Marek Ženíšek: It is extremely irresponsible for our country to be ruled by communists or extremists
Marek Ženíšek belongs among the youngest officials members of the current government, focusing on science, research, and innovation. He strives to make sure science does not become a mere elite issue, but a tool for improving our everyday life. The father of son Matěj and daughter Rebeka criticizes the tendency of part of the population to oversimplify and polarize in the current election campaign. society.
You are a trained political scientist. How would you characterize the current political situation in our country and in the world?
I see a growing polarization here, but at the same time an effort for dialogue and search for a common language across parties. In the world we observe a shift towards greater fragmentation, pressure on democratic institutions, but also a huge potential in civic engagement and technological innovations that change the way politics are made and perceived.
Why do you think the Science, Research and Innovation sector, which you lead, should remain independent?
Science, research, and innovation are not only supportive areas, but they are the pillars of our country's future. A separate ministry allows strategic management, targeted investment, and effective cooperation with the academic sphere and private sector. If we want to be competitive, we need to have a strong and autonomous department.
How do you perceive the current pre-election campaign?
It is an intense period, which shows how important it is to communicate with people openly and understandably. I perceive the efforts of some entities to have a factual debate, but unfortunately also tendencies to oversimplify and polarize. My priority is to lead a campaign based on facts, respect, and specific solutions.
What topics are currently the most crucial for you in the campaign?
Definitely safety, support for science and research, but also support for regions, because top-level science is definitely not only done in Prague. I want science not to become an elitist matter, but a tool for improving everyday life. At the same time, I emphasize the firm anchoring of the Czech Republic in democratic and defensive structures and trust between citizens and the state.
Why do you think people should vote this year?
Because every election is an opportunity to influence the direction our country will take. This is very apparent this year, between the choice of whether we will lean more towards the east or the west in the coming years. Democracy is a living process that requires active participation. In a security and geopolitical situation as complex as that of the Czech Republic and Europe now, in my opinion, it is highly irresponsible for our country to be governed by communists or extremists.
According to you, what has improved in Pilsen, where you come from and where you were a representative, over the last 35 years?
Pilsen has transformed from an industrial city into a modern metropolis with a cultural reach. I appreciate the development of infrastructure, the revitalization of public spaces, but also how the city has opened up to young people, startups, and university life. Pilsen is now confident, vibrant, and inspiring.
Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?
I hope to still be in public service. I want to continue to work on making the Czech Republic a respected and successful country. Personally, I would like to have more time for my family, books, and the Pilsen region, which is my home.
Thank you for the interview.
Sources: author's text, interview, Office of the Minister for Science, Research and Innovation
