we will live to see a better regulation of public and private construction projects at least at the beginning of 2018. manuel Šíp, Partner E Allied Progress Consultants Association české znění naleznete v elektronické verzi magazínu na www.czechleaders.com

charity event

From left: H.E. Livia Klausová, Chairwoman of the Board, Endowment Fund of Livia and Václav Klaus, and Ambassador of the Czech Republic to Slovakia and Jitka Pecičová, SAGA TRADE

E ndowment F und

of L ivia and met sponsors and volunteers

V áclav K laus

On May 25th 2016, the Endowment fund of Livia and Václav Klaus invited sponsors and volunteers to a meeting in the Great Hall of the New Town Hall in Prague. The founders of the Fund, Mr. a Mrs. Klaus, took the opportunity to thank all the donors and volunteers for their support.

Tomáš Jelínek, Branch Director, ČSOB and Eva Horucková, CRS Manager, ČSOB

Václav Klaus, former President of the ČR and co-founder of the Endowment Fund of Livia and Václav Klaus

Laďa Kerndl, Singer

From left: Jiřina Donátová from Předboj, winner of the project Seniors Communicate, Livia Klausová, Chairwoman of the Board, Endowment Fund of Livia and Václav Klaus, and Václav Klaus, former President of the CR and co-founder of the Endowment Fund of Livia and Václav Klaus

From left: Kamila Kryštofová, Director, Endowment Fund of Livia and Václav Klaus, and Blanka Šrámková, Manager, Endowment Fund Veolia

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I nterview Foto: Nguyen Phuong Thao

Miroslav Kalousek is one of the most experienced Czech politicians. Since 1990, he has been engaged in the civil service sector.

He began as an expert and advisor, and since 1998 he has served in the Parliament.

Prior to co-establishing political party TOP 09, he was the Chairman of Christian and Democratic Union - Czechoslovak People's Party. When Miroslav Kalousek was the Minister of Finance, he was twice named by the Emerging Markets journal the Minister of Finance of the Year 2008 and 2011 for the sphere of developing European economies.

Since 2013, the party TOP 09 has been a part of the opposition. He has the reputation for being a very smart and at the same time very tough conversational partner. Personally, I very much enjoyed our interview and he smiled at me from time to time. And being a gentleman, he stood behind me during our picture being taken together, so the height difference would not be too disturbing.

Although our interview took place on a sunny summer day, there were some serious topics mentioned that might serve as a warning about possible storm coming and hitting the Czech society.

Mr. Kalousek, after so many years in politics, are you still able to look at politics from an eagle-eye perspective?

Quite the contrary, the older I get and the more experience I have, the bigger chance there is for a broader perspective. On the other hand, it is hard to expect that any active politician pursuing a certain ideology path would be totally objective. But the longer I am in politics, the more I understand the system and I am capable of distinguishing the important issues from the irrelevant ones.

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How would you introduce the Czech Republic in 2016 to someone who does not live here and so he or she is not immersed in the everyday political life; such as to an expat manager coming to work in our country?

The Czech Republic is a very happy and a rich country with a stabilised market economy.

Economically, we are doing well, but there are some structural risks that will surface sooner or later. The great dependence on the automotive industry might be the first one to mention. We are a democratic country, historically we used to be a satellite country of the former USSR

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS III/2016

and the influence of Russian propaganda has been extraordinarily high. The fifth column of Russian propaganda is present at the level of central public offices and institutions. We face the situation when the long time established system of liberal democracy and political parties is to a certain degree threatened by the attempt to raise the level of autocracy and apply the corporate management model.

According to the latest polls, Russian President Putin scores as more popular than German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

I nterview How do you perceive such result?

I am not surprised but it is very sad news. It reflects a certain intellectual slip in the Czech society that shows our relationships towards the European Union as well as towards Russia. It looks like we have two political representations and two Czech Republics and each of them wants to go the opposite direction. It does not come as a surprise that I am a supporter of the Czech Republic belonging to “the hardcore” of the European Union and fulfilling its membership duties within the NATO. Although it is necessary to include Russia in a dialogue and have the best relationship possible, I still consider Russia being the number one security threat with regards to the international and defence policy.

How come we find ourselves in such a state after almost 27 years since the Velvet Revolution?

Democracy is a system where you make mistakes. Everyone does and mistakes happen as well while you run a country. Our biggest mistake was taking freedom for granted for a long time. Freedom actually fell into our laps after the system fell apart and we did not have to fight for it. Free liberal democratic environment is not a given, we have to fight for it and also nurture it every day. We have managed to set up a standard system of democratic institutions establishing all democratic processes and mechanisms within a short time but we have forgotten to answer the question whether we will have enough democratic people. Unlike West Germany after the World War II, we have underestimated the “civic education”, as it used to be a derogatory subject during the communism. We have not put sufficient effort to make sure that a citizen is aware about the principles of liberal democracy, their own place in the system, own rights but also own responsibility to be able to distinguish early warning signals that might put liberal democracy in danger. In Germany, they have dedicated decades to answering a question about how come that such culturally developed country had turned into a brutal dictatorship.

But such process does not happen overnight.

It is a sequence, similar to the storm coming.

The rain does not start suddenly, clouds come first, followed by the wind and then lightning appears. A society that takes care about civic education is able to identify warning signals in time. However, the Czech Republic is still a country with an unpredictable past. We have spent little time discussing history, particularly finding an answer to the question: “How come we have lost our freedom?”. The answer corresponding to the Czech mentality goes: “It is not our fault, it was someone from outside who is to blame”. But this is not true, quite often we lost our freedom ourselves and I do not want to see repeating it.

What would you have become in case you had not entered politics?

I was not in a position to be able to choose.

I come from a little town and when I was 15, I received a report saying that it would be suitable for me to be raised by the working class and so I could only choose between two vocational schools – the one to become a fisherman and the other one having chemical specialisation, the latter offering the possibility of graduation. So after I became a worker myself, raised by the working class, I entered the University of Chemistry and Technology in Prague. In 1990, I got the offer to join the public sector which I declined at first. Had I not joined, I would have probably continued in the career in the chemical industry. However, my dream at the age of 14 was quite different and quite clear. I wanted to go to the agricultural school in Tábor and then Agricultural University and to breed cows. But I was not allowed to attend that kind of a school.

Now, I will ask you as a citizen…What is the central theme for the upcoming fall elections?

We will have two types of elections, regional elections and in some parts Senate elections.

Protection of freedom is definitely the strongest and central theme for the Senate elections. We are facing the situation when the government uses both executive and legislative measures to limit freedoms such as freedom of assembly or protection against search and seizures. During the last two years, numerous registers have been created gathering sensitive information about citizens. Such data must not be systematically used in any way, there is no capacity to do so.

However, there is a danger that this information might be misused. Such steps have been all written down to create “List of Oppression” and we want to ask voters to gather the majority in the Senate so the list cannot be enlarged; and on the other hand, it can be annulled overtime.

Now, this was an answer from a politician.

But how would you answer as a citizen?

I believe I would be an active citizen who does not agree with his rights and liberties being taken away and is willing to do something about it. The quality of democracy and freedom does not depend on the top political leaders, be it Svoboda, Kalousek or Babiš. It is decided by the 70-80% of population, who in reality does not care. The task of politicians is to make sure that the percentage of people who do not care is as low as possible. Having said that, I do not believe that it is only up to the politicians. The engaged intellectual elite has been present throughout the history, both engaged and active and even able to influence it. Now, if there are some elite groups, they are silent.

It seems you have anticipated my next question. As our interview is for the Czech and Slovak Leaders Magazine, let us discuss leaders in the Czech Republic and in Europe.

I will not give you any names, as I feel it is inappropriate, especially prior to the elections.

As I have already mentioned, I feel there is a lack of leaders, not only in the Czech Republic but also in Europe. Europe now faces a difficult situation, there is a migration crisis next to the financial crisis and we see various conflicting interests of single member states. I remember times when Europe had much stronger leadership, formed

by Kohl, Mitterrand and Thatcher. I have asked myself a question that is rather to be answered by sociologists as to whether the last true leaders were not those of the war generations having experienced borderline situations. These leaders were then replaced by administrators.

In good times, administrators are popular, since they are not controversial. In decisive moments, when difficult decisions are to be made and it is necessary to accept a responsibility that can be considered even suicidal, the true leadership is missing.

I have come across your statement at your website: “There is never enough smile, it is a crime not to smile once per day”. So, whom do you smile at and what gives you a reason to smile?

Well, I hope that I have smiled at you… I always make sure to smile at people who work at the reception office. I see how some colleagues enter like a “dead zone” and enter without a greeting. I do not understand this, I believe that even in times I do not feel like it, I should enter with a greeting and smile. Frowning is a part of the Czech mentality but we have many reasons to smile. Despite all the problems we are facing, let me return to the beginning of our conversation when I mentioned that the Czech Republic is a very happy and rich country.

And what are your final words for Czech and Slovak Leaders Magazine readers?

I keep repeating the same message; so my appeal goes like this: “Let us not be indifferent”.

I consider our own indifference as the biggest challenge for the Czech Republic. We can have different opinions but let us discuss them, let us put these forward. However, we cannot be indifferent, stop paying attention, be apathetic, keep saying that it does not matter. Because then comes the moment when something happens and it is too late since we have been indifferent for too long. Being an active citizen is not limited to casting a ballot once in four years.

An active citizen is continuously very attentive to the course of events and makes himself or herself heard when feeling his or her own rights are being limited.

By Linda Štucbartová č eské znění naleznete v elektronické verzi magazínu na www.czechleaders.com

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS III/2016

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Richard Stipl & Josef Zlamal - S culpture

and

D rawing

O pening ceremony in MIRO G allery P rague and after party at H otel L indner P rague C astle 12. 7. – 28. 8. 2016 From left: Mgr. Oksana Vašová, Patria voyage Prague, Miro Smolák, Director, MIRO Gallery during his opening speech, and Natali Ruden, Fashion Designer

From left: Benke Aikell, your Publisher, Tereza Urbánková, PR and Communication Expert and Head of Global Communications at Amec Wheeler plc and Contributor to Czech & Slovak Leaders Magazine, and Mr Nolan W. Stripling, Chairman CEC Government Relations Ltd.

From left: Richard Stipl, Artist, PhDr. Miroslav Ambrož, Art Historian and Curator, Mgr. Lucia Lettenmayerová, Art Collector, Lettenmayer & Partner, s.r.o., Hermann Lettenmayer, Art Collector, Lettenmayer & Partner, s.r.o., Mgr. Petros Alexandridis, Director, Royal Canonry of Premonstratensians at Strahov with his wife Hana, and Josef Zlamal, Artist

From left: Josef Zlamal, Artist, H. E. Peter Weiss, Ambassador of the Slovak Republic in the Czech Republic, and Richard Stipl, Artist

Alena Miro, Opera Singer and Martina Svárovská, Raiffeisen Bank

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From left: Blanka Zlamalová, Architect with her daughter Erika Zlamalová, Václav Havel Library and Member of Prague Writers Festival

From left: Mgr. Markéta Lukášová with her partner Ing. Lukáš Roubal and their daughter, Studio Zlamal, and Josef Zlamal, Artist

E xhibition

From left: PhDr. Miroslav Ambrož, Art Historian and Curator, Josef Zlamal, Artist, and Mgr. Lucia Lettenmayerová, Art Collector, Lettenmayer & Partner, s.r.o. during the launch of the Stipl-Zlamal art catalogue

Dominika Bazalová, Pianist

From left: Leoš Svárovský, Conductor, Martina Svárovská, Raiffeisen Bank, and Stanislav Vaněk, Director, Czech TV

From left: H. E. Peter Weiss, Ambassador of the Slovak Republic in the Czech Republic and JUDr. Rudolf Tomašovič, former President of the Chamber of the Senate of the Supreme Court in Prague From left: Peter Hirjak, Film Director and Ing. Pavel Marinič, Chairman of the Science Board, European Business School SE

From left: PhDr. Jozef Gáfrik, Journalist „Hospodářské noviny“ and Mgr. Karel Ulík, Journalist „Radio Hortus“

From left: Luděk Stipl, father of Roman Stipl, with his partner Zdenka Micová, Tolerance and Respect Association, and Blanka Zlamalová, Architect

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THE POSITIVE LEADER: Fuelling success and happiness in a world of disruptive change Jan Mühlfeit, Global Strategist, Executive Coach and Mentor, former Chairman of Microsoft Europe.

I n cooperation with C zech & S lovak L eaders

The importance of strong leadership has never been more apparent. As events in Europe unfold dramatically in the wake of the British public’s vote to exit the European Union, we find ourselves looking to our leaders –and potential leaders–to guide us through this period of uncertainty and change.

An inspirational leader can rouse confidence in times of ambiguity like these, and instil a sense of optimism for the future that might otherwise be missing. But with political leaders dropping like flies and other individuals clamouring to take their place, a number of key questions are brought to the fore. What makes for successful leadership under challenging circumstances? How can we identify a strong, visionary leader? And to what extent does great leadership inspire engagement and success in others over the long term?

These questions are becoming more significant than ever in a perpetually-changing world, and not just in politics. We’re all operating amidst a backdrop of supersonic developments in technology that are bringing dynamic innovations to every aspect of our lives and business. As corporations race to meet new demands and opportunities for growth, time-starved CEOS and managers face all manner of complications. Not least is dealing with an employee engagement crisis in which a staggering 87% of the worldwide population is not engaged at work.1 Through my time spent coaching clients and revisiting my own personal leadership experiences at Microsoft, I’ve uncovered four key ways that leaders frequently go off beam, both in how they manage themselves and manage their teams: Where leaders go wrong 1. They target weaknesses, not strengths.

Misguided leaders waste vital time, money and energy grappling with faults and failures rather than recognising and leveraging people’s natural talents. The result?

Disengaged and dissatisfied teams.

2. They fail to ‘have a dream’. A leader lacking a clear, inspirational purpose or vi-

sion will have a tough time rallying people in a unified direction. Accomplished employees don’t just want any old job; they want meaning and the chance to contribute to something bigger than themselves.

3. They manage time, not energy. Facing non-stop demands in the workplace, leaders cram their diaries to the brim believing that they’re skilfully maximising their time.

Instead, they’re recklessly abusing their energy, diluting their focus and heading straight for a burnout.

4. They put success before happiness.

When leaders set their sights only on the material trappings and tangible accomplishments of life, such as money or metrics, they ignore the deeper connections and meaningful activities that produce long-lasting success and happiness.

It was with these errors in mind that I sought to develop a new approach to leadership, one that answers the plight of frustrated leaders looking for a more positive way to navigate the cut and thrust of the business world.

Grounded in positive psychology, the 4Ps of Positive Leadership model is my contribution to the leadership field, providing a workable system for any kind of leader and organisation: The 4Ps of Positive Leadership 1. Positive People (The ‘Who’) – Discover and work to your strengths.

2. Positive Purpose (The ‘Why’) – Identify your mission and vision.

3. Positive Process (The ‘How’) – Manage energy, not time (become a ‘Chief Energy Officer’).

4. Positive Place (The ‘Where’) – Lead yourself to happiness, and success will follow.

You might notice one particular type of P missing from this list – that’s right, Performance. That’s because performance isn’t a cause of successful leadership, but rather an end result. By championing a more positive and authentic approach, you open yourself and others up to greater happiness. And once you’ve achieved that happier state?

You guessed it – outstanding performance is quick to follow. Positive psychology research has proven that the ‘happiness breeds success’ edict isn’t hocus-pocus, but actual fact.

It’s time we treated it as a real and significant principle of leadership best practice. A closer look at the 4Ps can show you whether you’re on the right track in your leadership.

POSITIVE PEOPLE: Building Strengths One of the most worrisome aspects in the modern workplace is our obsession with ‘fixing weaknesses’. Not too great at giving presentations? Then you need to spend more time practising. Are your budgeting skills under par? Well go on a course and keep working at it. Leaders will spend whopping amounts of energy and untold hours trying to address the legion of discernible flaws in themselves, their teams and their organisations. The problem with this approach is that it causes us to overlook the things that actually make us great: our strengths. It’s by playing to our strengths that we produce our best work and make our weaknesses irrelevant. Not too sure what your strengths are? There are lots of ways to find out. A good starting point is to use a survey method such as StrengthsFinder 2.0, Via Survey or Realise 2.

Remember that leadership isn’t just about you; it’s also about the people you depend on to do your job effectively—your team. Make

1 Gallup (2013). ‘The state of the global workplace: Employee engagement insights for business leaders worldwide’. [Online] Available from: http://www.gallup.com/services/178517/stateglobal-workplace.aspx 2 Loehr, Jim and Schwartz, Tony (2003). The Power of Full Engagement: Managing Energy, Not Time, Is the Key to High Performance and Personal Renewal. New York: Simon & Schuster.

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CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS III/2016

sure you have a balanced team who bring a variety of complementary strengths to the table, and that each individual is filling a role that utilises their unique talents. This not only makes your job easier, but also generates confidence in your followers and increases engagement with their tasks.

POSITIVE PURPOSE: Personal Mission & Ultimate Vision We all have a responsibility to ourselves to find a job, career or lifestyle that we love; something that gives us a sense of purpose – a ‘why’ for doing things. This is our personal mission. We all have one. Make it your priority to find your personal mission so you can enjoy greater moments of ‘flow’ and drive positive change in the right direction. Ask yourself: What are your strengths? Your values?

Your passions?

But as a leader, it’s not enough to simply be aware of your purpose. By being visionary and creating a picture of what the future could be, you have the power to inspire others just as much as you inspire yourself. Getting the people around you on board with a clear vision – inspiring them to share a bigger purpose – gives you and your team a high platform from which to achieve more than you imagined possible. Surprising as it sounds, the need to make a meaningful contribution is fast overtaking money as the most powerful driver for performance. So instead of relying on bonuses, why not try helping your team unlock more of their potential in the workplace?

