The unseen crisis: Substantive political representation and over-indebtedness in the Czech Republic

This article examines the issue of over-indebtedness in the Czech Republic and its relationship to political representation. By analysing the 2017–2021 legislative period, the study investigates how political parties in the Czech Chamber of Deputies substantively represented economically disadvantaged citizens, particularly those facing debt enforcement. The findings reveal unexpected patterns, with the Czech Pirate Party showing the strongest advocacy for this demographic with low political trust, contrary to initial expectations that left-leaning parties would lead in substantive representation. Additionally, the research highlights the paradox of citizens supporting political parties that do not necessarily align with their economic interests, potentially influencing levels of political trust. This study provides insights into the complexities of political representation, voter behaviour, and the socio-economic challenges of over-indebtedness.