Revolution or Evolution? Continuity and Change in Cleavages and Issues in Czech Politics

This study examines whether the traditional cleavage structures in Czech party politics have persisted despite the electoral volatility and instability, marked by the unprecedented rise of new, mainly populist parties that have emerged during the post-2010 period. Our findings, based on an analysis of party manifestos, reveal that the cleavage structure has largely endured, undergoing only incremental changes. The socio-economic agenda continues to dominate party competition, albeit with slightly diminished prominence, and the cultural liberal–conservative divide has similarly retained its significance. Additionally, issues such as democracy and government effectiveness have gained increased salience.