POSITIVE PLACE: Success vs Happiness Leaders are lost. In spite of their achievements and material wealth, many top-level leaders are mindlessly running the rat race – dashing headlong towards the next goal, the next gain, the next bonus – without finding happiness within their day-to-day existence.

They’re relying on success to make them happy, but their focus is in the wrong place.

Happiness is not one final point or moment in time. I define it as the overall pleasure you experience while on the path to unlocking your potential.

So how do you get on the happiness path?

By pursuing your personal mission instead of the rat race. Set goals that engage your strengths, connect with your values and do what you love to do, as well as what you have to do. Get this right and instead of simply looking forward to achieving your goals, you’ll actually enjoy the sense of direction and meaning that they bring to your everyday life.

For more information on the 4Ps of Positive Leadership, pick up a copy of The Positive Leader, by Jan Mühlfeit and Melina Costi.

Published by Pearson, Financial Times Publishing (Autumn 2016).

Keep up with Jan at: http://janmuhlfeit.com/ en. For details on Positive Leadership training courses and workshops, visit www.OpenGenius.com and http://janmuhlfeit.com/en.

By Jan Mühlfeit Global Strategist, Coach and Mentor, former Microsoft Chairman for Europe české znění naleznete v elektronické verzi magazínu na www.czechleaders.com

POSITIVE PROCESS: Energy Management Being ‘busy-busy’ is such a feature of modern life that no business leader can say they aren’t feeling the strain. Faced with relentless demands in the workplace, we try to take control of our time through typical time management methods – using day planners and to-do lists, setting up reminders on our smartphones – driven by the idea that the more we can squeeze into our day, the more productive (and hopefully the less stressed!) we will be. However, the key to avoiding burnout is not how we manage time; it’s how we manage energy. Unlike time, which is strictly limited to 24 hours per day for everyone, personal energy is renewable.2 Today’s businesses need leadership that recognises the value of ‘strategic renewal’.

Throughout the day, our bodies follow a cycle where they are at their peak energy levels for 90–120 minutes, after which they hit a trough for about 20–30 minutes (these are called ultradian rhythms). During our low periods, we feel tired, irritable and groggy, and we lose focus. By resting at these times, we can revitalise ourselves and refuel our energy ‘tank’ for those key moments when we need to work on our most challenging, high-grade tasks.

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I nterview Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are often referred to as the backbone of the European economy, providing a potential source for jobs and economic growth. In fact, they represent 99% of all businesses in the EU. In the Asia-Pacific region, these businesses are the engines for growth and innovation. It is a great opportunity for the Czech and Slovak Leaders magazine to present Mr. Rostislav Jirkal, a former CEO of Servodata, who after 25 years in ICT family business is leaving the company to join another SME, consulting company QED Group. He shares with us his journey, important milestones, experiences gained and difficult moments. What is it like for an owner of an SME to negotiate with a multinational Goliath?

And what is he looking forward to in his new consulting career at QED Group?

What does it feel like to hand over originally a small Czech family business to the international consulting group BDO, currently ranking among the top five largest consulting companies?

It feels special. I’d compare it to wearing the same coat for 25 years, then taking it off and being able to wear any style jacket I choose. I realised that after a certain time spent at the top as CEO, more and more tasks and assignments kept piling on, and at the expense of activities I found energising and more fulfilling. So right now, I am looking forward to the new beginning, launching new projects and feeling a renewed sense of excitement, passion and purpose.

Let us now discuss the three phases that each family business has to go through in order to develop and grow successfully, and eventually become a part of the global market. These phases can be divided into: 1) the early phase, dedicated to the development of an enterprise and its brand; 2) the middle phase, devoted to attraction of customers and development of a team; and 3) the final phase, focused on systems, processes and finance in order to prepare for an acquisition. So, let us go back 25 years, just after the Velvet Revolution, when you and your brother founded the Servodata company.

Only a handful of people realise how unprecedented the period of early 1990s was. The market was hungry to get new technologies. But the way to reach the customer was not straightforward. There were many administrative barriers, including an embargo on importing the latest technology from Western countries. We were launching unknown products, trying to explain their benefits to the market. I recall difficult negotiations with the top representatives of the Seagate company who found it hard to believe that someone in Czechoslovakia could be interested in a 20 MB disc! My career was made by my ability to identify new directions and trends and then evangelising them to the often doubtful market to become more receptive. Using some current entrepreneurial language, I was totally “in the flow”; that is, I was doing what came most naturally to me, and that served my company well. And so with our growing reputation, we attracted partnerships with top global brands, such as EMC,

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CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS III/2016

I nterview Compaq, IBM and many others. Thanks to these powerful partnerships, Servodata’s brand became very strong. The innovation stage came back later when I built a team dedicated to technology training at the Datascript company, and also started to develop the overall market by introducing open source tools.

What did the second phase, which was dedicated to the team development, look like? Servodata was known as a talent incubator for multinational companies, with many of its former employees working nowadays at global companies such as DHL, Avnet, HP and Red Hat, among others.

I believe in the rule saying you should always hire people who are smarter than you. Since the beginning, we created a distinct culture to ensure that all our colleagues, both men and women, could show off their skills, as well as receive the support and encouragement to become better experts than us, the owners. So we applied two trends in practice, succession planning and talent management, which were heavily debated. The challenge was, since we were bringing totally new technologies, that we could not find anyone familiar with these on the market. I remember hiring an academic expert who did not speak English.

We provided intensive language training and after three months this guy was ready to pass an extremely demanding certification process in the United States. As we could not compete with multinational companies with respect to salaries and benefits, we instead created a company culture that was open, innovative and creative - an environment very much today sought after by top talent. I was very pleased to hear the reaction of potential candidates during interviews who heard that Servodata was a company where “life is good”.

Let us move to the last phase, where a company prepares to be acquired. This phase is usually unknown and occurs behind scenes. How difficult was it for you to concentrate on processes and systems and also lead negotiations for the hand over? Did you feel like you were a small David facing an international Goliath?

This phase is extremely demanding, but thanks to the fact that we have been a partner to various global companies since the beginning, we had to adjust to their structures and processes. We had at our disposal not only the latest information systems, but also internal communication processes and overall systems of training and development. As far as negotiations with investors were concerned, these were thrilling and full of creative energy.

A small Czech company, represented by a small team of three or four individuals, facing a global corporation with a team of thirty people! I had to be familiar with all aspects of negotiations, beginning with financial terms, all the way to final negotiations when we were examining

each word in the contract. I’ve always relied on a strong team, this time being composed of external advisors, so we were neither surprised, nor taken advantage of. I am truly proud of the value that we have left to our foreign partners when handing over parts of the company, not only the financial value, but the value in its ability to remain healthy and grow under new conditions. The same was true for the process of acquiring new companies, such as M.S.D. or Abakus Distribution; the value of those companies was later multiplied thanks to successful integration into the structure of Servodata Group.

What is the most profound message you would like to pass on to other owners of SMEs? As I said, I’ve been able to successfully complete the life cycle of an enterprise: defining a vision, building a structure, building a team, proving a viable concept of a repeatable business model, up until the final phase of monetisation for owners and shareholders. Thanks to being an expert partner in advisory bodies of several global corporations, I was able to become familiar with global organisational structures, including top management, knowing both the pros and cons of how these corporations work on a daily basis. On top of that, as I learned to understand and see the world from an investor's point of view, I gained valuable experience in both the acquisition and divestments processes.

So naturally, I learned to deal with different company cultures. I think there are only a few issues left out there that might surprise me!

I want to use this experience and knowledge to help business owners to identify the best development path for a particular defining moment in their development. I am aware of many paths and culde-sacs which could lead them astray from their desired end-game, and how to avoid these, saving headaches, and well as time and money, which of course is totally essential for the health of an enterprise itself during this journey.

What are you looking forward to in your future consulting career?

I am looking forward to drawing upon my first hand experience to co-create new visions for inspiring companies, and to help solve situations, from a consultant point of view, which appear unsolvable from the perspective of those involved in it on daily basis. Succession planning in SMEs is an issue that has become very pressing in the Czech Republic. It was not by chance that I was able to successfully complete the enterprise life-cycle with Servodata Group. There is a measurable process and proven methods. That said, anyone trying to solve the puzzle of succession planning should start to think about the team, internally and externally. Despite the so-called war on talent being mentioned in media headlines, I see many talented people around who are not given a chance. The feeling that “I am the only one to be able to solve that” is an illusion and does not serve anyone

And why did you decide to join QED Group?

I perceive QED Group as a company of enthusiastic professionals, led by Radvan Bahbouh, a leading Czech coach, a psychologist, a psychiatrist and also a mathematician, who has unique, proven and long-time expertise in building high performance teams. There is a vast range of products QED Group offers, and I find that all of these reflect the latest scientific work which combines mathematics, psychology and other disciplines. For example, “sociomapping” is one of those unique tools, which became famous also thanks to the MARS 500 project.

Unfortunately, there is a myth that only the richest multinational corporations can afford the best products with regards to learning and development. Based on my direct experience, I know that SMEs are vitally dependent on finding maximum efficiency in how they function. And, I should mention again, it is the SMEs who are disrupting current dogmas, and are taking the lead to contribute to the growth of economy and bring innovation. I see my new mission to assist and help them.

By Linda Štucbartová české znění naleznete v elektronické verzi magazínu na www.czechleaders.com

Radvan Bahbouh, founder of QED Group on Rostislav Jirkal...

In almost ten years I've known and interacted with Rostislav, I've never found him in the same place as the previous time.

Rostislav has this tendency to put things in motion, and in the midst of all that he is able to discover new roads, while doing it thoughtfully. From my perspective, it seems that he was able to transform his passion for paragliding into his profession.

Unlike his untidy office desk, his inner world is very orderly, but not static.

I have a feeling he'll still keep evolving and rearranging it in new ways, and so developing himself and his surroundings in ever more beneficial ways.

Note: Nikos Balamotis, a managing partner of QED Group was featured in Leaders in 2014; the interview can be accessed on the web page www.czechleaders.com

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C hange

communication

In

cooperation with

C zech & S lovak L eaders

Communicating effectively in times of change Change is the only constant in life or as some say, change is a fact of life. My company goes through a major change every other year, so communicating change has become an almost daily routine for me.

At times I hear people refer to change communication and change management interchangeably although P hoto : A rchive these are two different things. Some of you may know the John P. Kotter’s famous eight-stage model for change and its management. Change management is a structured approach to help individuals and teams adopt new methods and embrace different reality in the workplace, as well as ensure that changes are thoroughly and smoothly implemented, and that the lasting benefits of change are achieved. It consists of multiple components that Kotter outlined, starting with establishing a sense of urgency and finishing with instituting a change. However, what about the people we are taking with us on a change journey? How are they affected?

When explaining the impact of change on employee behaviours, I like using the Kübler-Ross five stages of grief, developed as a result of working with terminally ill patients, which are applicable to any transformation individuals go through: as people want to feel they are part of the process. You can also target influential leaders and managers to help drive the change.

Reinforcement – in this phase you repeat some of what has been communicated, tell success stories, lessons learned, inform on progress of the change taking place, and celebrate successes. This is also a perfect moment to say thank you to your people. Recognition is paramount in times of change, so people need to see their efforts are appreciated and valued, which will encourage them to keep up the good work.

Change is difficult and can be challenging for even the most experienced of leaders. While there’s certainly an adjustment period involved, if we lead from a place of understanding and clarity, we will achieve positive outcomes. Good communication contributes to eliminating people’s fears of and resistance to change.

Communication is one of crucial elements of change management. If done right, communication raises the level of understanding of what is happening, what it means for the organisation and ultimately for the individual, what role employees will play in the change process, and also manages their expectations. Based on the Towers Watson change and communication ROI study, organisations with effective change and communication management are 3.5 times as likely to significantly outperform their peers. So, how do we go about communicating change?

Overall, there are three phases to consider: Preparation – you need to have a solid strategy and a detailed plan with concise and simple key messages. Try to understand your employees’ concerns – do not forget you are taking them on a journey and you want them to follow closely, not to lag behind. This can also be an ideal opportunity to offer coaching to your leaders and provide supporting materials to line managers to ensure they understand how to deal with what employees are going through.

Drive – use multiple channels to communicate and align the organisation with the change – people consume information in different ways and you are trying to make all employees understand what is happening.

Establish a two-way communication. One of Stephen Covey's Seven Habits of Highly Effective People is ‘seek first to understand, then to be understood’ which captures the value of listening in communication.

So, communicate openly and honestly with an opportunity for feedback

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Remember, communication is happening even when we are silent; such approach, however, can generate rumours which may negatively impact productivity as well as retention. It is easier to build awareness and understanding of an upcoming change by communicating clearly from the start than fixing a negative impact of silence later on. Based on my experience, best results are produced when we proactively and consistently keep our teams informed – effective communication can help successfully sail the ever-changing and sometimes rough waters of a company environment.

By Tereza Urbánková české znění naleznete v elektronické verzi magazínu na www.czechleaders.com Tereza Urbánková is a PR, communications and marketing professional with over 15 years’ experience and proven success in industries such as hospitality, retail, IT, defence, broadcast, logistics and engineering. For the past 10 years she has been working and living in London, UK; currently, she is Head of Global Communications for Amec Foster Wheeler plc, a large international engineering and project management company. Tereza also works as a freelance communications and PR consultant. In 2015, she became a member of the Executive Committee of the Czech British Chamber of Commerce in the UK. She speaks Czech, English, Spanish and Russian and can be reached on terezaurbankova@ yahoo.com or through her LinkedIn profile.

sustainable development

WHY SHOULD WOMEN HAVE EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES?

THE BUSINESS CASE AGAINST DISCRIMINATION “A woman can freely choose not to have children and then in such a case I am sure that she has the same job opportunities as a man,” infamously stated former premier Mirek Topolánek. This was just one of a barrage of misogynist comments made by the former Czech leader in an address he made to mark the start of the European Year of Equal Opportunities in 2007.

Although strongly derided by many, it was disturbing how many voices of support his blatantly discriminatory speech attracted at the time.

But has the Czech nation advanced in the ensuing nine years, and have attitudes to gender equality improved?

The facts are not all-together encouraging. Today, the Czech Republic still ranks both below the world and European averages in terms of the representation of women in all important political bodies; and women in the workforce earn 20 percent less than their male counterparts.

According to the Inter-Parliamentary Union, the Czech Republic is in the 76th position among 190 countries as regards women’s representation in parliament. Women hold just 15 percent of seats in the 200-member Czech Chamber of Deputies and less than 14 percent in the 81-member Senate.

The World Economic Forum’s Gender Gap Equality report has seen the Czech Republic slip to 96th place on a ladder of 142 countries surveyed.

But the current Czech government clearly acknowledges the disparity in opportunities between men and women in this country, and is taking serious steps to narrow the gap.

The combating of discrimination against women and promotion of gender equality is firmly grounded in the legislation of the Czech Republic. Fundamental rights and freedoms are guaranteed to all under the Constitution, the Charter of Fundamental Rights and Freedoms, as well as by international treaties. Compliance is overseen by the Constitutional Court.

A former director of Greenpeace International, Jonathan Wootliff lives in Prague and works throughout the world as a sustainability consultant to business. He chairs the Board of Experts of the Czech Business Council for Sustainable Development. He has consulted many large corporations including BP, Colgate-Palmolive, McDonald’s, Procter & Gamble and Whirlpool, and providing counsel to companies on the development of sustainability strategies that benefit the environment, society and business. Among his many activities, he helps companies to resolve disputes, forge productive relationships with non-governmental organizations, and build long-term sustainability strategies. A qualified journalist with a subsequent background in public relations, Jonathan commonly assists companies with their sustainability communications. He can be contacted at jonathan@wootliff.com .

In addition to the key regulation of discrimination in Czech Penal and the Civil codes, the Anti-Discrimination Act adopted in 2009 has strengthened the protection against discrimination, including that against women in all major areas of society.

Bias on the grounds of gender also includes prejudice on the grounds of pregnancy and maternity with the Act including a raft of positive measures designed to stop such inequity and eliminate the disadvantages facing women.

The statistics make interesting and in some cases encouraging reading. In 2015 women made up 56 per cent of all university students and 60 per cent of graduates. The employment rate of women aged 20-64 is over 64 per cent and has increased by more than three percentage points since 2010.

The gender pay gap in the country reduced from 24 per cent to 21.6 per cent in 2015.

And yet despite these positive developments women still face many challenges and barriers in balancing their professional and private life including a low level of male participation in childcare as well as other forms of care.

In order to support the availability of child-care services, the government has also prepared an amendment to the Education Act which guarantees pre-schoolers the right to a place in kindergarten from the age of four by 2017 and from the age of three by 2018.

“The most serious discrimination of women takes place on the labour market”, says Nina Bosničová of the Czech non-governmental organisation, Gender Studies. “Women are discriminated against when looking for a job and if they have small children they tend to be the first to be laid off”.

“But the biggest and most visible type of discrimination that women face in the Czech Republic is the gender pay gap”, she says.

“Women in the same or similar positions as men earn less money than their male colleagues and the higher we go in the company hierarchy the bigger the difference. A woman in a managerial position for instance can earn just 50 percent of what her male colleague would earn,” she adds.

While gender equality is a moral imperative, it is good for the economy.

Considerable rewards can be attained by businesses which successfully attract both women and men to their workforce.

Research suggests that organisations that respect and value the diversity brought by both women and men are better able to attract and retain high performers and improve operational performance.

It is not, however, simply about employing “token” women.

Gender equality is achieved when people are able to access and enjoy the same rewards, resources and opportunities regardless of whether they are a woman or a man. The aim is to achieve broadly equal outcomes for women and men, not exactly the same outcome for all individuals.

Although the Czech Republic has made significant progress towards gender equality with women continuing to earn less than men, and less likely to advance their careers as far as men, much more needs to be done.

