Incumbent Czech President Miloš Zeman won the first round of the country’s presidential election on 13 January 2018 but did not secure the majority needed to avoid a runoff.
With nearly complete results, Zeman received about 38.6 percent of the vote. Academic Jiří Drahoš finished second and advanced to the decisive contest two weeks later. Most defeated candidates backed Drahoš, making the second round competitive.
The election was closely watched beyond the Czech Republic because Zeman had cultivated relations with Russia and China, criticised immigration and challenged some mainstream European Union positions. Drahoš presented a more firmly pro-European alternative and warned about foreign influence.
Although the Czech presidency is less powerful than the government, the office carries influence in appointments, foreign policy debate and the formation of cabinets. The contest therefore became a wider argument over the country’s political orientation and public tone.
Zeman narrowly won the runoff on 27 January with approximately 51.4 percent against Drahoš’s 48.6 percent, securing a second term. The close result exposed a divided electorate and foreshadowed continuing debates over migration, European integration and relations with Moscow.
Sources
Zeynep Aziz is a social-affairs specialist, writer and advocate with advanced academic qualifications in both Social Sciences and International Relations. Her multidisciplinary education has given her a strong understanding of society, public policy, human rights and the political forces shaping Turkey’s domestic and international development.
For many years, Zeynep has been actively engaged in social affairs and initiatives supporting the rights and well-being of Turkish citizens. Her work pays particular attention to social equality, democratic participation and the protection of vulnerable and disadvantaged communities.
Women’s rights remain central to her interests and advocacy. She works to raise awareness of the challenges faced by women in Turkey, including discrimination, violence, unequal opportunities and barriers to full participation in political, professional and social life. She strongly supports women’s empowerment, equal access to education and employment, and effective legal protection for women and girls.
Alongside her social work, Zeynep closely follows Turkey’s international relations and foreign policy. She takes a keen interest in Turkey’s relations with Europe, neighbouring countries and international institutions, as well as the impact of regional and global developments on Turkish society.
Through her writing and public engagement, Zeynep seeks to encourage informed discussion, strengthen respect for human rights and contribute to a fairer, more democratic and inclusive Turkey.
Zeynep Aziz
