C. THE THREE PILLARS OF CZECH REPUBLIC’S DEFENCE: THE STATE, THE ARMED FORCES, THE CITIZEN 10. The Czech Republic’s defence is based on the responsible approach of the Government, and other public administration authorities, to ensure the national defence system; on the development of the requisite defence capabilities within the framework of NATO’s collective defence; and on involvement of Czech citizens in defence activities in the event of a serious threat to the state. An important aspect in the proper functioning of these three pillars is to strengthen motivation and create a clear legal framework as well as real opportunities for the preparation of citizens in performing their duties as part of national defence. PILLAR 1: RESPONSIBLE APPROACH BY THE STATE TO THE DEFENCE OF THE CZECH REPUBLIC, AND NATO AND EU MEMBERSHIP COMMITMENTS 11. Defence of the territory of the Czech Republic: The responsibility for preparing and ensuring national defence rests with the Government of the Czech Republic.4 By the same token, defence is a matter for all branches of the government; regional governments, municipalities, legal entities, as well as citizens. The Czech Government creates conditions conducive to the development of the Armed Forces, and guarantees that those forces meet the requirements for defending the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the state as part of NATO’s collective defence. 12. Collective defence: In order to ensure its defence, the Czech Republic fulfils its capability targets voluntarily adopted in NATO’s defence planning process, and maintains capabilities for the reception of allied forces on Czech territory and for the provision of host nation support. The planned measures for ensuring national defence are verified by regular training exercises carried out by crisis management authorities and agencies both on the domestic and international level. 4 Act No. 222/1999 Coll., on Ensuring Defence of the Czech Republic. 9