Corporate sustainability is about balancing the three business imperatives of People, Planet and Profit. Successful companies that are equipped for the challenges of tomorrow make significant efforts to do far more than just follow the law, by going beyond legal compliance.

Companies don’t generally change their policies to enhance opportunities for woman just because they believe it’s the right thing to do. They do it because there are compelling business reasons.

Many research projects have shown that diversity can directly help the bottom line. Staff turnover has significant costs. Studies show that companies that provide equal opportunities for women hold onto their staff for considerably longer. And there is much evidence to show that these companies are far more successful in attracting the best talent.

A recent major study acknowledges that there are a range of reasons why company performance and gender diversity may be linked. One factor is that well managed, diversity brings together varied perspectives, produces a more holistic analysis of the issues a company faces and spurs greater effort, leading to improved decision making.

Women either control or influence more than 70 percent of purchasing decisions in the Czech Republic. Gender diversity facilitates business understanding of how to appeal to women as customers and what products and services women and men need and want, thus helping companies to create new business opportunities.

The business case for gender diversity and gender equality is strong.

Until greater progress to gender equality is achieved, business growth in the Czech Republic will inevitably be hampered. It’s high time for Czech business to wake up and appreciate the benefits of providing women with the same opportunities as men.

By Jonathan Wootliff

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS III/2016

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D iplomatic

P hoto : M iguel A lonso

event

CANADA DAY 2016

From left: Milan Štěch, President of the Senate of the Czech Republic, H.E. Otto Jelinek, Ambassador of Canada to the Czech Republic, and Jan Hamáček,Chairman of the Chamber of Deputies of the Parliament

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of the Czech Republic

D iplomatic

From left: Louise Beer, Master Corporal Genevieve Samson, Mrs. Leata Jelinek, wife of H.E. Otto Jelinek, Nancy Najmann, Warrant Officer, and Warrant Officer Philippe Dessureault

From left: Mrs. Leata Jelinek, wife of H.E. Otto Jelinek, H.E. Gary Koren, Ambassador of Israel to the Czech Republic, and H.E. Markus-Alexander Antonietti, Ambassador of Switzerland to the Czech Republic

Czech Soldier: Gabriel Kovács, Canadian Soldier: Major Eric Beauchamp

H.E. Otto Jelinek, Ambassador of Canada to the Czech Republic and H.E. Eduard W. V. M. Hoeks, Ambassador of the Netherlands to the Czech Republic

From left: H.E. Narong Sasitorn, Ambassador of Thailand to the Czech Republic, Mrs. Sasitorn, wife of the Ambassador of Thailand, behind them Karel Dyba, former Minister of Economy, and Hans Weber, Managing Director, Fryday Diplomatic Forum

From left: H.E. Otto Jelinek, Ambassador of Canada to the Czech Republic, Milan Štěch, President of the Senate of the Czech Republic, and Jan Hamáček, Chairman of the Chamber of Deputies of the Parliament of the Czech Republic

event

Milan Štěch, President of the Senate of the Czech Republic and Mrs. Outratová, in background centre ALexandra Brabcova – Canadian Chambre of Commerce

From left: H.E. Otto Jelinek, Ambassador of Canada to the Czech Republic, H.E. Maria Manuela Ferreira de Macedo Franco, Ambassador of Portugal to the Czech Republic and H. E. Pedro Calvo – Sotelo Ibanez – Martin, Ambassador of Spain to the Czech Republic

From left: H.E. Otto Jelinek, Ambassador of Canada to the Czech Republic and Josef Kotrba, Managing Partner, Deloitte with his spouse Petra Buzková

From left: Benke Aikell, your Publisher, Karel Muzikář, President, Comenius, and H.E. Otto Jelinek, Ambassador of Canada to the Czech Republic

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D iplomatic

event

H.E. Andrew Schapiro, Ambassador of USA to the Czech Republic From left: Canadian Major Eric Bauchamp, Henry Jelinek, H.E. Otto Jelinek, Ambassador of Canada to the Czech Republic, and Mauliff Bose, MCO, Embassy of Canada

From left: Mirek Topolánek, former Prime Minister of the Czech Republic and H.E. Otto Jelinek, Ambassador of Canada to the Czech Republic From left: H.E. Otto Jelinek, Ambassador of Canada to the Czech Republic, Pavel Svoboda, MEP,and Matthew Duras, Johnny Servis

From left: H.E. Tetsuo Yamakawa, Ambassador of Japan to the Czech Republic with his spouse and H.E. Otto Jelinek, Ambassador of Canada to the Czech Republic

From left: H.E. Otto Jelinek, Ambassador of Canada to the Czech Republic and H.E. Jan Koukal, former Czech Ambassador to Austria and former Lord Mayor of Prague

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Major Eric Beauchamp in front with Jan Struž (Top 100) and his spouse behind

Jiří Weigl, Institute of Václav Klaus welcomed by H.E. Otto Jelinek, Ambassador of Canada to the Czech Republic and his wife Leata

From left: Oldřich Lomecký, Mayor of Prague 1, Eliška Hašková Coolidge, and H.E. Otto Jelinek, Ambassador of Canada to the Czech Republic

N etworking /C harity

Lions Club Prague Bohemia Ambassador Charity-social Evening in Austria Palace From left: MUDr.Zdenka Geráková, Dentist, Member of LC Praha Ladies, JUDr.Emilie Štěpánková, Judge, former Governor of LCI D122 Czech Republic and Slovak Republic, MUDr. Libuše Novotná, Dentist, Secretary of LC Praha Ladies, Ing. Antonín Mika, Director, Foreign Trade Company LAMMEX and former President of LC Praha Bohemia Ambassador

In

cooperation with

From left: Ing. Tomáš Spurný, Economist, State Office for Nuclear Safety, Ing. Antonín Míka, Director, Foreign Trade Company LAMMEX, and Ing.Rudolf Kočí, Entrepreneur

From left: Miroslav Hříbal, Entrepreneur and Ing. František Novotný, President, Association APST and SDSS and Secretary of LC Praha Bohemia Ambassador

C zech & S lovak L eaders

From left: Miroslav Hříbal, Entrepreneur and next President of LC Praha Bohemia Ambassador, Ing. Anton Gerák, CSc., Commercial Director, former President of LC Praha Bohemia Ambassador and Secretary of LCI D122 Czech Republic and Slovak Republic, and Ing.František Novotný, President, Association APST and SDSS and Secretary of LC Praha Bohemia Ambassador

From left: PhDr. Martin Komárek, Member of Parliament of the Czech Republic, political Party ANO, Journalist, Mgr. Petra Komárková, Member of LC Praha Ladies, and Oldřich Hořák, Entrepreneur, Owner, Hotel Bílá růže in Poděbrady

From left: JUDr. Jaroslav Novotný, Lawyer, Chief Editor of Magazine "Český a Slovenský Lion", JUDr. Emilie Štěpánková, Judge, former Governor of LCI D122 Czech Republic and Slovak Republic, and JUDr. Vojtěch Trapl, Lawyer and former Governor of LCI D122 Czech Republic and Slovak Republic

From left: Ing.František Novotný, President, Association APST and SDSS and Secretary of LC Praha Bohemia Ambassador, Miroslav Hříbal, Entrepreneur and next President of LC Praha Bohemia Ambassador, Ing. Rudolf Kočí, Entrepreneur, and Ing.Anton Gerák CSc, Commercial Director, former President of LC Praha Bohemia Ambassador and Secretary of LCI D122 Czech Republic and Slovak Republic

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS III/2016

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A ceremonial ribbon cutting and opening of the exhibition. From left: Richard Loibl (Director of the Centre of Bavarian History), Ulrich Großmann (General Director of the Germanisches Nationalmuseum), Christian Lübke (Director for the History and Culture of Eastern Central Europe in GWZO Leipzig), Jiří Fajt (General Director of the Czech National Gallery and Curator of the exhibition), Barbara Stamm (President of the Bavarian State Parliament), Milan Štěch (President of the Senate of the Parliament of the Czech Republic), Bohuslav Sobotka (Prime Minister of the Czech Republic), Horst Seehofer (Prime Minister of the State of Bavaria), Dominik Cardinal Duka, (Archbishop of Prague), Ludwig Spaenle (Bavarian State Minister of Education, Sciences and Arts) and Daniel Herman (Minister of Culture of the Czech Republic) Photos: Senate Chancellery

Ceremonial Opening Charles IV Exhibition President of the Senate of the Parliament of the Czech Republic Milan Štěch greeting Bavarian State Minister of Education, Sciences and Arts Ludwig Spaenle. In the background: Minister of Culture of the Czech Republic Daniel Herman

Dagmar Havlová, former First Lady and Milan Štěch, President of the Senate of the Parliament of the Czech Republic, with his daughter and wife

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Richard Loibl, Director of the Centre of Bavarian History and Milan Štěch, President of the Senate of the Parliament of the Czech Republic

President of the Senate of the Parliament of the Czech Republic Milan Štěch in discussion with General Director of the Czech National Gallery Jiří Fajt and Minister of Culture of the Czech Republic Daniel Herman

Dominik Cardinal Duka, Archbishop of Prague with Ludwig Spaenle, Bavarian State Minister of Education, Sciences and Arts

From left: Daniel Herman, Minister of Culture of the Czech Republic, Bohuslav Sobotka, Prime Minister of the Czech Republic, Milan Štěch, President of the Senate of the Parliament of the Czech Republic with his spouse, and Horst Seehofer, Prime Minister of the State of Bavaria with his spouse

The foreground shows Prime Minister of the Czech Republic Bohuslav Sobotka, behind him President of the Senate of the Parliament of the Czech Republic Milan Štěch, Prime Minister of the State of Bavaria Horst Seehofer with his spouse and Minister of Culture of the Czech Republic Daniel Herman with Dagmar Havlová

A speech of the President of the Senate of the Parliament of the Czech Republic Milan Štěch before the opening ceremony of the vernissage. Behind him: Eva Davidová, Press Secretary of the Senate

At the Wallenstein Palace, seat of the Parliament of the Czech Republic, the Ceremonial Opening of Charles IV exhibition took place with a large foreign and domestic cultural and political representation, which made it a truly exceptional event. However, the main purpose of the festival was to celebrate the 700th birth anniversary of Charles IV, King of Bohemia, Holy Roman Emperor and in addition, one of the most extraordinary personalities of Czech and European history. This occasion saw the launch of an exhibition titled “Emperor Charles IV 1316–2016”, offset up in the Wallenstein Riding School. This exposition has been created in cooperation with the Senate Chancellery and the Czech National Gallery under the auspices of Milan Štěch, President of the Senate of the Parliament of the Czech Republic, and other relevant stakeholders.

Horst Seehofer, Prime Minister of the State of Bavaria

Wallenstein garden view during the ongoing festival

From left: Daniel Herman, Minister of Culture of the Czech Republic, Milan Štěch, President of the Senate of the Parliament of the Czech Republic, and Horst Seehofer, Prime Minister of the State of Bavaria

Pavel Smutný, Lawyer, Císař, Češka, Smutný law firm and Milan Štěch, President of the Senate of the Parliament of the Czech Republic

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diplomatic events

N ational O rder

of the

L egion

of

H onour

On July 12th 2016, the Czech Embassy to Paris organized a military reception at its premises. During the reception, H.E. Marie Chatardová, Ambassador of the Czech Republic to France received the National Order of the Legion of Honour, degree Commander, from the Secretary of State for European Affairs Mr Harlem Désir. She is the first Czech woman having so high degree of this most important French decoration.

Mr. Benoît Chatard, husband of the Ambassador, receiving the Honorary Consul of the Czech Republic to Dijon Mr. Philippe Barbe with H.E. Marie Chatardová in the middle.

Secretary of State for European Affairs Mr Harlem Désir and H.E. Marie Chatardová

O rder

of

Legion of Honor ceremony at the Embassy of the Czech Republic to France. Secretary of State for European Affairs Mr Harlem Désir and H.E. Marie Chatardová.

Reception at the Embassy of the Czech Republic to France

H.E. Marie Chatardová receiving the National Order of the Legion of Honour from the Secretary of State for European Affairs Mr Harlem Désir.

S aint -C harles

On July 11th 2016, Albert II, Prince of Monaco awarded the Order of Saint-Charles, degree Officer, to H.E. Marie Chatardová, Ambassador of the Czech Republic to France at the Embassy of Monaco to Paris.

According to our information, she is the first Czech having so high degree of this most important decoration.

H.E. Claude Cottalorda, Ambassador of Monaco to France and H.E. Marie Chatardová

From right: Albert II, Prince of Monaco, and H.E. Marie Chatardová with her husband Benoît Chatard

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Albert II, Prince of Monaco and H.E. Marie Chatardová

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS III/2016

H.E. Marie Chatardová receiving the Order of Saint-Charles from Albert II, Prince of Monaco.

diplomatic events

C zech D ay

in

M onaco

On June 15th 2016, the Czech Embassy to France and Monaco organized a Czech Day in Monaco promoting the famous Czech beer. Albert II, Prince of Monaco, also visited this event.

Albert II, Prince of Monaco with H.E. Marie Chatardová on his right and General Honorary Consul of the Czech Republic to Monaco Mr François-Jean Brych. To his left President of the Pilsen Region Mr. Václav Šlajs and Vice President of the Pilsen Region Mr. Jiří Struček.

President of the Pilsen Region Mr. Václav Šlajs with H.E. Marie Chatardová on the left, General Honorary Consul of the Czech Republic to Monaco Mr. François-Jean Brych, Vice President of the Pilsen Region Mr Jiří Struček and the Chod ensemble of Mrákov and Agricultural High School from Klatovy.

F arewell

meeting at

Albert II, Prince of Monaco and the Chod ensemble of Mrákov.

UNESCO

H.E. Marie Chatardová at a farewell meeting with Director-General of UNESCO, Irina Bokova.

From left: H.E. Marie Chatardová and Director-General of UNESCO, Irina Bokova

H.E. Marie Chatardová in the middle with Irina Bokova, Director-General of UNESCO

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS III/2016

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gala evening

International Conference of WCI – WELCOME CLUB INTERNATIONAL

30th International Conference of WELCOME CLUB INTERNATIONAL (WCI), held under the auspices of the Minister of Culture Mr. Daniel Herman and Ms. Eva Kislingerová, Deputy Mayor of the Capital City of Prague and the Prague City Hall, took place in magnificent Tančící dům with splendid views across the city.

At the venue María Fernanda Arduino de Obiglio de Brazil was elected a new President of Welcome Club International while renowned artist Helena Kroftová Leisztner was awarded with MARIANA ADAIR AWARD INTERNATIONAL for her lifetime art work and philanthropy.

WCI is a non- profit association of international women"s clubs. Its purpose is to create a worldwide network of independent international women's clubs sharing a common goal of cross-cultural education and friendship. WCI began in 1989 and every other year organizes conferences all over the world. This year, Alena Klenot and Sarka de Jong organized the conference in Prague. Next time, the conference will be held in Washington D.C.

Dr Giovanni Sciola, Cultural Counsellor, Embassy of Italy and General Manager, Culture Institute of Italy

From left: Pam Bansbach, ex-Prezident, WCI and President, WCI Colorado, Oldřich Lomecký, Mayor of Prague 1, Barbara Slezáková, Opera Singer, María Arduino de Obiglio, President, WCI and Prezident, WCI of Brasil, and Šárka de Yonge, former President, IWAP

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Helena Kroftová Leisztner, Artist receiving MARIANA ADAIR AWARD INTERNATIONAL from María Arduino de Obiglio, new elected President, WCI and WCI of Brasil

From left: Benke Aikell, your Publisher, Veronika Blažková, Spokeswoman of the Prague 1 townhall, Helena Kroftová Leisztner, Artist, Vice Chairwoman FNMWA, Oldřich Lomecký, Mayor of Prague , H.E. George Prata, Ambassador of Peru, and Alena Klenot, Marketing Director, IWAP, Organizer of the WCI conference in Prague

gala evening

From left: Oldřich Lomecký, Mayor of Prague 1, Helena Kroftová Leisztner, Artist, H.E. George Prata, Ambassador of Brasil, and Veronika Blažková, Spokeswoman of the Prague 1 townhall at the terrace of Tančící dům

From left: Roland Leisztner, CEO, Rolei Developments, Helena Kroftová Leisztner, Artist, Vice Chairwoman FNMWA, Roland Leisztner jr., Student, and Radka Vladyková, Mayor of Jesenice

From left: Marie Carr, Personal Asssistant to the United States Senator Mr.Bill Nelson and Valerie Dunn, Washington, President, WCI

From left: Alena Klenot, Marketing Director, IWAP, Organizer of the WCI conference in Prague, Eva Anderová, former Deputy of the Minister of Finance, now Honorary Consul of Zambia and Business Consultant to Czech & Slovak Leaders, Robert Bucher, CEO, NOVOSOL, Radka Vladyková, Mayor of Jesenice, Benke Aikell, Your Publisher, Helena Kroftová Leisztner, Artist, and Barbara Slezáková, Opera Singer

Helena Kroftová Leisztner with her Mariana Adair Award

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I nterview

M edical doctors have always played an important role in the C zech society . I t is a great opportunity for the C zech and S lovak L eaders M agazine to start a new series of inspiring interviews with leading C zech and S lovak doctors , who comment not only on the latest development in their areas of expertise , but also give useful advice to our readers and share their different perspectives on current issues .

An interview with

Prof. MUDr. Jiří Chomiak

On Sports, Warm-up Routine and Expanding Knowledge Prof. Jiří Chomiak, MD, PhD., is the Head of Orthopaedic Paediatric Department at the Bulovka Hospital Prague. He also is the Professor of Orthopaedics on First Medical Faculty of Charles University, a FIFA Medical Committee member and an active FIFA doping control officer. He researched and introduced the FIFA 11+ warm up programme designed to prevent injuries for football players in the Czech Republic. He regularly publishes in the top medical journals. Yet, he still manages outpatient practice once a week, focusing on a hip examination of new born babies, in the Bulovka Hospital.

