Posts From David Grant
Population decline in Central and Eastern Europe
Data from the United Nations Population Prospects has reiterated previous fears of a longstanding shrinking in the population of eastern, south-eastern and central Europe.
ECB: Systemic problems and future headwinds
At the next European Central Bank policy meeting in September, it is expected to gently lower interest rates to ease the burden on a stagnant Eurozone economy.
Italian fiscal policy: Anger in Brussels and Rome
On June 5th, the European Union began a process of opening Excessive Deficit Procedures (EDP) against Italy, which could culminate in a multi-billion Euro financial penalty.
Italy Embraces Belt and Road Initiative
On March 23, Italy formally endorsed China’s landmark Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The new arrangement risks riling fellow EU members, the United States and the rest of the G7. It could also see a seismic shift in China’s Europe strategy. Xi Jinping’s increasingly ubiquitous reinvigoration of the Silk Road will result in further involvement in European politics, business and defence for years to come, with wide-ranging repercussions. Italy’s decision places itself in an invidious position and will meet disapproval from traditional allies.
France and Italy: Growing tensions in Europe
France recalled its ambassador to Rome this month, for the first time since 1940, in a move which exemplifies a deepening diplomatic rift with Italy. Discord has been rumbling for months. This article explains why recent relations have become strained and how they could play out during 2019.
How can Britain escape the Brexit impasse?
With less than seventy days between now and the 29th March, time is running out to reach a deal. Precedent shows that Theresa May isn’t willing to compromise or adopt cross-party consensus, and the risk of a Corbyn government shirks her party away from an election. Parliament taking control or a referendum are the most likely solutions to the impasse.
Why is there a Brexit flare-up over Gibraltar?
During the United Kingdom’s negotiations of leaving the European Union, questions about Gibraltar have often been superseded by concerns about the Northern Irish border and its backstop agreement. Why have tensions suddenly flared in recent weeks and what does it mean for the Brexit process?
Labour’s muddled approach to Brexit creates its own risks
The Brexit process is reaching a critical moment. As negotiations continue, key parliamentary votes are lingering in the next few months. This article analyses the current sentiment within the opposition Labour Party whose inability to form a cohesive counterweight to the Conservative exacerbates potential risks.
Latvian elections: Populist success and coalitions
Latvia held a parliamentary election on October 6th. This saw the success of numerous small parties; notable is the arrival of KPV LV, relative newcomers who gained sixteen seats in the hundred seat Saeima. Expect the upcoming weeks to be consumed by movements to form a coalition.
