The president, Miloš Zeman, has caused an outcry by saying he will not confer the title of professor on a Charles University academic. Heads of state normally just rubberstamp such decisions, and Mr. Zeman’s position on the appointment of Martin C. Putna is wholly unprecedented. The president has not been entirely clear on the reasons – but says he objected to a placard the academic carried in a gay pride march. The head of state said he respected Mr Putna’s sexual orientation.