That is where we met 13 years ago. I am one of many lucky Czech mothers, whose child got the special, efficient hip treatment, not requiring a surgery, thanks to the early treatment programme. I have always admired his dedication to medicine and patients. As a person, Prof. Chomiak is not very talkative but whatever he says bears enormous depth and wisdom. It was a pleasure and privilege to discuss with him not only the orthopaedic discipline he has dedicated his professional life to, but also his view on sports in general and last but not least the latest development in Czech football which, after the European Football Championship, interests at least a half of the Czech population.

Practising medicine cannot be compared to a profession, it is a mission. You have chosen the domain of orthopaedics. Was there any particular reason for choosing this specialisation?

My journey to the orthopaedics specialisation was a bit complicated. When I was an assistant at the Anatomy Institute, besides teaching, I was also researching the place of neuromuscular synapsis, i.e. the place where the transmission from a nerve into a muscle originates. It was an interesting study but I missed being with patients.

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So I decided to join the orthopaedic department.

I realised that this specialisation will enable me to continue my research and put the theoretical research into practice in addition to everyday work. I managed that quite well, I applied my knowledge from the anatomical research into several areas dealing with new methods both during examinations as well as surgeries.

Orthopaedics is connected to sports. The Czech language, in fact, includes two sayings and even approaches – the first

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS III/2016

one “doing sports will bring you health”, the more sceptic one “doing sports will bring you permanent injuries”. Knowing you personally, you are not a supporter of modern, trendy sports such as golf or squash when performed by managers.

I consider the sport being essential activity that can prevent many civilization diseases. However, it needs to be performed adequately. Then the first claim “doing sports will bring you health” is correct. The second saying contains warning. Very often, when amateur sport fans try to reach the

I nterview work and be able to provide for their families. In the Czech Republic, all medical care is covered from the general health insurance. If patients were required to pay for their irresponsible behaviour and self-damage in form of smoking, alcohol abuse and obesity, then the relationship doctor - patient would be different. We saw how this approach was useful in dental medicine. Special health coverage, known in the Western countries, would be useful and would bring additional finances into the overall health system.

Jiří Chomiak with Cristiano Ronaldo, the best football player in the world

same level as professional athletes, they lack the appropriate medical support. As a result, the long term exhaustion and overstretch might bring severe injuries and degenerative, irreversible changes. I have nothing against golf, it is a nice sport but requires a lot of time which I personally do not have. On the contrary, I consider squash liquidating sport for non-professional athletes because those start playing without appropriate training and particularly warm up. Then they end up in my practice with many muscle and hamstrings injuries.

Since 2010, the Bulovka Hospital in Prague 8 has been a FIFA Medical Centre of Excellence (being the first centre of such kind in the region of Central and Eastern Europe). Its aim is to prevent injuries, improve physical and mental health together with the overall well-being of football players. You start working with very young players at the age of seven…So, given the disappointing performance of Czech football players in June at the Euro Cup, when will the condition and consequently the results of Czech players improve?

The question regarding health condition of Czech players is very pertinent, simply because it is far from being optimal. But we are able to address the issue and to improve it. Already in 2009, I introduced the unique warm up programme, the so called FIFA 11+, in the Czech Republic. However, the programme did not get enough support and attention to be introduced all the way to regions. This was in sharp contrast to other top football countries such as Germany, Italy, Spain and Brazil which have embraced this programme from the beginning. Only after we managed to prove the efficiency and the link to lowering the amount of injuries in expert magazines and also on the level of the Czech national representation team, we were asked for cooperation beginning with the North Bohemian region. We will be very glad to do so and so eventually hope to improve the overall health condition of our players.

I am also happy to share the news about the study that the Czech Republic and Switzerland undertook to research the youngest football generation, aged 7-12 years. The unique results were published in the most prestige American Journal of Sport Medicine. However, our aim was to design an appropriate warm up method for children. So the new programme, FIFA 11+ kids, was born and tested in the Czech Republic, Switzerland, Germany and the Netherlands. The results show astonishing 50% lowering of injury, such results were well beyond our expectations. The programme is now ready to be launched world-wide, which is also very good for the reputation of the Czech Republic abroad. Besides that, we are also active in other projects, such as juvenile osteochondrosis dissecans of the knee in football and also prevention of sudden cardiac arrest, which is a serious worldwide problem.

Most of my foreign friends living in the Czech Republic appreciate the high-quality Czech medical doctors and the health system in general. Czech medical doctors are also welcomed during various international projects and assistance to developing countries. You personally took part in MEDEVAC project, when Czech doctors were assisting to refugees in Syria. Don’t you personally regret that the work and quality of Czech doctors is not recognised by the Czech population?

Yes, it is a fact that the quality and work of doctors is not valued adequately. Unfortunately, the prestige of a doctor and patient relationship is also affected.

General population believes that doctors’salaries are horrendously high. However, most people forget that night shifts, emergencies and shifts during holidays are included in these statistics. Doctors must perform these shifts, not only to the detriment of their own personal free time but also health.

Nobody in our country doubts that additional working hours should be compensated but when it comes to doctors, people feel it is part of their mission. However, doctors must be compensated financially, so they can be fully dedicated to their

Doctors are often regarded as role models due to their specialisation. What is your approach to sports?

I try to get as much physical activity as possible, even at work. I take stairs instead of the lift. I do not have time for team sports but I ride a bicycle, regularly as a warm up during work days, with higher intensity during weekend. I like to swim and windsurf during my vacations. I also enjoy mountain hiking in summer, and skiing in winter.

With regards to the life-style and work-life balance, how do you handle the enormous workload? It was impossible to find time for our interview, since on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays you perform surgeries during the day and then you are at your practice, on Wednesdays you have nightshifts on Friday you were flying to the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. During the year, you also accompany many sport teams to various matches and championships.

I believe that it is up to every individual to find their own life philosophy. I truly enjoy what I do and that helps me to deal with the workload. You rightly mentioned that I spend most of my time working.

I also enjoy the scientific work as it leads to the feeling of satisfaction that we are able to expand our knowledge on the global scale. And then comes the vision of the weekend, when I am able to relax, spend time with my family and do sports.

The fact that I am a FIFA medical committee member brings me to various sport events, which means a lot of travelling but I enjoy connecting with people around the world and seeing new places. I also like making new great friendships.

What are your final words for Czech and Slovak Leaders readers?

Being a medical doctor, I advise the general population to find a healthy life style and sport that they like. Avoid heavy consumption of both food and drinks, so you need us, doctors as little as possible.

As a professor of Charles University, I would like to dedicate my last words to the new generation of doctors. Be rigorous and focused, sacrifice a little from your own comfort, make sure you constantly study even abroad and try to work on expanding our existing knowledge further.

By Linda Štucbartová české znění naleznete v elektronické verzi magazínu na www.czechleaders.com

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E lai

I nnovation

Week BY ELAI

Cargo Gallery boat

Czech Innovation Week took place on May 23 – 29, 2016, with 50 events in several places around the Czech Republic designed to introduce companies, cities and the general public to the latest global trends in innovation and modern technologies and to promote Czech innovations and invention.

The main event was the two-day “Innovation on the Waves” at Cargo Gallery in Prague. Friday’s program presented the latest trends in innovation and modern technologies, how they can be used in everyday life, and exciting projects already under way in the Czech Republic and elsewhere in the world.

Saturday’s program, called “Prague NanoDay,” gave the young and young-at-heart the chance to try out some of the newest technologies developed

by Czech nanotechnology companies. Czech Innovation Week was held under the auspices of Pavel Bělobrádek, Deputy Prime Minister for Science, Research and Innovation, Jan Mládek, Minister of Industry and Trade, Adriana Krnáčová, Mayor of Prague, and the US Embassy.

From left: Brian Benjamin, Smart City Program Manager, The Hague, Harold Langenberg, Head of Strategy & Communications, ALLEGO; Marie Claire Aarts, Founder, URBAN POPUP, and Karel Janeček, Mathematician and Author of D21

From left: Harold Langenberg, Head of Strategy & Communications, ALLEGO; Marie Claire Aarts, Founder, URBAN POPUP; Karel Janeček, Mathematician and Author of D21; and Jan John, Managing Director, SIMPLECELL NETWORKS

From left: Juraj Atlas, Founder and CEO, Liftago, Petr Jonák, Member of the Board, Confederation of Industry of the Czech Republic, Jiří Kůs, Chairman of the Czech Nanotechnology Industries Association, and Liliana Berezkinová, CEO, Nanopharma

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Karel Janeček, Mathematician and Author of D21

From left: Juraj Atlas, Founder and CEO, Liftago, Petr Jonák, Member of the Board, Confederation of Industry of the Czech Republic, Jiří Kůs, Chairman of the Czech Nanotechnology Industries Association, and Michael Carvan, Executive Director, Research and Technology Institute; Moderator: Lukáš Sedláček, Founder and Executive Director, European Leadership & Academic Institute (ELAI) and Founder of startup Poetizer

D iplomatic F orum

FRYDAY Diplomatic Forum with H.E. Farid Shafiyev, Ambassador of Azerbaijan

From left: Firaz Muinov, CEO/Partner LEKVI GROUP, Victor Lekhman, CEO and Managing Director LEKVI GROUP, Khalil Noorzai, Second Secretary at the Embassy of Afghanistan, and H.E. Serzhan Abdykarimov, Ambassador of Kazakhstan

On the 5th April 2016, the Anglo-American University, in cooperation with Mr. Hans Weber, Managing Partner of Fryday Prague and main organizer of the event, hosted another diplomatic event, this time with H.E. Farid Shafiyev, Ambassador of Azerbaijan. The audience, as usual, was composed of students (mainly from the Anglo-American University), business leaders and diplomats.

The discussion focused on the sudden military confrontation between Azerbaijan and Armenia, which had just occured. The atmosphere was really absorbing, in particular because of the simultaneous presence of Azerbaijani and Armenian students, who exchanged their views on the issue in a very frank way. A dinner at the Marriott Hotel concluded the event.

H.E. Farid Shafiyev, Ambassador of Azerbaijan

Khalil Noorzai, Second Secretary, Embassy of Afghanistan

H.E. Aldo Amati, Ambassador of Italy

From left: Hans Weber, Managing Partner FRYDAY Prague and H.E. Farid Shafiyev, Ambassador of Azerbaijan

H.E. Tajammul Altaf Chughtai, Ambassador of Pakistan

Audience

FRYDAY Diplomatic Forum with H.E. George Prata, Ambassador of Brasil The last diplomatic event before the summer break, organized by Mr. Hans Weber, Managing Partner of Fryday Prague, was held at the University of New York in Prague on the 15.6.2016. This time, the invitation was accepted by H.E. George Monteiro, Ambassador of Brasil who offered an interesting presentation on the main political and economic matters in his country. The audience of students and business leaders actively participated in the light and instructive discussion. A dinner for selected participants followed at the restaurant Leggero.

From left: Hans Weber, Managing Partner, FRYDAY Prague, Pietro Andrea Podda, Professor at AAU, H.E. George Prata, Ambassador of Brasil, and Andreas Antonopoulos, University Rector at UNYP

H.E. George Prata, Ambassador of Brasil

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Hans Weber, Managing Partner FRYDAY Prague, and H.E. George Prata, Ambassador of Brasil

H.E. George Prata, Ambassador of Brasil

Mauro Lazzari, Managing Director, VIDATEC a.s. - TTC2 s.r.o.

Helena Leisztner, Artist, Fashion Designer, PR and Marketing and Hans Weber, Managing Partner, FRYDAY Prague

Guests

FRYDAY Diplomatic Forum On the 31st May 2016, the Anglo-American University, in cooperation with Mr. Hans Weber, Managing Partner of Fryday Prague and main organizer of the event, hosted another diplomatic event, this time with the 4 spouses of the Ambassadors of their respective countries: Mrs. Odilia de Ranitz (Netherlands), Mrs.Tamar Newberger-Schapiro (USA), Mrs. Miriam Prata (Brasil), and Mr. Paul Hermans (Belgium). The guests discussed the role of the spouses in the work of Ambassadors, revealing that it is substantial and not only purely procedural. The audience, besides students and business leaders, included various spouses of diplomats too. A dinner for selected participants, as usual at the Marriott Hotel, followed.

Mrs. Miriam Prata, spouse of the Ambassador of Brasil

From left: Mrs. Miriam Prata, spouse of the Ambassador of Brazil, Ulker Shafiyeva, spouse of the Ambassador of Azerbaijan, Aida Campara, spouse of the Deputy Ambassador of Bosnia and Hercegovina, Mrs. Odilia de Ranitz, spouse of the Ambassador of the Netherlands, Aleksandra Martinovska, spouse of the Ambassador of Macedonia, and Mr. Paul Hermans, spouse of the Ambassador of Belgium

From left: H.E. Alexander Grubmayr, Ambassador of Austria, Lenka Pršalová, Finance Manager, Process Solutions, and ThomasGeorg Pöhlmann, Managing Director, Exped East

Mrs. Odilia de Ranitz, spouse of the Ambassador of the Netherlands and Hans Weber, Managing Partner FRYDAY Prague

Mr. Paul Hermans, spouse of the Ambassador of Belgium

Mrs. Tamar Newberger - Schapiro, spouse of the Ambassador of the United States

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ITALIAN NATIONAL DAY

From left: Dr. Giovanni Sciola, Director of the Italian Cultural Institute of Prague, H.E Aldo Amati, Ambassador of Italy in the Czech Republic, Bartolomeo Pietro Lamonarca, Deputy Head of Mission at the Italian Embassy in Prague, and Lieutenant Colonel Stefano Pensalfini, NATO - Defence Centre of Excellence in Vyškov

Celebrating the 70th Anniversary of the Italian Republic at the Italian Cultural Institute in Prague The traditional June 2 reception, hosted by the Italian Embassy in Prague at the Italian Cultural Institute, was attended by numerous Italian and Czech personalities and commemorated the 70th anniversary of the birth of the Italian Republic.

Ambassador Aldo Amati opened the reception by noting the excellent state of relations between Italy and the Czech Republic. After thanking the Czech Government for its efforts in promoting relations between the two countries, the Italian diplomat remarked that the best indications on the state of bilateral relations can be found in the Czech Republic’s support of Italy's candidacy to become a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council; in trade between the two countries, which has exceeded ten billion Euros; and in the triumphant concert of the Filarmonica della Scala which was held in Prague on April 15 of this year.

Ambassador Amati was echoed by Senator František Bublan, Chairman of the Committee on Foreign Affairs, Security and Defence of the Senate of the Czech Republic, who, while stressing the democratic values on which the Italian Republic is founded, recalled its genesis after the tragic period of fascism. The guests were also greeted by Petr Gazdík, Vice President of the Chamber of Deputies.

H.E. Mohamed Selim Hammami, Ambassador of Tunisia

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H.E. Ma Keqing, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China in the Czech Republic

From left: Oldřich Lomecký, Mayor of Prague 1, H.E. Aldo Amati, Ambassador of Italy in the Czech Republic, Bartolomeo Pietro Lamonarca, Deputy Head of Mission at the Italian Embassy in Prague, Dr. Giovanni Sciola, Director of the Italian Cultural Institute of Prague, Lieutenant Colonel Stefano Pensalfini, NATO - Defence Centre of Excellence in Vyškov

From left: Maestro Václav Hudeček and H.E. Aldo Amati, Ambassador of Italy in the Czech Republic

H. E. Pedro Calvo-Sotelo Ibáñez-Martín, Ambassador of Spain in the Czech Republic

From left: Alicja Huziuk, General Manager, Hotel Savoy, H.E Aldo Amati, Ambassador of Italy in the Czech Republic, Bartolomeo Pietro Lamonarca, Deputy Head of Mission at the Italian Embassy in Prague, and Dr. Giovanni Sciola, Director of the Italian Cultural Institute of Prague

ITALIAN NATIONAL DAY

H.E. Aldo Amati, Ambassador of Italy in the Czech Republic in his welcome speech with Petr Gazdík, Vice President of the Chamber of Deputies of the Czech Republic Senator František Bublan, Chairman of the Committee on Foreign Affairs, Security and Defence of the Senate of the Czech Republic.

From left: Petr Gazdík, Vice President of the Chamber of Deputies of the Czech Republic and H.E. Aldo Amati, Ambassador of Italy in the Czech Republic

Athos Rossi, Businessman

Three beautiful women enjoying Italian National Day

From left: Eugenio Bramerini, “The Address Idea” stylist, H.E. Aldo Amati, Ambassador of Italy in the Czech Republic, and Francesco Argenzio, Lawyer

From left: Dr. Gianfranco Pinciroli, President of the Italian-Czech Chamber of Commerce and Industry, H.E. Aldo Amati, Ambassador of Italy in the Czech Republic, and Antonio De Pari, Businessman, TEcnocap with his wife Blanka De Pari

Playing in the courtyard

Reception in the courtyard of the Italian Cultural Institute in Prague

73 Enjoying the Italian National Day

J effrey S iger

From lawyer to crime writer Murder mystery as never seen before…

Jeffrey Siger is an internationally known best-selling American author living on the Greek island of Mykonos. He swapped the world of law in New York City for the world of crime portrayed in his fast-paced mystery thrillers, confronting modern day Greece while touching upon its ancient past.

His stories spring to life through the investigative efforts of Chief Inspector Andreas Kaldis, a politically incorrect, honest observer of his times who endures and grows despite all that life and the powerful throw at him and his beloved country.

Corruption, crooked politicians, ancient rituals, drugs, religion, quest for justice – all that, and so much more, is present in all captivating and gripping stories exploring Greek life, crime, and politics as seen through the prism of Andreas’ role as Head of the Greek National Police Unit. With the help of the main character, they uncover and expose the most prominent cases in Greece.

