Bush’s missile shield is cold war relic

Thousands demonstrated against president Bush’s visit to the Czech Republic

Over 2,000 people gathered in Prague in the Czech Republic on Monday this week to protest against the visit of George Bush.

His administration would like to build a radar base for their missile defence system here.

Our conservative government is eager to give Bush whatever he wants, insisting that the “rocket shield” will protect Europe against attacks from Iran or North Korea.

But Iran and North Korea have neither the means nor the intention of attacking Europe. Instead the base will strengthen the influence of US imperialism in central Europe, and reignite the arms race.

Our demonstration on Monday followed a national demonstration on Saturday 26 May when 5,000 gathered in Wenceslas Square in Prague. Both demonstrations were full of energy and determination.

The protests were organised by Iniciativa Ne Základnám (No to Bases Initiative) which was formed less than a year ago.

Now our coalition has the support of more than 50 organisations, including some trade unions.

For the first time since the revolution in 1989, we now have a social movement that has spread beyond Prague.