Europe
NATO steps up pressure along Russia borders
NATO recent exercises in Moldova and Georgia are part of a wider strategy aimed at increasing military pressure on Moscow in Eastern Europe and the Caucasus.
Manuel Valls and the Gordian Knot of economic reform in France
Manuel Valls is not a typical French socialist politician. He is a tough-talking security hawk forcing through liberal reforms, and he “loves business”.
ECB expansionary monetary policy at odds with Berlin
When Draghi began his tenure in 2011, Berlin was supportive in light of their informal influence over ECB. This relationship has since deteriorated sharply.
What exactly is “illiberal democracy”?
How can illiberal democracy exist in the EU? Is democracy still relevant in Europe, or is Central European pioneering a new model?
Nagorno-Karabakh: New threats, old solutions
Azerbaijani authorities may try to exploit the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict to improve the country’s domestic and international situation.
Swedish NATO membership may jeopardize Arctic opportunities
An increased Russian military activity in the Baltic Sea is fueling a debate about Swedish NATO membership. However, if this occurred, potential Russo-Swedish cooperation and investment in the Arctic would be negatively impacted.
US LNG could let Eastern Europe diversify its energy supply
Central and Eastern Europe are looking for ways to diversify their energy supply. LNG supplied via Croatia provides a promising opportunity.
Eurovision 2016: A window into current EU tensions
The issues surrounding this year’s Eurovision song contest, won by Ukraine, highlight a growing European tendency of politicising the public sphere.
EU policy towards Russia increases Euroscepticism
The EU policy toward Russia and Ukraine is increasing Euroscepticism within national electorates.
Scrapping the €500 bill highlights ECB-Berlin policy rift
The decision to scrap the €500 bill increases the risk of tensions between the ECB and Berlin and highlights both actors diverging policy interests.