We are seeking a potential television/film producer and investor to turn these exciting novels into an internationally televised mini-crime series set in the beautiful Aegean Islands that draw millions of tourists to their shores each year. If interested, please contact:

n.stripling@t-online.de …a very gifted American author...on a par with other American authors such as Joseph Wambaugh or Ed McBain.

Eurocrime Siger is one of those rare writers whose finger is always on the pulse of modern day upheavals. He is never afraid to tackle and expose uncomfortable subjects – subjects most writers avoid… a master story teller.

The New York Journal of Books

Thoughtful police procedurals set in picturesque but not untroubled Greek locales.

The New York Times

www.jeffreysiger.com

Are you intrigued and would you like to find out more?

The books are available in English on Amazon.com and http://www.nejlevnejsi-knihy.cz/ 74

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I nterview

Burnout…

Why you can’t afford to ignore this issue It’s always gratifying to read about a situation you predicted more than 4 years ago. It is also frustrating to realize not much has changed.

When I wrote Can You Afford to Ignore Me? one of the issues I pointed out is that women and millennial men and women entering the work force have always looked at work beyond compensation.

And, one of the contributing factors to cause them to walk away from their job was burnout, which implies a feeling of not seeing a future for themselves at their job based on the expectations and conditions associated with a 24/7 connectivity.

Many managers interpret this as laziness or lack of commitment, when in fact it is more about a desire to create a balanced life so they can contribute effectively to the workforce.

The data related to engagement in the US is clear – only 3 out of 10 employees are engaged at work. This impacts productivity, innovation and long term commitment to the organizations.

A recent article published in Fast Company magazine shows the following research: The trend of young women burning out by the age of 30 is very real and unfortunately common.

A study by McKinsey shows that women account for 53 % of corporate entrylevel jobs, but women only hold 37 % of mid-management roles. That number drops to 26 % for vice presidents and senior managers, indicating a major gender disparity higher up the corporate ladder. As only 11 % of women choose to leave the workplace permanently to have children, another reason for this gap can be traced to high expectations companies place on employees in always-connected work environments.

If you read closely, you see women DO NOT leave work due to family issues or parenting interests, they move or go into other business options because they are

feeling a high degree of demand on their time, all the while, looking at layoffs and downsizing.

The natural response is… Why am I doing this? I’m giving all of my time and how do I know if my efforts will be appreciated?

The same is true with millennials. Here you have a great quote that sums this scenario in a very insightful way; Melanie Shreffler formerly at Ypulse (currently the Senior Editorial Director, Cassandra Report) tells Forbes, "You can’t see the end of the tunnel because there are so many twists and turns. It’s impossible to see what life will be like in 20 years these days.

It’s hard to look just three to four years in the future. They don’t know what they are striving for, which makes it really hard to move forward."

We are transitioning into a new work style, and I think it’s more human and yields higher returns…Can you afford to ignore this?

By Elisabet Dennehy

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G ala E vening

Gala Evening

of Zlatá koruna Competition Winners of Zlatá Koruna competition

Zlatá koruna again awarded the prizes for the best financial products of the year. The awards were held for the fourteenth time already. The gala evening during which the prizes were awarded in all 19 categories took place in TOP HOTEL Praha, and was moderated by Marek Vašut and Michal Frabša. Among the 250 guests, the evening was attended by significant personalities of the Czech financial and insurance markets. The event took place traditionally under the auspices of the Minister of Finance, Andrej Babiš.

Pavel Doležal, Director, Zlatá koruna

Zdeňka Holakovská, Česká pojišťovna winner of the tipster competition

From left: Filip Král, Member of the Board, Kooperativa pojišťovna and Emil Šenkýř, Chairman of the Board, VŠFS

Lenka Palasová, Head of Deposit, Transaction Banking and Innovation Department, AirBank and Martin Vambera, Director, Rumako

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Markéta Sodomková, Project Manager CSR, Česká spořitelna and Robert Szurman, State Secretary, Ministry of Industry and Trade

From left: Richard Siuda, Member of the Board, Conseq and Pavel Kafka, President, CMA

Paweł Kucharski, General Director, mBank

From left: Helena Krištofová, Strategy and Development Manager, AirBank and Jitka Kudláčková, Owner, JK Jitka Kudláčková

Tomáš Vaníček, Deputy General Manager and Member of the Board, Pojišťovna České spořitelny

From left: Henrieta Arslanová, Marketing Director, Equa Bank, Jakub Pavel, Retail Banking Director, Equa Bank, and Pavel Doležal, Director, Zlatá koruna

Giovanni Guidi, Member of the Board and Director Retail and Private Banking Department, UniCredit

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I nterview

Jan Koukal

and his three (extra) ordinary lives Former Mayor of Prague, ambassador, and university lecturer used to attend prestigious conferences in Davos during previous regime. As a former physicist, he still tends to relax while working out equations and reading expert studies in Europhysics News. Even though he is not a diplomat anymore, he still represents the Czech Republic at the well-known International Institute of Applied System Analysis. What made him come back to Czech politics and run for the Senate in the fall elections?

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I nterview I had to learn not only Russian and English, but also French and German. And from the time being in the Mayor’s office, I had the appropriate network, including friendship with the Mayor of Brussels.

Jan Koukal as a Mayor of Prague with H.M. Queen Elisabeth II, Queen of the United Kingdom

How do you recall your first extraordinary life in politics?

I must say that I entered politics by chance. One evening, my neighbour knocked on my door looking for someone with university education and academic titles to present at the election ballot. I agreed provided I would come last.

And the rest of my story was summarised in the introduction. Being a scientist, I truly enjoyed working on systemic level changes with regards to a new strategy and municipal administration. We recreated the democratic system and despite the intense level of privatisation, there were no big scandals during my term.

When looking back at your career as a Mayor, what do you consider the biggest achievement?

I am proud of the restoration of the Municipal House in Prague. I was pleased to see how newly restored companies with pre-war traditions were interested in carrying out the work. All firms involved were truly proud to participate in such an important symbolic project. And now we can enjoy the Municipal House shining in the Slavic Art Nouveau style.

Now, let us move to the next stage of your career – the diplomatic one, first in Brussels.

As with my political career, I was hesitant at first.

However, after six years in politics it was almost impossible to go back to advanced science. But the entry of the Czech Republic to the EU represented another systemic level change and I got the offer to lead the Prague House – the representation of the city of Prague in Brussels. Again, I had the opportunity to create something new – relationships with the European Parliament, with the Commission, find partnerships etc.

During this period, I appreciated the skills I had acquired as a theoretical scientist, this time particularly associated with the knowledge of languages. Due to the fact that the textbooks for my specialised discipline were not translated,

And how was the journey from Brussels to Vienna as a destination that is regarded as the top and final for the diplomatic career?

When I came to Vienna, I had to deal with two issues. The first one being nuclear power plant Temelín, the second one being, for an Austrian politician and “Sudetendeutschen” organisations, the controversial Beneš decrees. With regards to the former, my background in physics represented a great advantage, particularly for television and radio debates. I also made use of contacts from my period as a Mayor. The former Mayor of Vienna, Mr. Zilk, had close family ties to the Czech Republic and he was very helpful with regards to strategic documents, such as the housing policy etc. The current Mayor of Vienna, Mr. Michael Häupl, is a chemist by profession and we have been friends for many years. Therefore, I could concentrate on crucial bilateral issues as well as on the support of the Czech community abroad. The Czech community in Vienna has a long and significant history, since Vienna was the city with the largest Czech population in 1905.

You liked Vienna so much that in fact you have never left…

I am still active at the International Institute of Applied System Analysis. The institute addresses issues pertinent to mankind, such as energy, food supply, water supply or diversity of various parts of population. There are people of various professions and backgrounds involved – diplomats, Nobel Prize winners, professors, CEOs and also entrepreneurs. Czechoslovakia was a founding country, but the Czech Republic has left the institution with regards to the budget cuts in 1990s. I am glad that my participation enables other Czech citizens to attend conferences as well as keep in touch with the latest research and trends.

Now let us discuss the current phase of your life – you being an entrepreneur and a candidate for Senate.

My father had started a family enterprise but it was primarily my brother who helped him during my active career in politics. Together, we employ approximately 100 people in several enterprises and naturally we feel a great responsibility. As my father was a biologist and a chemist, he held several patents. We started to produce chemicals designed to protect wood, later we added machinery and now even electronics and cryogen techniques, which is my specialisation. It is our advantage that we do not sell our products either to politicians or to municipalities. After my father died, I decided to help my brother.

So what brings you back to politics?

Despite the fact that I am busy with the enterprise and lecturing at the university, I just cannot sit in the pub and criticise current affairs. I have eight grandchildren and so I feel the need to hand the country to them in a better condition.

It is not enough to be critical and write an article from time to time. I am an independent candidate supported by the Party of Entrepreneurs of the Czech Republic, a conservative and moderate right wing party. In case of being elected to the Senate, firstly I would like to focus on foreign policy. I have a feeling that nowadays, both deputies and senators like to travel to get to know foreign lands but the overall strategy design to protect interests of our state is lacking.

The second area I would like to cover is the legal order and its notorious complications. I personally see how obstructed I am by nonsense laws and regulations and I sense in certain aspects as if totalitarian regime with the presumption of guilt rather than innocence returned. Just very recently, there was a novelisation of the law restricting freedom of gathering, since the Police can nowadays dissolve any gathering merely at their own discretion. However, it took 200 years of fights to get this freedom. Therefore, I will try to nullify many laws. I wish we returned to the

Jan Koukal as a Mayor of Prague with Václav Havel, former President of the Czech Republic and H.E. Juan Carlos I., former King of Spain

very beliefs that started with the Velvet Revolution – more freedom and truth. It makes me sad to see that the opposition is currently quite weak and so the inevitable democratic process of check and balances is at stake.

And your final words to Czech and Slovak Leaders readers?

Thank you for your patience. I wish to all of us more wisdom and less emotions during decision-making moments including in the fall elections. Of course I would like to be elected to make sure I can start working on my vision.

However, if it is not me who is elected, I wish all the success to a candidate who is better and has a more articulated vision and programme.

By Linda Štucbartová české znění naleznete v elektronické verzi magazínu na www.czechleaders.com

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS III/2016

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A mbassadors W ithout D iplomatic P assports

Global Summit on Corporate S ustainability

B ringing the W orld to P rague B ecause T here I s N o T ime to W aste

Imagine a conference where major experts and representatives from government, corporations, SMEs and start ups as well as NGOs meet to discuss common responsibility and actions to be taken to improve the lives of population coming from all over the world as well as from the Czech Republic. The issues debated and suggested do not concern projects and populations in faraway countries of Africa and Asia, but specific projects are shared that make a difference to people in the Czech Republic, such as the case of SAP and its Autism at Work initiative.

Imagine a conference that takes place not at an expensive five-star hotel, but in inspirational premises of the National Gallery.

Imagine a conference where panels are gender balanced; in many cases the organisers actually had to look for men to participate.

Imagine a conference, where the key note speaker, Dr. Tererai Trent, is the one of the most internationally recognised voices for quality education and women’s empowerment and the one of the most popular guests of Oprah Winfrey.

Imagine a conference that serves vegetarian food to reduce carbon footprint, has music entertainment during the breaks and visual recordings to remind attendees of key messages.

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A mbassadors W ithout D iplomatic P assports Meet the woman who made it all possible on May 4, 2016 in Prague. It is a pleasure to introduce you to Lucie Mádlová, the Global Compact Network Czech Republic Representative and Executive Director of the Association of Social Responsibility.

Lucie, how do you perceive today’s world?

It is wonderful how many opportunities and how much beauty we can enjoy in today’s world. It is beyond comprehension that we do not appreciate what is given, and by excessive, rakish consumption and unsustainable behaviour we are destroying lives of future generations. The more we have, the more we desire. We buy things we do not need, we are destroying natural resources, and our behaviour has a substantial impact on climate change. The data is more than worrying. More than a billion people does not have access to drinking water, while to many of us it literally trickles through our fingers. Three billion kilograms of food are wasted annually, while more than 795 million people are suffering from starvation. We are going to theatres to see disaster movies, not admitting to ourselves we might watch a harsh reality of upcoming days, unless we reconsider our unsustainable behaviour.

Linda´s purpose is to unleash potential in individuals and organizations. She enjoys bringing expertise and synergy to corporate, non-profit, academic and public spheres. In ATAIRU, she leads leadership programs for women and transformational programs for boards. She is a senior lecturer at the Anglo-American University. Linda holds degrees from the Oxford University, Geneva Institute of International Relations and Université Lyon III. Linda is married, lives in Prague and has two children. result of a collaboration of not only the UN member states, but also representatives of civil society, private sector, and academia of all continents.

So, at the Summit Global Compact 2030, we did want to demonstrate to the private sector that SDGs bring opportunities for contributions to not only a better and sustainable future, but also for new investments.

How do you perceive the role of the Czech Republic?

Regarding sustainability we are barely scratching the surface. We still have plenty of room for improvements and for inspiration from more developed countries. Our recent study showed that in the interest of sustainability people of the Czech Republic mostly save energy, avoid wasting food, save tap water, and sort waste. The study also confirmed that in comparison to 2013, people are more engaged in global issues in general. In addition, the data shows that 4 out of 5 Czechs think the government should be involved in reaching new Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and 3 out of 4 would also include the private sector. It should be mentioned that a young, emerging generation is the one most interested in those topics which fit into its lifestyle. I consider it a positive trend; young people are not selfish, they are considerate and thoughtful, which is a great opportunity for employers. Young people want to work for a society which shares the same values, and social responsibility of their potential employer is a crucial criteria for many of them.

The gender equality is one of the 17 goals, implied in many others. Are you in favour of quotas or do you suggest another approach for companies? And how do you see the fact that women often do not support women?

Women in the Czech Republic, on average, earn 22% less than men in the same occupation. More than 95% of CEOs of global corporations are men.

Current projections show women will not have the same economic opportunities as their male counterparts until 2096. Certainly, something must be done about this. However, I am not sure whether the quotas are the best solution. In recent years companies themselves set ambitious goals to support equality of opportunity within their organisations and within their respective countries. And they are starting to realise that their investments into equality are returning.

For example, in 2015 the leading management of Unilever consisted of, for the first time in history, mainly female managers. This is supported by a whole range of global campaigns advocating gender equality in a workplace such as HeForShe or UN Women. The campaign urges men to speak out against any form of discrimination or violence against women in their workplace or in their private life. Many significant figures and representatives – men – of the private and the public sector from all over the world are actively supporting the initiative.

How does it happen that you manage to bring attention to the topics of corporate sustainability to the Czech Republic, to the country where population believes it’s primarily government’s responsibility to fulfil Sustainability Development Goals?

New Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were unanimously adopted by the UN member states (including the Czech Republic) in September 2015 with the objective to build a better future for everyone. SDGs clearly sets a direction for upcoming 15 years, leading to eradication of poverty, to a struggle with inequality, and to security of our planet. The wording of SDGs is a

Being able to witness your energy and dedication, and knowing that you are a mother of a 4-year-old daughter, what is your approach to work-life balance?

Honestly, work-life balance is one of the few things I struggle to get under control. I take work home with me, I go to sleep thinking about it and I am waking up with it. On the top of that I share an office with my husband, so our private life and our work life are fairly blended to a certain extent. And even when we find a moment only for ourselves, we manage to come up with new, interesting ideas, especially in the evening while having a bath or before falling asleep. Even

though recently I feel like I am so exhausted I fall asleep even before we say goodnight. Mia was 8 months old when I founded the association.

I worked during a part of a day she was sleeping, and then overnight. Now, she goes to a preschool but I am trying my best to spend some quality time with her whenever I can. Moreover, we devote Fridays only to ourselves, spending some good chunk of time together.

What are your final words for Czech and Slovak Leaders readers?

The way to sustainability is in our common interest. SDGs bring the most solid plan to date for new companies to find opportunities regarding the challenges of a modern society. And we are not talking charity here. Effective inclusion of sustainability into a business strategy requires a serious commitment. Cooperation is also vital. Companies must understand that cooperation – even with their competitors – is necessary, followed by common investment into common goals, facing systemic challenges. As one African proverb says: If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together.

By Linda Štucbartová, external collaborator of Czech & Slovak Leaders magazine

UN Global Compact is the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative. It has 13 000 signatories, works at 160 countries and operates 85 local networks. It encourages companies to align strategies and operations with universal principles on human rights, labour, environment and anti-corruption, and take actions that advances societal goals. Since 2015, the Global Compact Network Czech Republic has been active in engaging both local firms and subsidiaries of foreign corporations engaged in the Global Compact with respect to implementation of the ten principles, while also creating opportunities for sharing knowledge, learning, collective action and partnership.

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A mbassadors W ithout D iplomatic P assports

I feel a passionate responsibility

to educate the next generation I met Adam Stewart, the Artistic Director of Prague Youth Theatre (PYT), after the play “Empty Hands” made it to Prague media headlines this spring. A shortened version of the play was chosen to compete for the highest Czech theatre award “Student Thalia”.

'Empty Hands' by Adam Stewart explores the Holocaust in Czechoslovakia and Terezin through the eyes of Jewish, Czech and German children. It aims not only to discuss the dark past of European history, but also to serve as a warning to the modern day political situation in the world.

Like many people associated with theatre, Adam is a modest introvert. However, I believe he truly represents the Ambassadors Without Diplomatic Passports with his PYT work bringing together Czech and international students. He often presents current issues which transcend borders. These issues prepare students for real life situations.

In addition, Adam is presenting Czech culture to foreign audiences, by being a member of the highly successful cast of the English play “Záskok” at the famous Czech Jára Cimrman Theatre.

For my interview with this actor, director, playwright, and entrepreneur, I chose a format based on Joseph Campbell´s Hero´s Journey. This method works well for most successful plays and stories.

How do you perceive today’s world?

