Today in the EU
Today in the EU is a daily podcast that covers politics and policy in the European Union. Hosted by Giada Santana, it features analysis from Euractiv's specialized journalists on topics such as EU institutions, elections, political shifts, tech regulations, environmental policy, and more. The podcast also incorporates reports from international organizations like the United Nations and the World Bank.
Afleveringen
What Roswall’s Clean Industrial Deal means for environmental policy
Today, the Commission unveils its rebranded Green Deal, signalling a new approach to industrial policy. The draft of the proposal obtained by Euractiv last week suggests a less-than-green path for Europe’s industrial revival, with a clear focus on slashing red tape. In doing so, however, it appears environmental safeguards may take a back seat. This negligence comes on top of unresolved
Why the German election is still not over
Yesterday, fifty-nine million voters cast their ballots in what is considered a defining election for Europe’s future. It was a big night for the Christian Democrats, which came out on top. This is a good reason for Merz, the likely next chancellor, to celebrate – but maybe not too hard, as the far-right AfD is now the second force in parliament. For the Social Democrats, it was more of a
EU top diplomat Kallas on 'Russian traps' and European red lines
The first round of US-Russia talks on a potential Ukraine peace deal kicked off yesterday in Riyadh – behind closed doors and without a single European or Ukrainian representative. The meeting caps off a week of American shock therapy for the continent, from Trump’s call with Putin to tough talk from US top brass in Munich, which sent shockwaves to Brussels and Kyiv, leaving them wonderin
Europe’s desperate bid to shape Ukraine’s Trump deal in Munich
Last weekend, Munich hosted the world’s premier geopolitical forum amid shifting alliances and rising tensions across country lines. In the Bavarian capital leaders convened to debate on everything from global governance to climate security. But the real question for Europeans remains how the ongoing war in Ukraine will end, and on whose terms after Trump held a “lengthy and productive”
Why Valentine’s Day will taste more bitter this year
Are you looking forward to celebrating the day of love? You’re not the only one. For food producers, the day is a test of how far consumers are willing to stretch their budgets. After all, chocolate prices have been skyrocketing due to a perfect storm of supply chain disruptions, climate change, and energy crisis. Only in December 2024, cocoa bean prices surged by 250%. How is inflation s
What a supermarket boycott has to do with the Romanian election
Across the Western Balkans and beyond, the eye watering prices of food products have led citizens to successfully boycott supermarkets in the past two weeks. In Croatia, Serbia and Montenegro, sales were down to 30% or more. This weekend, Calin Georgescu, polls’ frontrunner in Romania, called on people to boycott foreign-owned supermarkets, “to support Romanian producers.” In November, t
What the EU can expect from NATO talks
NATO members are meeting in Brussels today for the first time since Trump took office to discuss defence spending pledges, GDP targets, and weapons delivery to Kyiv. The bloc is feeling the pressure. Trump infamously said he could end the war in 24 hours – yet in politics, 24 hours can change a lot. This meeting is a chance to show the US that the EU countries are doing their part in the
Macron’s plan to push Europe’s AI policy ahead
Eighty world leaders are in Paris for the final day of the AI Summit, a key forum for Europe’s renewed push to close the gap with AI powerhouses—the U.S. and China.For years, the high cost of innovation kept Europe on the sidelines. That’s changing. French President Emmanuel Macron said the country has secured more than €100 billion in private funding to drive technological breakthroughs.
Why the EU won’t stop the development aid decline
How Brexit's legacy limits Starmer's EU relationship
Five years after the Brexit referendum, the UK has undergone its biggest change in a century. In Westminister, five prime ministers have tried – and failed – to stabilise the country's political and financial lifeline. Now, it is Starmer’s turn. In Brussels, hopes rest on his success, especially in rekindling diplomatic ties on trade, defence, and youth mobility. Where are we at in negot
How a budget bill could end the French left
For the first time in 60 years, France started the year without a budget bill after December’s vote triggered the collapse of Prime Minister Barnier’s three-month-old government. But this week, new PM Michel Bayrou managed to push through the budget – avoid the New Popular Front alliance's no-confidence vote and secure his own job in the process. Now, the opposition is pointing finger a
Making sense of Trump’s tariffs, what should the EU expect?
After Canada, Mexico, and China, the EU could be next to face the threat of tariffs as Donald Trump’s latest remarks suggest levies on European goods may be imminent. Is Brussels prepared to retaliate? And how might the bloc get entangled in a global trade war?In this episode, host Giada Santana and economy reporter Thomas Moller-Nielsen break down Trump’s strategy—and what it could mean
After California, DeepSeek makes the EU nervous
The new Chinese AI model DeepSeek R1 is making waves worldwide as the start up behind it says it runs at a fraction of the cost of all existing models on the market. That seems impressive. Or sort of. In the EU, at least eleven member states have promptly reacted to the launch, demanding the platform clarification on its privacy policy. Brussels' investigation, on the other hand, has yet
Why the Commission is failing to ease farmers' worries over MERCOSUR
Concerns over the EU’s trade deal with Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay have stalled negotiations for two decades. Now, the agreement is signed – but its opposition is far from sealed. Farmers worry it means unfair competition and fear cheaper, less-regulated imports could threaten their livelihoods. Economy Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič and Agriculture Commissioner Christophe Hanse
An interview with EVP Teresa Ribera, on the political tensions against the Clean Industrial Deal
Less than a month before the publication of the Clean Industrial Deal, executive commissioner Teresa Ribera speaks to host Giada Santana and EET editor Donagh Cagney about competitiveness, environmental NGOs lobbying and the hostile political climate standing in her way.
