Mayors and Independents

The Czech Mayors and Independents (Starostové a nezávislí, STAN) is a centrist and liberal political party in the Czech Republic, which emphasizes localism, decentralization, and the importance of municipal and regional governance. Founded in 2004, the party has its roots in the movement of mayors and independent candidates who sought to bring a more hands-on, pragmatic approach to politics, focusing on the specific needs and issues of local communities rather than adhering strictly to the ideologies that often dominate national political discourse.

STAN values…   transparency, accountability, and efficiency in government, advocating for the devolution of power to the lowest possible level to ensure that decisions are made close to the people they affect. This approach is based on the belief that local officials, being closer to their constituents, are better positioned to understand and address local needs. The party also champions the cause of environmental protection, sustainable development, and the promotion of education and innovation as key drivers of economic growth.

Economically, the Mayors and Independents support the development of a competitive and socially responsible market economy. They argue for fiscal responsibility, efficient public administration, and the reduction of bureaucracy to foster business growth and innovation. While the party supports the European Union and Czech Republic's membership in it, they also advocate for reforms to ensure that EU policies better reflect the diverse needs of regions and municipalities.

In summary, the Czech Mayors and Independents party stands for a politics that is grounded in local realities, seeking to bridge the gap between citizens and their government by promoting greater involvement of local communities in decision-making processes. Their commitment to decentralization, coupled with a focus on pragmatic and sustainable solutions to contemporary challenges, defines their unique position within the Czech political landscape.