Sadly I do not perceive the world particularly fondly at the moment. Brexit, the possibility of a President Trump and what seems to be a rise in racism across Europe and the rest of the world is terrifying to say the least. As a youth theatre leader I feel a passionate responsibility to educate the next generation in order for them to change the future. It’s naïve to think that Prague Youth Theatre can impact the world as a whole but if the young people who work with us enter adulthood wiser, more open minded and tolerant of others then we will have succeeded in a small way.We have been very lucky at PYT to have been able to offer our students international theatre exchanges and competitions. Our students have visited Ireland and Croatia to take part in theatre workshops and we have been visited by the same groups and a group from Serbia. Every year we take part in a theatre competition with youth theatres from France, Russia and the UK here in Prague. These international exchanges offer the opportunity for our students to meet with like-minded individuals and get a better understanding of different cultures, faiths, social backgrounds and language. I believe it is important for young people to be aware of the world outside of their school, family, town and country and the opportunities we offer at Prague Youth Theatre enforce that message.

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How do you perceive the position of the Czech Republic?

I have lived in the Czech Republic for 11 years now and I have seen many changes in that time. From an improvement in the choice of cuisine to a more tolerant and progressive society. I call Prague my home now and although the Czech Republic has its problems like any country, I find the Czech people to be warm, open-minded and liberal thinking. Coming from a ‘nanny state’ as I do, it is refreshing to live in a country that allows you to make mistakes without being wrapped in cotton wool. I’m concerned at the moment with some of Zeman’s recent Trumpesque comments but as I said before I believe this is mainly

A mbassadors W ithout D iplomatic P assports due to a rise in racism across Europe. I have been heartened by the number of anti-racism rallies that have taken place in the city and hope to see that continue. Over the last two years I have been lucky enough to play the role of Bárta in the first official English performance of Jára Cimrman’s The Stand-In (Záskok) and this has given me a huge insight into the Czech Republic and the mentality of the Czech people.

If you were to write a play about your higher calling according to Joseph Campbell´s Hero´s Journey, what was your “call to adventure”?

My call to action was simply that I needed a job.

I am a trained drama teacher and had taught for five years at the English International School, Prague. It was time for a new challenge but job offers overseas were not forthcoming. I had been part of a number of youth theatres growing up and had loved the social aspect as well as the rehearsals and performances. So I thought ‘why not start a youth theatre in Prague?’. There were no English speaking youth theatres at that time so I set up a website, found a venue and we performed our first shows in December 2011. Now PYT has become much more than a job and my call to adventure now is to grow the student base and continue to perform high quality drama.

Let us move to the next stage, when mentors play an important role. What role have they played?

Mentors have played a big part in my life. As a student I was trained by some inspirational teachers and youth theatre leaders who instilled in me my passion for the theatre. I learnt a lot about life and the world around me through experiences with youth theatres and many of my lifelong friendships resulted from theatres groups that I was part of. My biggest influence was a teacher/director who ran a youth theatre in my home town that I was part of for many years. In many ways the ethos of Prague Youth Theatre and my style of teaching has come from what I learnt while part of her company. Redford School of Speech and Drama was more than a theatre company, it was a family and I spent much of my social time with the other members of the group. The director had very high standards of performance and we produced some very professional productions.

One thing that irks me as a youth theatre director is if audience members leave saying "that was good for kids". It is my goal that when audiences see PYT shows they leave thinking "what a professional show that was", "the acting was excellent". Youth Theatre can be extremely powerful and a high quality of performance is what we always strive for no matter what the age.

The next stage is about tests, allies and enemies… With PYT being so successful and established, have you passed this stage or are there some blocks still ahead?

Thankfully over the last five years PYT has consistently grown and evolved to what it is today. We now have over 150 children and young people who take our classes and we have a number of

Linda´s purpose is to unleash potential in individuals and organizations. She enjoys bringing expertise and synergy to corporate, non-profit, academic and public spheres. In ATAIRU, she leads leadership programs for women and transformational programs for boards. She is a senior lecturer at the Anglo-American University. Linda holds degrees from the Oxford University, Geneva Institute of International Relations and Université Lyon III. Linda is married, lives in Prague and has two children. leaders and administration staff who continue to enable us to expand. The biggest hurdle we face as a company now is how to manage our expansion to ensure that the young people and families that we work with continue to receive the highest level of drama education. This takes many forms… extra spaces, more staff, improving communication with families and ensuring that our performances continue to be to a professional standard. When PYT began we had 20 young people and I was able to teach every group and build relationships with all the students. As we grow it is my job to make sure that every child receives the same level of care as they would have had when we began.

Although Prague Youth Theatre has so far been a success I still have concerns about the perception of youth theatre, in particular drama, in mainstream education. In the UK certainly less and less emphasis is being placed on the arts, particularly drama. In many schools across the UK drama is being stripped from the curriculum in favor of core subjects. Theatre in schools is becoming more and more elitist as can be seen by the current rise of UK public school actors making it big in Hollywood. During a parent meeting a few years ago while I was working at the English International School a parent asked me "why does my child have to do drama, they don’t want to be an actor" and I replied that drama in schools is hugely important for a child’s education. Drama teaches confidence, discipline, organization, to name a few and all of those skills are hugely important for life but also for any career a child chooses to follow. I have never written a CV without including the life skills that drama has taught me.

We’re very lucky at PYT that parents see the benefits of a drama education and we often receive very positive feedback about how much children grow in confidence during their time with us.

Reward and coming back with the elixir is the final stage of the journey. Have you found one?

Yes. I’m rewarded every time I watch our students at PYT perform. As an actor I used to love the applause at the end of a performance however as a theatre director of young people it is far more rewarding for me to see the admiration that they receive from an audience. The performance is the objective but the journey that the students take to prepare for the performance is hard work, emotional and at times frustrating. We see young people at PYT growing in confidence and as actors and seeing them receiv-

ing applause is one of the reasons why I love my job.

One of the projects that I am the most proud of is "Empty Hands". This is a play that I wrote 5 years ago that tells the story of a young Czech Jewish girl who is taken to Terezin. The story examines how joy can be found even in the darkest of times and the play celebrates the resilience of the human spirit. My colleagues and Prague Youth Theatre supporter Judi Challiner are currently working on rewriting the play and developing a school curriculum to accompany it. Our goal is to publish the finished play, with accompanying curriculum and original music composed by David Talacko. We hope to promote this to schools across Europe to educate them not only about the Holocaust but also as a lesson to current and future generations of tolerance, acceptance and understanding.

We discussed that your plays tend to have open ending and certainly you avoid happy endings. “Theater is there to search for questions. It doesn't give you instructions.”

The plays that our older students perform tend to be issue based dramas. Besides the most recent "Empty Hands" we have tackled issues such as domestic violence or child trafficking. As I said before I believe it is our responsibility at Prague Youth Theatre to prepare young people for the world in all its good and bad. Rehearsing and performing plays that deal with issues that young people face enables students to ask questions, find answers or research the themes raised in the plays. Theatre is a great way for young people to learn and explore ideas in a safe, relaxed and fun environment.

What are your final words to Czech and Slovak Leaders readers?

Come and check out one of our performances in December. We pride ourselves on the professionalism of our productions and the quality is consistently high. Or if you have children, sign them up. Term begins on Saturday, 3rd September. More information can be found on our website www.pyt.cz.

If you’re interested in seeing Jára Cimrman in English please visit the Žižkovské divadlo website at http://www.zdjc.cz.

By Linda Štucbartová, external collaborator of Czech & Slovak Leaders magazine

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS III/2016

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M iroton

16 th annual MIROTON – R unning 11 th J une 2016

for

A rt ,

MIRO G allery and the T rebbia F oundation in cooperation with P rague I nternational M arathon and S trahov M onastery G eneral partner : L indner H otel P rague C astle S upported by : A sklepion – C linic and I nstitute of A esthetic M edicine L ength

of the

MIROTON

route :

3.365

metres

T he winners received graphic works from R. L eszczynski , G. S tojanov , M. Š árovec , J. S kalník , V. V ětrovský , and A. F orsterová

the following artists :

16th annual MIROTON was started by Oldřich Lomecký, Mayor of Prague 1 Municipal District

Eliška Coolidge-Hašková, former Office Director for Public Relations of five American presidents handing over the prize to Lucie Fialová, one of the winners in the women category

From left: The winners in the men category Antonín Rector, time 11,53 min (second); Jiří Čivrný, time 11,24 min (first); and Roman Šmucler waiting to present the prize to the winner of the third place (Robert Čepek, time 12,03 min; third) who went to have a second run instead

From left: The winners in women category Lenka Šibravová, time 14,03 min (second); Kamila Gregorová, time 12,11 min (first); Lucie Fialová, time 14,58 min (third) From left: Milan Ležák, Photojournalist, and Miro Smolák, founder of Miroton - Running for Art

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Ulf Landeberg, General Manager of Lindner Hotel Prague Castle (general partner of Miroton) presenting a special prize to Katarína Třísková, time 15,27 min; who came in fourth (weekend at Lindner Hotel for two people)

Vladislav Stanko, Director of European Institute, handing over a special prize to the winners

From left: Jaromír Schling, former Minister of Transport of the Czech Republic, and Lukáš Semorád, Personal Coach at BodyBody studio, reaching the finish line.

Veronika Blažková, Head of the Press Office of Prague 1 Municipal District, Oldřich Lomecký, Mayor of Prague 1 Municipal District, Ulf Landeberg, General Manager of Lindner Hotel Prague Castle

Zuzana Tančaková, Manager of Hilton Hotel Prague, Ulf Landeberg, General Manager of Lindner Hotel Prague Castle

From left: Oldřich Lomecký, Mayor of Prague 1, Karel Srb senior, Founder of Jazzová sekce - Artforum, Vladimír Drábek, Prague International Marathon

From left: Miloš Jaro, Owner of Miloš Jaro Agency Prague, Jan Lešták, Owner of Eye Clinic JL Prague

From left: Růžena Nechanská, Businesswoman, Nikol Lenertová, TV Presenter and Singer

From left: Benke Aikell, your Publisher, Jose Miguel, Artistic Director of Le Palais Art Hotel Prague

Alena Miro, Opera Singer with little Sofia (five-month-old puppy)

Lenka Kudravá, Attorney-at-law in Slovakia, Jan Lešták, Owner of Eye Clinic JL Prague

From left: Nina Maton, Student of marketing from France and intern at MIRO Gallery at the time; Miro Smolák, Founder of Miroton - Running for Art; Peyton Howard, Student from USA and intern at MIRO Gallery at the time

Members of the band New Prague Dixieland played for good spirits

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85

An

interview with

H.E. I vana H lavsová , A mbassador

to

S erbia

Good Diplomats Are Looking for Challenges Even at Easy Times I was looking forward to using the opportunity of accompanying my husband as a spouse to Belgrade to interview H.E. Ivana Hlavsová whom I consider one of the most expert and also universalist career diplomats I have ever met. Flying to Belgrade with Air Serbia on ATR 72 already made me nostalgic and reminded me of my diplomatic travels to Luxembourg, since it was operated by the same type of aircraft. But I was curious to hear about the more substantial changes that have taken place in diplomacy in recent years, besides the fact that most travels have become more comfortable. The nostalgic mood continued when I was in Belgrade. Friendly, welcoming people, language and culture similar to ours, I remembered not only my trips to former Yugoslavia but also my studies and research about pan-Slavism.

So the second issue of Slavic brotherhood became imminent given the expert background of Mrs. Hlavsová and her profound knowledge of the region. Regular readers would have probably guessed by now that leadership and women in diplomacy represented the last topic discussed.

Mrs. Ivana Hlavsová originally graduated from the Czech Technical University in Prague. After her experience in private sector, she joined the foreign relations department of the Office of the President in 1992; since 1993 she has been working at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Throughout her diplomatic career, she was appointed to several leading position in various sections and departments at the MFA. Her career journey so perfectly demonstrates how versatile and changing diplomatic service can become. She led the Diplomatic Protocol department, became the General Consul in Los Angeles, then director of the Americas’ Department; later she was appointed the executive director of the Czech Task Force for the NATO Summit

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in Prague, and was also leading the whole Personnel Section of the Ministry, was an ambassador to Slovenia, director of the South and Southeast Europe department and in January 2014, she was appointed as the Ambassador to Serbian Republic.

She speaks three foreign languages fluently and can communicate in Serbian.

Mrs. Hlavsová, you will celebrate 25 years in diplomacy next year. That truly confirms the saying that diplomacy is not a just an ordinary profession, that it is a life mission.

Looking back, if someone had mentioned to me before 1992 that I would dedicate my life to diplomacy, I would not have believed it. On the other hand, such a change depicts the fate of many people of my generation. I studied at the university in early 1980s and I opted for the technical background because the humanities were very much ideologically influenced by the communist regime. So the specialisation “Automated Control Systems” seemed a good choice. After the Velvet Revolution, I started to work on joint projects with an Austrian company but I found difficult to balance my career with the care of two small children. It was by coincidence that I saw and advert for a position at the foreign department of the Office of the President. Since I spoke three foreign languages, I decided to give it a go. I was hoping to visit Prague Castle and perhaps have a glimpse of Václav Havel, but nothing more. To my surprise, I received a cable from the post office about me being accepted. So I started in 1992, but soon after the elections came which heralded the dissolution of Czechoslovakia and led to Václav Havel’s stepping down from the office. My boss at the time, Alexandr Vondra became the First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and so I followed him to the Czernin Palace. Even at that time, I was still considering a diplomatic career as a temporary issue. But as you mentioned, next year, I will celebrate 25 years being in the foreign service. The beginnings were fascinating and challenging at the same time. At the age of 33, I was the Director of the Diplomatic Protocol Department, the very post often reserved to the most senior ranking male ambassadors. At that time, there were only two women on the same position in the whole Europe – my colleague from Sweden and I. You mentioned how fascinating the period of the first decade of the Czech foreign policy was. Within a decade, we managed to enter NATO, the EU and organise the NATO Summit in 2002 that was the unprecedented multilateral event ever held in the Czech Republic.

But now, the diplomacy has become much

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS III/2016

more “ordinary” business as usual. How do you reflect on such change?

Looking back, we have managed incredibly fast to fulfill the strategic goals that we set up in early nineties. In addition to the entry to NATO in 1999 and entry to the EU in 2004, we should not forget entry into the Schengen zone in 2007 and the EU Presidency in 2009. So it might seem that we have achieved the goals. We have had other goals since then, but they might not be perceived as spectacular when compared to those already mentioned.

We have had to define our position both in NATO and in the EU, and also on the level of international community as such. The world is changing and we have to continue to learn how to face new challenges, such as terrorism. This work is ongoing.

Overall, the fact that the so-called “existence” substantial issues are lacking means that they have been fulfilled and that is very positive fact. As we see new threats coming on the horizon, I am not afraid that the life and work of diplomats would be dull and boring in any way.

You had been ambassador to Slovenia, now you are in Serbia. What brought you to the region of Southeast Europe?

You mentioned yourself that diplomacy is a civil service and the possibility to choose a country or a region exists but it is limited especially on the ambassadorial level. So again, it was a coincidence in the beginning. I opted for Slovenia both for professional and family reasons as I preferred a destination in Europe. I experienced EU Presidency of Slovenia in 2008, followed by the Czech Presidency of the EU in 2009. So again, it was quite a unique mo-

ment. Then I became in charge of department of the South and South East Europe; just to explain, it means covering the region all the way from Belgium and France to Turkey, with the Balkans in between. After four years, there was a possibility to go and serve in Serbia. For a professional diplomat, it is an extremely interesting country, since it is on its way to fulfill strategic and economic goals and it is also a key player in the Balkan region.

Now, you being very familiar with the region, how do you see the issue of Slavic brotherhood? Is the saying that “A Slav has a brother everywhere” still valid or did pan-Slavism die at the end of the 19th century?

Let me point out that my answers will be specific with regards to South Slavs and their relations to the Czech Republic. I have experienced Slovenia as well as Serbia, I have travelled elsewhere in the Balkans and I confirm special ties exist between the Czechs and south Slavic nations, including the Croats, Bosnians and Montenegrins. It is hard to say whether it is more due to shared history or it comes from ethnic roots. My personal observation is that ties from past are still considerably influencing current relations. Greater part of the Balkans used to be a part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and I see many personal and family ties that translate into mental ones. The Czechs and Slovenians used to be particularly close as they were the only two Slavic nations in the Austrian part of the Monarchy. Last but not least, language similarity plays a considerable role in easier mutual understanding. The case of Serbia was totally different, but they also played an important role. As Serbs gained their independence already in the 19th century and so together with the Montenegrins they were regarded a symbol of Slavic fight for independence in the Czech lands. The answer to your original question perhaps got more complicated but the fact is that there are no easy and straightforward answers in the Balkans.

You touched on the importance of historical roots that were supported by intensive diplomatic ties during the first Czechoslovak Republic. How much were the relations affected by the wars during 1990s?

The answer to your question is linked exactly to the excellent diplomatic relations with the countries of the so-called Small Entente, an alliance formed by Czechoslovakia, Yugoslavia and Romania in 1920 and 1922, further supported by France in bilateral treaties. It is no wonder that the exquisite and large building that our embassy is located in dates back to 1920s and together with embassies in Bucharest and Paris, these buildings belong to the most beautiful representative buildings we have ever had. This very fact shows the importance of the mutual relations that lasted until the World War II. Following the relationship built throughout the 19th century, many Czech and Slovak artists, architects, engineers visited the region and continued fostering mutual relationships that went far beyond the horizon of the top political and diplomatic relations. The importance of the Small Entente might have been forgotten in the Czech Republic; however, it is still very well remembered and recognised here. The next historical moments are represented by the Velvet Revolution and also by the Velvet Divorce, both of the events highly valued given the violent fate of the region in 1990s. The consequences of the conflicts, not only political, but also economical can be still witnessed until today. The overall frustration and despair over the lost decade is still present. However, back to bilateral relations, as they were built on the solid foundations, they continue to be very positive.

