Europe
EU clout in Western Balkans: predictions for 2016
Amid concerns over increased Russian influence in the Western Balkans, the progress of two countries – Serbia and Macedonia – in early 2016 will act as a good indicator of
In trying to curb immigration, Sweden and Denmark risk trade ties
Trying to crack down on illegal immigration, Sweden and Denmark recently imposed border checks. But unpredictable border management modifications around the EU bear the risk of obstructing the ease of
Merkel faces cracks in coalition over refugee policy
The spate of violence on New Year’s Eve in Germany has caused a national scandal and created rifts within Angela Merkel’s governing coalition. The wave of violence which occurred in
The Cost of Terror in Brussels
Brussels, the capital of Belgium and the European Union, is experiencing some immediate economic effects resulting from recent terror threats in 2015. This city’s experience may prove to be a
Belarus Walks a Tightrope
Five years after the United States and the European Union imposed sanctions on Belarus for violently suppressing political opposition in the 2010 presidential elections, the sanctions have been lifted after
What to expect in Europe in 2016
In addition to the continuation of current crises, Europe will face new matters of contention in 2016. Nationalism and fragmentation within the EU will keep growing, including on the Brexit
Financial markets look to European policymakers
European policymakers are initiating a smoothing of regulatory burdens on investors. But political risks like the Brexit and a politically motivated Tax on Financial Transactions threaten to counter this tantalizing
The Nuclear Implications of Turkey-Russia Tensions
Turkey’s downing of a Russian aircraft presents the threat of economic and geopolitical consequences for both nations. Among these consequences, the potential cancellation of a nuclear power agreement poses a feasible
Inconclusive elections in Spain threaten Europe’s political establishment
A divided election in Spain has left the main parties exploring coalition options. Instability and a return to the polls in the Spring are the most likely outcomes, unless tough
Looking back at major challenges to the EU in 2015
In 2015, the EU was faced with a set of unprecedented crises that shook it to its core. This situation offers an opportunity for public and private actors to implement
