Ostrava to Support Further Crime Prevention Activities with Millions of Crowns

On March 18, the city council approved additional funding for preventive projects focused on primary prevention. These meaningful activities are carried out by municipal organizations. In January, Ostrava provided nearly CZK 10 million to support preventive projects run by external entities.

"Data assessing the security situation in our city clearly show that the main drivers of criminal activity, especially among young people, include not only frequent substance addiction but also a lack of activities that encourage active and structured use of their free time. That’s why many preventive programs aim to provide young people with alternatives—such as sports or leisure activities—that are both engaging and help instill positive life values. By supporting primary crime prevention, the city is not only improving security in Ostrava but also expanding opportunities for more meaningful leisure time for our residents," said Deputy Mayor Zbyněk Pražák.

A total of CZK 5.32 million has been allocated for the operation and maintenance of 48 open-access municipal playgrounds. These playgrounds follow strict safety regulations, with regular inspections of play equipment and an on-site supervisor present during operating hours, now distinguishable by a reflective vest. At selected playgrounds, visitors can borrow sports equipment. The playgrounds are scheduled to open on April 1, 2025, and a complete list can be found here: https://bezpecnejsi.ostrava.cz/hriste/.

Funding will also support municipal districts in operating free-access clubs for children, where they can spend time with peers year-round. Several projects focus on summer holidays period when regular extracurricular activities pause. Districts are preparing a diverse program of creative, sports, and cultural activities that children can enjoy for free. Additionally, funds will be directed toward initiatives supporting alternative sentencing programs for adults convicted of criminal offenses. These initiatives aim to help individuals struggling to integrate into the workforce develop consistent work habits.

"However, we must also highlight the preventive activities of the Ostrava Municipal Police. Officers, mentors, and crime prevention assistants actively engage at traffic playgrounds and help children from disadvantaged backgrounds develop positive behavioral patterns. Their educational programs on crime prevention and safety target not only students but also non-teaching staff at schools. The municipal police’s crime prevention efforts reach a broad audience, from young children to seniors. Last year alone, the municipal police organized 1,395 such events," added Mayor Jan Dohnal. He also noted that crime rates have been steadily declining, with the number of registered crimes in the city halving over the past decade and dropping by nearly 10 % last year alone.

One of the funded projects is a new initiative focusing on cyberbullying prevention. The project involves students from Elementary School creating their own educational materials to raise awareness about cyberbullying and other risky behaviors. The final product will be a series of photographs—serving as an alternative to a book or film—crafted by students aged 11–15 in collaboration with teachers and volunteers. These materials will be used in classroom discussions and intergenerational meetings with seniors, helping address potential risky situations.

Meanwhile, the Ostrava-Jih district will provide a safe, free, and diverse program for children at risk of boredom and negative social influences during the summer holidays. The project will offer 40 morning activities, supervised by experienced educators, trainers, and mentors with years of expertise. Children will have the opportunity to try various sports, creative, artistic, and educational activities in local community organizations. If they enjoy a particular activity, they can join regular sessions starting in September. The program targets school-age children (7–14 years old), with a limit of 10 activities per child and an estimated 650 participants.