We touched upon all similarities and common shared history. The Czech Republic is a proud partner to support Serbia in reaching strategic goals, particularly joining the EU.

Last but not least, this question will touch upon the issue of women in diplomacy. You mentioned that in the early stage of your career, there were the only two women on the position of the Director of the Protocol.

How is the current situation at the Czech Ministry of Foreign Affairs?

I regard this question to be the most difficult of those you have asked. For twenty years, since I have been in the leading positions at the Ministry, I have been interested in this issue. I did my own statistics with regards to the number of women at the top positions, such as General Consuls or Ambassadors.

We have not managed to exceed considerably the steady number settled at around ten percent.

The trend of the so called “leaking pipeline” that is known from the corporate world is also present in the public service. Women still make up 50% or even more at the Diplomatic Academy, which is the entry level to the Ministry. To be fair, diplomacy is more difficult for women at the early stage of their career when they are having children. Even though we made sure that maternity leave period would be counted as a period of work according to the Career Code that determines promotions. Greater interest of young women in entering diplomacy is also due to the fact that diplomacy is a part of state service administration which guarantees a stable and steady income. Several years ago a kindergarten was opened at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and we managed to introduce “job-sharing” to offer part-time work for women returning from maternity leave. So, overall the situation is improving. What is interesting to mention is that there are more women in leading positions in the public service in the Balkan region. This might be one area where the region can be inspiring for us.

By Linda Štucbartová české znění naleznete v elektronické verzi magazínu na www.czechleaders.com

From left: Tomislav Nikolić, President of Serbia and H.E. Ivana Hlavsová, Ambassador of the Czech Republic to Serbia

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P ersonal

enlightenment

Life Is Beautiful Part III: Your Amazing Brain!1,2

James A. Cusumano, PhD “The human brain has 100 billion neurons, each neuron connected to 10 thousand other neurons. Sitting on your shoulders is the most complicated object in the known universe”.

Michio Kaku

Mark Waldman and Andrew Newberg are a talented team of neuroscientists, who have taken complex findings in brain science and made them understandable for non-scientists.

Waldman has written more than 12 books on consciousness and its intersection with neurobiology. He summarizes his overall findings by saying that “Life is simple, and satisfaction is easy to attain, but the human mind is blind to this fundamental truth (Figure 1).” As we shall see, there is a good reason for this blindness. However, the brain can be taught to “open its eyes” when necessary to achieve happiness and fulfillment.

I would like to share with you 10 important findings that Waldman has distilled from his research efforts with Newberg.1,2,3,4 1. Your experience is not the true reality that exists outside of your mind.

I have discussed this extensively in a number of prior articles. Waldman points out that one of the reasons for this inaccurate view of reality is that our five senses gather information from the outside world in a way that enhances our chances for survival.

As species became more complex through the evolutionary process, they develop an increased number of sensory organs. Consider the 3.5 billion year evolutionary path from bacteria to humankind. For example, our eyes react to light waves in our environment which in turn activate the color cones in our retina. This information is 1 2

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then sent to the visual cortex in our brains where something we call color is encoded with certain names, e.g., red, blue, green, for later identification and use. However, there are no colors in the real world, just an infinite number of vibrations in the electromagnetic energy spectrum. Interestingly, the part of our brain where we “see” the world is in our frontal cortex and only minimal information is sent to it by our visual centers. As Waldman states, “What we see is more like a movie that blends light waves and sound waves and inner emotional experiences into a story that is far removed from the reality that actually exists. All neuroscientists agree with this premise, which is why they love to study optical illusions.”

2. Consciousness is created in the brain the moment we wake up and voluntarily move our body.

I have a somewhat different view on this point, but the outcome is the same. From my studies, I believe your Personal Consciousness (You might call it your soul.) is infinite and eternal and it creates your mind, not the converse. Thus, your mind becomes aware of your existing consciousness the moment you wake up and voluntarily move your body. This point is related to what neuroscientists and philosophers call the “hard problem,” namely, explaining the relationship between physical phenomena such as those processes which occur in your brain with your experiences of consciousness. Scientists know that dopamine, a pleasure neurotransmitter, is released in the motivational center located deep within what has become known as your “ancient brain” (Figure 2). This neurotransmitter stimulates an area in your frontal lobe, just above your eyes and makes you aware of the outside world. If the stimuli—sight, smell, sound, touch—are pleasurable, then this sense of consciousness, which is believed to occur in all mammals and many other organisms, entices you towards the object of concern. However, if it is threatening or unpleasurable in any way, then your pain centers are activated and you retreat from the stimuli.

3. A single neuron has qualities of human consciousness.

Now this is truly amazing! Noble laureate Eric Kandel showed that a single nerve cell from a sea slug can be trained to be curious about its environment. To do this, the slug grows more dendrites

Figure 1: Life is beautiful and simple to control, but our human mind is naturally blind to this fact. It can be trained to overcome this evolutionary remnant.

and axons from the neuron body, which allows the cell to send and receive many more messages between it and neighboring cells. A single neuron can store these messages in its “memory.” If, for some reason, it is traumatized by its environment, it retracts its dendrites and axons to demonstrate its “fear.” Thus, even a single neuron nerve cell is capable of demonstrating pleasurable motivation, anxiety and fear.

4. Normal consciousness can only hold about four “chunks” of information in its working memory for a brief period of time.

To clarify, I believe your Personal Consciousness can hold nearly an infinite amount of information.

However, that miniscule part of your Personal Consciousness which is accessed by your mind is much more limited, unless trained to do otherwise.

Most of us believe that at any given time, we are conscious of hundreds of physical things in our environment—colors, sounds, movement, our goals, etc. In truth, Waldman and Newberg find we are only capable of being simultaneously cognizant of a few chunks of information, where a single word is a chunk. Thus it is nearly impossible to recall a sentence, which has more than eight words. Can you recall any of the previous sentences? Sure, you can memorize a sentence, but that is an entirely different exercise than instant recall. Most important, it is very difficult to focus simultaneously on a pleasurable and painful memory, which is why some psychiatrists encourage patients to focus on a pleasurable memory when anxiety or depression kicks in.

EDITOR’S COMMENT—This is the third article in a new series based on the author’s book, “Life Is Beautiful: 12 Universal Rules,” Waterfront Press, Cardiff California.

The author may be reached at Jim@ChateauMcely.Com.

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS III/2016

P ersonal

Figure 2: Very deep with your brain, there exists your “ancient brain.” It evolved to protect you from danger and is your source of “fight or flight” instinctive response. We still need it in our current world.

5. Memories are not real.

Feelings and memories have less to do with the present moment, although we sometimes forget this is a fact. It is particularly important when considering the challenge of unpleasant and fearful thoughts. Why is this? Our brains prefer to embed negative memories because historically, we needed to respond to threats much more quickly than our conscious minds could respond. This is an evolutionary protection mechanism. For example, you go to step off the curb into the crossing and see a speeding car a few meters away. Immediately the consciousness sensors in your frontal lobes turn down their sensitivity and your instinctive reaction takes evasive action. Sometimes the entire fraction of a second event can seem like a slow motion movie. Waldman says that this is because your everyday consciousness slows down and your “ancestral” protection consciousness or awareness, i.e., your “ancient brain” takes control.

Unfortunately, when there is a real threat, the brain responds to a negative memory as if the negative memory were occurring in the present moment.

The more you focus on “something negative can happen to me,” the more your body will release stress neurotransmitters to evoke a “fight or flight” response. It gets worse. As your brain perceives that there really was no threat, it enters a stage of confusion and releases even more stress neurotransmitters. Continued cycles like this can lead to an emotionally damaged brain.

6. Frequent practice of a 5:1 “Positivity Ratio” is necessary to build optimism and resilience to stress.

Your right prefrontal cortex constantly generates a stream of negative thoughts and feelings. This is a remnant of your “ancient brain” protective mechanism. However, your left prefrontal lobe is much more optimistic and evolved to support your making beneficial decisions directed at achieving your personal goals. You can focus either of these lobes with the obvious outcome, but you cannot focus both of them simultaneously.

Figure 3: Studies show that adults who maintain their childhood capabilities of daydreaming are creative and successful at addressing challenging personal and business issues.

Waldman reminds us of the findings of Positive Psychology founders, Fredrickson, Gottman and Losada, who independently determined that in businesses and personal relationships where the ratio of positive to negative thoughts falls below 3-to-1, those relationships were most likely to fail.

The most successful relationships and businesses were those where this ratio was at least 5-to-1. The reason for this effect is, as discussed above, the predilection of the brain to turn negative experiences into negative memories, and ultimately create negative consequences. Waldman in his studies has found that you can readily train your brain to interrupt negativity and generate optimistic thoughts with the desirable result of a successful interpersonal relationship or business.

7. Your beliefs shape your reality more than what you perceive with your senses, and they govern nearly every aspect of your life.

This is a very important point, which I have discussed it other contexts in prior articles. Waldman describes the impact of this process in precise detail as follows.

“Our memories form the basis of habitual behavior and they also form the foundation of our belief systems. A belief is a thought process – an assessment of the world and the value we place on a behavior or ideal. The more we repeat a certain thought, the more “real” that thought becomes. Because everything we believe in also has a corresponding nonbelief, the brain does something odd. It rejects any information, or anyone, that interferes with that belief. It’s a natural neurological process and it explains why human beings are so prone to prejudice. The moment we identify ourselves with one group (political, religious, social, or even a sports team) the less respect we show toward people who are members of different groups.

We need to remind ourselves that our labels – our beliefs, our memories, even our perceptions of the world – are not real. Instead they are arbitrary categories that our brain uses to organize the sensations coming in from an unknown world.”

8. Pleasure is one of the most important sensations for maintaining physical health, emotional balance, and business success.

Here Waldman is talking about very simple pleasures, but ones that can have a positive impact on your performance and fulfillment. He suggests: • Lightly stroking your palms can relieve performance anxiety.

• Slowly brushing your arms decreases negative emotions.

• Performing a pleasant physical activity improves productivity.

• To release pleasure-generating dopamine neurotransmitter within your brain, stretch your arms, neck and torso three times per hour for just 10 seconds.

9. Daydreaming is essential for learning and maintaining a healthy brain.

The process of awareness or consciousness requires highly focused attention and utilizes extensive levels of stress-reducing neurotransmitters.

Taking a couple of two-minute “daydreaming” breaks every hour or so can have a significant impact in rejuvenating your body and soul. Daydreaming also helps encode new information into long-term memories. It stimulates creativity in the brain’s frontal lobes (Figure 3). Maybe we should

enlightenment

not be correcting and discouraging children from their daydreaming habits.

10. Stress can disrupt nearly every neural activity in your brain.

We have all seen at one time or another how stress can stimulate excessive worrying, procrastination and is well known as the source of nearly every illness. Waldman has a few suggestions that help reduce stress. He notes that a quick way to interrupt stress is by yawning. It lowers hyperactivity in the functioning of the frontal lobes of our brain.

Drawing on suggestions made above, Waldman has found that if you combine yawning with slow stretching and gentle stroking of your arms and hands, you can enter a deep state of relaxation within a minute. I tried it. It works!

Waldman’s and Newberg’s work in neuroscience is most noteworthy. I recommend their books as a means to better physical, emotional and spiritual health.

Sat, Chit, Ananda!

Enjoy your journey, make a difference!

About the Author James A. Cusumano (www.JamesCusumano.Com) is Chairman and Owner of Chateau Mcely (www.

ChateauMcely.Com), chosen in 2007 by the European Union as the only “Green” 5-star luxury hotel in Central and Eastern Europe and in 2008 by the World Travel Awards as The World’s Leading Green Hotel. It is home to Chateau Mcely Forum™ (www.ChateauMcelyForum.Com) which offers programs that teach the principles of Inspired Leadership.

He is a former Research Director for Exxon, and subsequently founded two public companies in Silicon Valley, one in clean power generation, the other in pharmaceuticals manufacture via environmentally-benign, low-cost, catalytic technologies.

While he was Chairman and CEO, the latter – Catalytica Pharmaceuticals, Inc. – grew in less than 5 years, to a $1 billion enterprise with 2,000 employees. He is coauthor of Freedom from Mid-East Oil (2007), and the author of Cosmic Consciousness – A Journey to Well-being, Happiness and Success (2011), BALANCE: The Business – Life Connection (2013) and Life Is Beautiful: 12 Universal Rules (2016).

References 1 Andrew Newberg and Mark Robert Waldman, How Enlightenment Changes Your Brain, Avery, New York, 1916.

2 Andrew Newberg and Mark Robert Waldman, Words Can Change Your Brain, Plume, New York, 2013.

3 Andrew Newberg and Mark Robert Waldman, How God Changes Your Brain, Ballantine, New York, 2010.

4 Mark Waldman, http://launchmoxie.com/neurowisdom/.

ČSÚZ

Czechoslovak Foreign Institute general meeting 2016 I

n cooperation with

C zech & S lovak L eaders

Members of the Czechoslovak Foreign Institute gathered on 25 May 2016 at the general meeting.

They chose a new leadership and set tasks for the Institute in the next two-year period.

Cooperation with Czech schools and nurseries in Austria and Croatia and Czech Schools without Borders in Brussels and London, which teach Czech for children of expatriates and children from Czech and mixed families living abroad, as well as cooperation with the Czech departments at European universities are major activities of the Czechoslovak Foreign Institute in the period between 2016 and 2017. Its members decided about it on 25 May 2016 at the general meeting in Prague.

The Institute began to represent a significant part of Czech society. Its members are today ex-prime ministers, former diplomats, but also current prominent experts and managers of the companies, whose annual turnover is around

140 billion. The chairman of the Institute Jaromír Šlápota recalled it in his introductory speech. “The Czechoslovak Foreign Institute is an association where members voluntarily, according to their possibilities fulfill its mission, namely the support of compatriots abroad," he emphasized. In the past two years, the Czechoslovak Foreign Institute endowed the the Czech expatriate schools in Vienna and in Croatia with modern technology, organized three-week course of the Czech language for students of Czech abroad and expatriates, provided a financial contribution to buy new costumes for the children's expatriate assemble in Vienna, to issue the magazine Čechoaustralan in Australia and the magazine of Comenius Academic Club

The presidium of the meeting (from the right): PhDr. Libuše Benešová, JUDr. George Hartmann, Jaromír Šlápota and Mgr. Radoslav Baran.

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in the US, to support the activities of the Czech Schools without Borders in London and Brussels and it realized other projects for expats.

The Czechoslovak Institute in Bratislava has been working for expats from 3 May 2013; his chairman Mgr. Radoslav Baran informed the participants of the general meeting about its activities.

The year 2015 was assessed as a breakthrough for Czechoslovak Institute Bratislava. It increased the number of its members, performed the Slovak language course successfully in two years, provided a financial contribution to the Slovak compatriots in Serbia and obtained the regular contribution the Ministery of Finance for its activities. The Institute Bratislava also found its important place in the Slovak society and is now

The chairman of the Institute Jaromír Šlápota reviewed its activities in the last two-year period and mentioned also the activities for the past 25 years in that context.

ČSÚZ

The longtime member of the Institute Mgr. Karel Hábl received the award for his work and thanked the chairman Jaromír Šlápota for his merit to the Institute.

being visited by Slovak and Czech politicians, senators and MEPs and also by the Czech Ambassador, Mrs. Livia Klausová.

To those who in the past period contributed to the successful implementation of the Czechoslovak Foreign Institute projects, its chairman handed over the Silver commemorative lions and diplomas. The program for the next period of the Institute’s activities continues to be focused on support to Czech schools abroad and cooperation with European universities, where Czech is being taught.

The Slovak Ambassador Peter Weiss expressed his respect to the Institute. "The care of compatriots is a task for the Embassies, but the form

of that support provided by the Czechoslovak Foreign Institute is maybe better accepted," he said. Doc. Ivana Bozděchová informed about her participation at the Symposium of the Czech language in the Croatian Daruvar and she handed thank-you notes from Croatian expatriates to the Institute and to Jaromír Šlápota, whom the city of Daruvar also granted honorary citizenship. Professor Karel Raška from the United States, the former Chairman of the SVU, thanked the Institute for contribution to the magazine of Comenius Academic Club. Professor Ivo Barteček said that there are up to two million people of the Czech origin reported in the world. "The most educated and most com-

petitive people left the country and they helped to build the Saxony, Prussia, Hamburg, Bavaria, and later the United States," he said.

The leadership of the Czechoslovak Foreign Institute has not been changed. All the 23 members of the Management Committee will continue their work during further two-year period; and also the Board of Directors remains unchanged: chairman Jaromír Šlápota, vicechairmans PhDr. Libuše Benešová, Ing. Vladimír Bezděk and Ivo Valenta, and members Miroslav Langr, Ing. Jiří Musil and Ing. George Rudolf. Mgr. Radoslav Baran is the Deputy Chairman of the Management Committee.

Hebr

JUDr. Josef Povejšil, the member of the Control and Revision Commission, spoke about the importance of expatriates.

Mgr. Marta Gellová was elected a chairwoman of the Control and Revision Commission.

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matters interview

Peter Javorčík, Permanent Representative of the Slovak Republic to the EU (left) with Miroslav Lajčák, Minister of Foreign and European Affairs of the Slovak Republic

AN INTERVIEW

WITH Peter Javorčík,

Permanent Representative of the Slovak Republic to the EU

We are set to approach current challenges from a positive angle

What are the main goals of the Slovak presidency?

Slovakia assumes its Presidency role at difficult times. In the past couple of years, the European Union has faced a number of challenges that affect its overall shape. We observe a certain sense of political fragmentation and this must be of our concern because fragmentation makes us vulnerable – internally and externally. However, Slovakia is not going to spread defeatism. On the contrary, we are set to approach current challenges from a positive angle. Our priorities will centre around four ambitions: to make European economy stronger; to modernise and broaden the single market in areas such as energy and digital economy; to work towards sustainable migration and asylum policy; and to pay attention to our external environment, namely trade deals and enlargement policy.

