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Egon Lánský
Egon Lánský (2012).JPG
Egon Lánský in November 2012
Born
Egon Löwy

(1934-07-23)23 July 1934
Died 25 November 2013(2013-11-25) (aged 79)
Occupation Politician, journalist, political commentator, spokesperson, columnist
Years active 1968–2002

Egon T. Lánský (born Egon Löwy; 23 July 1934 – 25 November 2013) was an important figure in Czech politics. He was a politician for the Czech Social Democratic Party, a journalist, and a spokesperson. He also shared his opinions as a political commentator and columnist.

Egon Lánský's Journey

Egon Lánský
Lánský at a book signing, 2007

Egon Lánský was born as Egon Löwy on 23 July 1934 in Trenčín, which is now part of Slovakia. His parents were Jewish doctors. In 1939, his father had to leave for England because of the German occupation of Czechoslovakia.

After surviving a concentration camp during World War II, Egon returned to Trenčín. He changed his last name to Lánský and continued to practice his Jewish faith. He was very good at languages, speaking Czech, English, Slovak, and Swedish.

Moving to Sweden

In August 1968, Egon Lánský moved to Sweden. He worked in different jobs while learning the Swedish language. Before leaving, in the spring of 1968, he helped start a group called the Club of Committed Non-Party Members.

Later, in 1981, he finished his studies in history and political science at Lund University in Lund, Sweden.

Working as a Commentator

From 1981 to 1984, Egon Lánský worked as a political commentator for a Swedish newspaper. He also worked for a Czechoslovakian news company. After that, he became a commentator for Radio Free Europe in Munich, Germany.

He was also involved in different groups in Israel. There, he helped create a committee that supported countries in Eastern Europe.

Return to Politics

In November 1989, Lánský came back to Czechoslovakia. He became the spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry. He also served as the Czechoslovak ambassador to the Council of Europe in Strasbourg.

After Czechoslovakia split into two countries, he became a Czech citizen. He worked as a consultant and journalist. In 1995, he became the spokesperson for Miloš Zeman, who was the leader of the Czech Social Democratic Party.

In 1995, Egon Lánský also appeared in a comedy-drama film called Golet v údolí. He played the role of a rabbi.

Senator and Government Role

In the 1996 elections, Egon Lánský was chosen as a Senator for the Děčín District. He held this position until 2002.

In July 1998, he became a deputy chairman in Miloš Zeman's government. He was in charge of coordinating foreign affairs, internal affairs, and defense. He also worked on the talks for the Czech Republic to join the European Union.

He resigned from his government role in November 1999, explaining it was for health reasons.

Later Years and Passing

Egon Lánský passed away on 25 November 2013, at the age of 79. He had been ill for a long time and died in a hospital in Prague.

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