Europe
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.
Post-election: an energized Europe faces a polarized era
While the European Elections did not result in the much-predicted right-wing populist surge, the continued erosion of establishment parties and the upswing in participation suggests a new political era for the bloc.
Impact of ‘GreenLib’ Wave on European business interests
The May elections saw a significant change to the make-up of the European Parliament & reflect a fundamental shift in power politics throughout the EU.
Italy after the European Parliament Elections: the Populists prevail
Despite gains in France, the UK and other nations, Italy remains the sole EU member state to have a populist governing coalition after the EU Parliament elections. What does this mean for the future of Italy-Brussels relations and key policy debates likely to emerge in the next session?
Division and Apathy in North Macedonia
On 5th May, voters in North Macedonia went to the polls to choose a new president. It was the first election held since the country changed its legal name from
Europe’ data security dilemma: the Huawei debate
Last month, Huawei offered an anti-spy agreement to Germany, in order to ease the data security concerns and be able to participate in the country’s 5G mobile networks. However, without the same level of guarantee from the Chinese government, it is unlikely that the concerns could be eliminated. What would be the next step for European countries on this matter?
Brexit Party doesn’t mean Brexit: 2 graphs that tell the real story
Much noise is being made about the Brexit Party’s rapid ‘success’ in European election polling. The media are throwing around alarmist language like ‘terrifying’, ‘surge’, and ‘showdown’. All of their commentary is fundamentally misleading.
Where do the Yellow Vests stand?
More violence has broken out in France over President Macron’s proposed reforms. Will the Yellow Vests movement fade or is the unrest set to continue? Much depends on Macron’s image and the movement he is able to put together.
Eurasia: Is Belarus the next Crimea?
Russia tries to tighten its grip while simultaneously decreasing the resulting budget burden. On the other hand, Belarus is not willing to sacrifice its sovereignty but is acutely aware of its economic dependence on Russia.
Eastern Ukraine: Is reintegration still a realistic prospect?
On 24 April, Russia signed a decree allowing residents of rebel-controlled areas of Eastern Ukraine to apply for Russian passports. This was the latest in a series of steps making the reintegration of the Donbass less likely.