There will be a clear common denominator for these priority areas. Firstly, it is our aim to overcome fragmentation – by being an engine of positive agenda and an advocate of longterm solutions that unite us and work on the ground. Secondly, we are determined to deliver tangible results for our citizens – something that could help strengthening their connection to the EU.

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During the next 6 months, Slovakia will be a speaker of 28 EU countries and an important negotiator in the legislative process. How will you deal with your position on the migration issue?

Everyone can be sure that the Slovak Presidency will be an honest broker, a credible and constructive manager, negotiator or mediator.

However, let us avoid dangerous simplifications.

The Presidency cannot be narrowed down to one single area, namely migration, and at the same time, this one single area cannot be narrowed down to one single file, the revision of the Dublin regulation. There is still a great deal of unfinished business. Continuing controls at several internal border crossings are the biggest reminder – therefore, we must do what it takes to return to a proper functioning of the Schengen.

The Netherlands Presidency has done a great job of creating the European Border Guards.

However, it is one thing to have it on paper and

CZECH&SLOVAK LEADERS III/2016

another thing is to make it operational. This is our task. We are also set to put a lot of efforts into the smart borders package to modernize the Schengen’s external borders. Moreover, we need to establish effective cooperation with third countries of origin and transit. The EU-Turkey agreement remains an important part of it. Speaking of the Common European Asylum System, there will be altogether some seven legislative proposals on our table in July.

Nothing is going to be shelved or frozen. But we believe a complex, thorough look is needed, with less divisive elements at first, perhaps.

Will it be possible for you to keep up a position of V4 countries? Will you have the capacity to join the V4 meetings?

Slovakia will remain part of the V4 during the Presidency, too, participating in the meetings organized by our Polish colleagues. One has to understand that the V4 is not only about

EU coordination of positions in Brussels. The grouping has a strong internal dimension – cooperation among Visegrad partners throughout many areas. But at the same time, it is clear that Slovakia will not be in a position to join the V4 on various common positions.

Sitting in the EU Presidency chair, we will listen carefully to our V4 partners as well as other Member States. We count on the V4’s support in fulfilling our Presidency programme in the Council of the EU. Proposed revision of posting of workers directive is a real headache for Central and Eastern Europe. What can you do as a presidency to influence the process?

Firstly, I would be careful to portray this proposal as you have outlined. Secondly, after the proposal has received the yellow card from national parliaments, the ball is in the European Commission’s courtyard. We have to see what the Commission’s response will be. It is due to be formulated by mid-July and the Slovak Presidency will take it from there.

The truth, however, is that we have an opinion of eleven sovereign parliaments, the most legitimate bodies representing citizens’ views.

One of the arguments has been that the recent Commission proposal was premature as the 2014 directive on implementation of the posting of workers is still being transposed and we have no proper assessment on the situation on the ground yet. Additionally, the argument that new measures target only 0.7% of the workforce can be used in both ways. It therefore raises a question of how it fits with the big on big and small on small principle of the better regulation. We will discuss the proposal at appropriate bodies and try to find compromise solution. However, at this particular moment, the aim of our Presidency is to concentrate primarily on files which are not divisive.

In the second half of 2016, we expect many initiatives within the strategy on energy union. What is your view on the ETS revision?

Ambition to continue building a proper single market in the area of energy – but also in the area of digital economy – is an important part of the Slovak Presidency programme. We believe that Slovakia, as a strong advocate of the single market, is well placed to push forward both, the energy union and the digital single market. In the field of the energy union, let me highlight energy security as one of our top priorities. We aim to launch negotiations on the security of gas supply regulation with the European Parliament and move the discussion forward as much as possible.

This would help addressing uncertainties by boosting regional cooperation and the principle of solidarity. The decision on energy intergovernmental agreements which would lead to greater transparency is another example and we are set to start and

conclude negotiations with the European Parliament. Regarding the emission trading system reform, the Presidency plans to advance these negotiations, too. We are set to devote a substantial amount of time to the file and our aim is to have an agreement at the Council level in December. Moreover, the Modernisation Fund supporting energy sector in certain Member States and Innovation Fund supporting investments in the renewables will be discussed during the joint Informal meeting of environment and energy ministers in Bratislava in July.

Are there any priority dossiers for you in the Digital Single Market that we could see concluded in the second half of this year?

We have a lot of consumer-friendly initiatives on our plate and the Presidency is set to focus on, for instance, geo-blocking, portability of online content, digital contract rules, consumer protection rules, a phase-out of roaming charges, spectrum harmonisation, e-Government or cooperation on cyber security with industry. We want to be a foreseeing Presidency that helps to create long-term certainty for all market players as this could boost both, investment and consumer confidence. Regarding specific legislative deliverables, let me name a number of concrete ones. The Presidency aims to reach a political agreement with the European Parliament on cross-border portability of online content – key for citizens being able to access their downloads when abroad. The same goes for spectrum harmonization in the range of 700MHz – something that could significantly boost the use of wireless mobile broadband and ensure further development of services such as connected vehicles or e-health. In addition, we will try to achieve an agreement among Member States on geoblocking and, if the extent of the proposal allows, on consumer protection, too. These two proposals go hand in hand because consumers need to have confidence that their rights are enforced equally in all Member States. Last but not least, a Council agreement on ending the wholesale roaming fees is also of our interest, while we expect a significant progress on digital contracts as well as crossborder parcel delivery.

As a Eurozone member you will have the possibility to cook the monetary issues together with other 18 countries. What is in the kitchen now?

In the context of the recent economic and financial crisis, we have embarked on a journey towards a more resilient Economic and Monetary Union and we believe that this should continue. For instance, Slovakia aims to promote discussion about the fiscal union. Moreover, you will find a lot about investments in our Presidency programme, namely, future prospects of the European

matters interview

Strategic Investment Fund or the Capital Markets Union.

What will happen in case of Brexit?

We take an in-or-out referendum in the United Kingdom in all seriousness because its result will deeply influence the overall atmosphere. But let me turn your question around and answer in a positive way. Slovakia – while respecting the right of the UK citizens to choose their path – hopes that the UK will decide to remain a part of our family. It would be a much needed positive boost for the EU as a whole. If worse comes to worst, it would be the European Council taking a political lead in response to the negative outcome.

The Slovak Presidency, for its part, would do its utmost to ensure that the EU remains a stable environment and delivers on many important projects currently on the table.

However, I don’t want to paint a black picture to avoid a self-fulfilling prophecy. But let me stress one thing. Regardless of the result, we all have to work harder to strengthen people‘s confidence, even enthusiasm for the European project. Because whatever the critics say, there is no better alternative to mutual cooperation. That is precisely why we put a strong emphasis on positive projects that first, unite us, and second, deliver tangible results for citizens across the EU. In addition, we need to listen to opinions around the table. It is true that none of the recent or current challenges can be resolved at a national level alone. No country in the EU is powerful enough to manage on its own.

Paraphrasing recent remarks by the European Council President Donald Tusk, citizens do not share our enthusiasm for the idea of instant and total integration. We have to speak to their hearts, use language they are willing to listen to, and convince them that the EU is a project of values, rules that are not mended, and capable of delivering.

You are having a Brussels-based presidency. Aren´t you afraid of political pressure from Bratislava though the competences are quite clear?

Slovakia has been preparing for its Presidency for almost four years. We have established a good, efficient and well-functioning coordination mechanism between the Representation in Brussels and our capital.

The key is to ensure a smooth flow of information both ways. We are definitely one team working to make the Slovak Presidency a success.

Thank you for the interview!

Alena Mastantuono Director of CEBRE – Czech Business Representation to the EU

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debate

Meeting of CEBRE founders with Czech MEPs

Michaela Šojdrová, Member of the European Parliament and Luděk Niedermayer, Member of the European Parliament

From left: Alena Mastantuono, Director, CEBRE-Czech Business Representation to the EU, Vladimír Dlouhý, President, Czech Chamber of Commerce, Jaroslav Hanák, President, Confederation of Industry of the Czech Republic, and Jan Wiesner, President, Confederation of Employers' and Entrepreneurs' Associations of the Czech Republic

Revision of the Posting of Workers Directive, German minimum wage law, market economy status of China or recent initiatives in the energy sector – those were the topics of another meeting of founders of CEBRE – Czech Business Representation to the EU with Czech Members of the European Parliament that took place on 17th of May 2016 in Prague. Presidents of the Confederation of Industry of the Czech Republic, Confederation of Employers' and Entrepreneurs' Associations of the Czech Republic and Czech Chamber of Commerce called on Czech MEPs to defend national interests in the European Parliament despite the views of their political groups and promised to support their work with arguments from Czech businesses.

Seal of Excellence – A Second Chance for Innovative Businesses Vladimir Cid Bourié, Spanish Office for Science and Technology in Brussels, Adéla Hradilová, International Funding Specialist, JIC, Czech Republic, Magda de Carli, Deputy Head of Unit, Spreading of Excellence and Widening Participation, DG RTD, European Commission, Martina Dlabajová, Member of the European Parliament, Petr Očko, Director of the Financial Instruments and Project Management Department, Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Czech Republic, Alena Mastantuono, Director, CEBRE-Czech Business Representation to the EU

Martina Dlabajová, Member of the European Parliament

Participants of the debate

High quality proposals from innovative Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises not funded within Horizon 2020 SME instrument budget have additional chances to be funded. Almost 6 months after the launch of the initiative called the Seal of Excellence, we can see the first results – a number of Members States and regions are about to launch the first calls supporting 'seal proposals', but some prefer to use their own national/regional budget as they feel uneasy with using European Structural and Investment Funds and some see compliance with State Aid regulation preventing to exploit the full potential of the seal initiative. The implementation of the Seal of Excellence was discussed at the Czech Permanent Representation to the EU on 4th of April 2016 with representatives of EU institutions, businesses, Permanent representations to the EU, research centres and other stakeholders.

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Services passport must lead to true simplification Services account for a major part of EU GDP. However, a vast majority of them is provided on domestic markets.

The growth potential of cross-border provision of services is huge, but there are significant obstacles that prevent it. Therefore, the European Commission wants to create a new instrument – the so-called services passport that should help services providers go cross-border and reduce unnecessary burden. The services passport was discussed by representatives of EU institutions, permanent representations and business organizations on 19th of April 2016 in Brussels.

Ben Butters, Policy Department Director, EUROCHAMBRES, Jürgen Tiedje, Head of Unit E.1, Service Policy for Consumers, DG GROW, European Commission, Jakub Dürr, Ambassador, Deputy Permanent Representative, Permanent Representation of the Czech Republic to the EU, Evelyne Gebhardt, Member of the European Parliament, Jan Havlík, Director, European Affairs and Internal Market Department, Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Czech Republic, Jeroen Hardenbol, Senior Advisor for Services, BusinessEurope

Ben Butters, Policy Department Director, EUROCHAMBRES, Jürgen Tiedje, Head of Unit E.1, Service Policy for Consumers, DG GROW, European Commission, Jakub Dürr, Ambassador, Deputy Permanent Representative, Permanent Representation of the Czech Republic to the EU

Jan Havlík, Director, European Affairs and Internal Market Department, Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Czech Republic, Jeroen Hardenbol, Senior Advisor for Services, BusinessEurope, Jakub Dürr, Ambassador, Deputy Permanent Representative, Permanent Representation of the Czech Republic to the EU, Ben Butters, Policy Department Director, EUROCHAMBRES

Participants of the debate

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matters business

DID YOU KNOW THAT? National parliaments issued “yellow cards” to posted workers directive revision More than a third of EU member states’ national parliaments used the so-called yellow card to stop European Commission´s proposal of a revised posted workers directive. National parliaments can use the yellow card in case they feel that the Commission’s proposal could violate the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality. In the case of posted workers proposal, 11 national parliaments were against. Representatives of EU businesses agree with them as changing the legislation would result in legal uncertainty for companies in the EU. No health claims on energy drinks, said MEPs At the beginning of July, members of the European Parliament vetoed the proposal of the European Commission which would allow producers of energy drinks containing caffeine to put claims that these drinks boost alertness or concentration. MEPs said that this would lead to increased consumption of sugar especially among adolescents, who are the biggest consumers of energy drinks. A can of 250ml can contain up to 27g of sugar and 80mg of caffeine and their usage has been linked with headaches, sleep and behavioural issues among the youth, said MEPs. New Skills Agenda for the EU The European Commission introduced a new Skills Agenda for Europe. Its goal is to ensure that all Europeans will develop a broad set of skills from early age and that the quality of skills will improve in order to ensure better employability.

The Commission plans to launch 10 actions that will help to achieve this goal both at national and EU level. These include review of the European Qualifications Framework, Blueprint for Sectoral Cooperation on Skills, Skills Guarantee, Skills Profile Tool for Third Country Nationals and other.

Brexit should be done ASAP, sad European Parliament At an extraordinary plenary session of the European Parliament right after the British EU referendum, Members of the European Parliament agreed that the UK should fully respect the outcome of the referendum and leave the EU as soon as possible. Only then it will be possible to start setting up a new relationship between the EU and the United Kingdom. This would help to end the period of uncertainty. Parliament also called for the annulment of the UK’s EU Council Presidency which is scheduled for the second half of 2017.

EFSI to continue after 2018 One year after its launch, European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker announced that the Commission wants the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI) to be extended beyond 2018. EFSI, the main pillar of the Juncker Investment Plan managed to support projects in 26 member states and is expected to trigger 100 billion EUR in investment so far. In addition, the European Commission launched the European Investment Project Portal, which is an online platform bringing together promoters and investors.

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LET´S TALK NUMBERS! Euro area annual inflation expected -0.2% in April 2016 According to Eurostat, euro zone annual inflation is expected to be -0.2% in April 2016, down from 0.0% in March. Inflation is mainly driven by services (0.9%, compared with 1.4% in March 2016), followed by food, alcohol and tobacco (0.7%, stable compared with March) and nonenergy industrial goods (0.5%, stable compared with March 2016).

Commission’s EU budget for 2017 proposal reaches 134.9 billion EUR At the end of June 2016, the European Commission proposed draft budget of the EU for 2017 that expects payments rising to 134.9 billion EUR. The two main priorities of the EU in 2017 will be supporting the ongoing recovery of the European economy and addressing the security and humanitarian challenges in the neighbouring countries. To boost the economic growth, the EU plans to spend the total of 74.6 billion EUR, which is almost 5 billion EUR more, than the previous year.

Czech unemployment rate lowest in the EU In May 2016, the Czech Republic reached the lowest unemployment rate among all the EU member states, according to Eurostat. With 4.0%, the Czech Republic recorded better results than Malta (second with 4.1%) and Germany (third with 4.2%). Overall, the euro area unemployment rate was 10.1%, 0.1% lower than in April 2016. In the same period, the whole EU has seen the decline of 0.1% from 8.7% in April to 8.6% in May 2016.

EU to invest 6.7 billion EUR to transport projects The European Commission approved 195 new transport projects that will be granted support from the Connecting Europe Facility. The total budget is 6.7 billion EUR and the Commission expects that it will trigger additional 2.9 billion EUR from the private sector. The projects will be mainly focused on digitalization and decarbonisation of European transport sector. The co-financing rate is between 20% and 50% of total eligible costs. For those countries using the Cohesion Fund, the rate is up to 85%.

EU supports creative industries with 121 million EUR guarantee scheme At the end of June, the European Commission together with the European Investment Fund launched a guarantee initiative to support European SMEs active in the cultural and creative sectors. The budget of the initiative is 121 million EUR and it is expected to provide loans worth more than 600 million EUR over the next six years.

The Commission expects that more then 10 000 SMEs active in audiovisual sector, festivals, music, literature, design and others will benefit from the initiative.

IN THE WORLD! New EU strategy on China At the end of June, the European Commission adopted its five-year strategy focused on its relations with China. The strategy is not only focused on mutual cooperation in economic

areas, but also includes topics such as foreign and security policy or human rights. The Commission focuses on both contemporary issues, such as granting the so-called market economy status or limitation of overcapacity, especially in steel sector, as well as on longer-term issues such as negotiating trade and investment agreement, elimination of state interventions in the functioning of the economy or the reform of state-owned companies.

EU started new FTA negotiations with Mexico EU and Mexico officially launched talks on new trade and investment agreement. EU Commissioner for Trade Cecilia Malmström and the Secretary of Economy of Mexico Ildefonso Guajardo Villarreal met at the end of May to mark the beginning of the negotiations between the two. The objective of these talks is to modernize and broaden the scope of the existing global agreement from 1997. The agreement aims to reduce existing tariffs and encourage investment and services and also address sustainable development and human rights issues.

EU trade deal with South Korea shows positive impact According to a report by the European Commission that was published at the beginning of July, the Free Trade Agreement between the EU and South Korea helped to transfer negative trade balance of the EU to a positive one. The report was published five years after entry of the FTA into force and mentions that EU exports to South Korea have increased by 55% and bilateral trade in goods between the two partners reached a record level of 90 billion EUR in 2015.

In addition, European businesses have saved 2.8 billion EUR on customs duties.

Protectionist measures on the rise The European Commission published its report called Trade and Investment Barriers and Protectionist Trends that shows the rise of global protectionist measures in trade. From June 2015 to December 2016, there have been approximately 200 new protectionist measures put in place. Since the beginning of the economic crisis, there have been over 1000 of these measures. The most frequent measures include import restrictions, import and export duties, technical regulations and sanitary and phytosanitary rules.

New EU economic deal with Southern African countries In the middle of June, the European Commission signed development-orientated Economic Partnership Agreement with six countries of the Southern African Development Community.

These countries include Botswana, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa and Swaziland. The aim of the agreement is to increase trade exchange between the partners and support sustainable development. As part of the deal, Southern African countries’ markets will open gradually to EU exports in order to diversify their economies and import goods necessary for further development.

Brought by CEBRE – Czech Business Representation to the EU

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