Petr
Pavel
Head of State of the Czech Republic
From military service to the presidency.
Petr Pavel entered the presidency after a long career in Czech defence, international security and public service.
Military career
Pavel's military career spanned more than three decades. He rose to become Chief of the General Staff of the Czech Armed Forces and achieved the rank of General.
NATO leadership
From 2015 to 2018, he served as Chairman of the NATO Military Committee, the Alliance's senior military authority.
Election
After leaving active military service, Pavel remained engaged in civil society and public affairs. He won the presidential election in January 2023.
Presidency
Petr Pavel took the presidential oath on 9 March 2023 and became the fourth President of the Czech Republic.
Presidential responsibilities.
Head of State
Represents the Czech Republic and performs constitutional and ceremonial functions of the presidency.
Government Formation
Appoints the Prime Minister and, on the Prime Minister's proposal, other members of Government.
Armed Forces
Serves constitutionally as supreme commander of the Czech Armed Forces.
Diplomacy
Receives and accredits diplomatic representatives and represents the state externally.
Appointments
Exercises significant constitutional appointment powers across courts and other state institutions.
Legislation
Signs legislation and may return ordinary acts adopted by Parliament, subject to constitutional rules.