Miloslav Ransdorf — Czech politician and Member of the European Parliament (1953–2016)

Political career and activities

Ransdorf spent much of his public life within the structures of the KSČM and its parliamentary delegations. In the European Parliament he took part in the regular work of an elected representative, engaging with legislative debates, inquiries and the committees and groups that shape EU policy. His long tenure made him one of the more familiar Czech MEPs from his party during the first decade after Czech accession to the European Union.

Notable aspects and positions

Colleagues and observers noted Ransdorf's loyalty to his party's program and his readiness to intervene on matters of social and economic policy. He was often associated with discussions about state responsibility, social justice and the position of industry and labour in post-Communist Central Europe. For further official details of his parliamentary work see his European profile: European Parliament profile.

Controversy and legal issues

In December 2015 Ransdorf was detained in Switzerland in connection with a criminal investigation into alleged irregularities involving a bank; Swiss authorities and news outlets reported the arrest as part of a probe. The case attracted attention in Czech and Swiss media and became a subject of political discussion at home. Reports of the incident and the surrounding coverage can be found in contemporary press accounts: Swiss news report. Basic biographical references note his place of birth: Rakovník.

Death and legacy

Ransdorf died unexpectedly on 22 January 2016 in Prague at the age of 62. Official statements and subsequent reporting indicated he suffered a stroke shortly before his death. The circumstances were widely reported in Czech media and in European political circles; see a notice of his passing: medical report reference and a press obituary: obituary and reactions. His death ended a long and sometimes contentious public career that left a mark on the KSČM's presence in European institutions.

Summary facts

• Full name: Miloslav Ransdorf
• Born: 15 February 1953, Rakovník
• Political affiliation: Communist Party of Bohemia and Moravia (KSČM)
• European Parliament: Member from 1 May 2004 until 22 January 2016
• Died: 22 January 2016, Prague (stroke)