Politics
Europe’s Isolation against Russia
Vladimir Putin’s political assault on Europe comes from a meticulously crafted plan which was catalysed by Trump’s commandeering of the White House. Since assuming office in 1999, Putin has led the country with a clear vision of restoring Russia’s Soviet stature. If Russia’s recent actions are any indication of their progress, then it’s safe to say Putin has come a long way.
The Internal Market Bill: Updates on the UK-EU Brexit deal
Negotiations between the UK and EU over their post-Brexit relationship are now at risk of failing. This comes after the UK Government introduced the Internal Market Bill (IMB), the provisions of which amount to the breaking of international law, as it would enable UK ministers to implement regulations relating to state aid and customs procedures between Northern Ireland (NI) and Britain that are in breach of the UK’s obligations under the Withdrawal Agreement (WA).
Russia: Anti-Extremism Law Amendment Amid Protests in the Far East
A recent amendment to Russia’s anti-extremism legislation categorizes alienating territories from the country as extremism. The change arguably serves as a deterrent to the current mass protests in the Far East city of Khabarovsk, a persistent threat to the regime’s stability, as well as a new legal provision for anti-extremism legislation that has already been used.
Italy Becomes More Anti-Immigrant and Anti-EU
Domestic and international events are increasing the appeal of nationalistic parties.
Hungary: Coronavirus and Orban’s Power Play
For Hungarian Prime Minister Victor Orban, the coronavirus pandemic is another opportunity to pursue his approach of power politics in a democracy, that is increasingly at odds with the EU’s values.
Kosovo: Government toppled over Coronavirus
On 25 March the smaller party in Kosovo’s ruling coalition, the LDK, won a vote of no-confidence in the government of which it was a part. The vote was initiated over the government’s handling of the coronavirus, but this was not the only reason that the government fell.
Rise of Sinn Fein: Prospect of a United Ireland
The surprisingly strong showing of Sinn Fein, the left-leaning Irish republican party is yet another profound political development for the British Isles in the period since Brexit.
Germany: Race for Merkel’s Succession
The dominance of the German people’s parties has waned considerably in recent years. Growing fragmentation in the political landscape and within parties has increased the risk of political instability.
Malta: Challenges for the new Prime Minister
Malta elected a new prime minister in January, Robert Abela of the Labour Party, and he has a daunting task ahead in trying to unify the country and uphold the rule of law.
Iraq: Protests and Reforms
Years of governmental neglect has driven Iraq’s Shiites to the streets, precipitating an ever-deepening crisis for Prime Minister Adel Abdul-Mahdi’s government.