What the uprising toppling Serbia’s PM means for the country’s EU accession
Not many could have guessed that the 2024 railway accident in Novi Sad, Serbia’s second-largest city, would spark some of the largest protests in the country’s post-Soviet history, ultimately leading to Prime Minister Miloš Vučević's resignation. While demonstrators are demanding accountability for the 15 lives lost in the railway ceiling collapse, they also want greater transparency and
Von der Leyen’s Competitiveness Compass explained
European Commission's President von der Leyen unveils today her 'North Star' of economic strategy: the Competitiveness Compass. Beyond the motto of simplifying and unifying, the document has drawn praise from businesses and raised alarms among unions. What impact will it have on the Union's economic future?In this episode, host Giada Santana talks to Euractiv's economy reporter, Thomas Mo
How Alice Weidel redefined Germany’s far right
By becoming the moderate face of the AfD, Alice Weidel helped transform the party from a fringe movement into a dominant force, forcing its rivals to rethink their electoral strategy. However, Weidel's private life reveals contradictions some argue clash with the traditional values of the far-right movement.She has lived abroad, is openly in a same-sex relationship, and splits her time be
Why the EU’s new crisis force won’t be deployed just yet
The European Union approved its first-ever crisis response unit, a 5,000-strong force designed to address threats outside its borders. However, as EU foreign ministers convene today to once again deliberate on Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine, one thing seems clear: the newly minted crisis unit doesn't look set to be heading to Kyiv – or anywhere else – in the immediate future.Why is
Everybody wants Greenland, but what does Greenland want?
Greenland has come into the limelight after Donald Trump suggested buying the island in late December. The controversy reignited a wish for independence in the world's largest island, and thrown the government in Copenhagen into a political quagmire. In this episode, host Giada Santana speaks with politics reporter Magnus Lund Nielsen, who has been covering the latest developments in Gree
Von der Leyen's Davos economic vision for Europe
As European leaders and the world's most powerful companies descended upon Davos, Switzerland, for the World Economic Forum this week, Commission President Ursula von der Leyen used the summit to unveil plans aimed at boosting the EU’s competitiveness, expanding trade, and attracting much-needed talent.But is the market buying into it? Business leaders might see the EU blueprint short on
How a spy scandal exposed EU's failure to protect its officials
The EU is facing some serious questions about the lack of robust counter-intelligence measures after an investigation revealed that Hungarian secret forces spied on the European Anti-Fraud Office between 2015 and 2017. During this time, the office investigated corruption linked to Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's son-in-law. How could the espionage go unnoticed for three years? And
What the EU stands to lose from Trump 2.0
For his first full day in office as 47th president, Donald Trump is expected to sign as many as 100 executive orders on climate, tariffs and national security. Meanwhile, the European Union remains without clear leadership, as member states such as France, Germany, and Austria grapple with domestic political challenges. What did Trump pledge in his inauguration speech? And what could his
What makes 2025 the lucky year for EV buyers
German carmakers are under pressure. They must meet new EU carbon emission targets. Chinese manufacturers are gaining ground with cheaper, subsidized electric vehicles. A new German government could bring policy changes for the industry.How are German carmakers trying to save the EV market?In this episode, host Giada Santana talks to Jasper Steinlein, a reporter covering energy, the envir
Why Brussels is excluded from the Israel-Hamas peace talks
Israel-Hamas ceasefire talks are hanging by a thread, despite months of brokering from Qatar, Egypt and the United States. Talks are stalling over how far Israeli troops should withdraw, according to what an informed US official told the Associated Press.Despite contributing over €500 million in humanitarian aid to Palestinians over the past 25 years—and pledging another €120 million—the
The EU’s next move as Big Tech gets behind Trump
The incoming Trump presidency is changing the rules of the game for big tech compliance with digital EU regulation. Meta axed its fact-checking team in the United States, while Google did similarly in the EU. On X, Musk now wields the platform as a political megaphone.The potential political ramifications – particularly in terms of misinformation and political interference – are hard to g
Unpacking the Polish Presidency with diplomat Sobkowiak-Czarnecka
For the next six months, Poland will chair the Presidency of the Council of the EU and coordinate the 27 member states under the motto ‘Security, Europe!’. But even just convincing countries to agree on what security means will be extremely difficult. So, how is the Polish presidency preparing for its mandate? "The big task for the Polish presidency will be to foster unity in terms of s
Why Russia wants to leave the Baltics in the dark
Leaders meet today to coordinate on how to better defend the Baltic Sea after the latest incident saw the cutting of four internet and one power transmission cable on Christmas day. EU officials suspect Russia is behind the sabotage. If they are right, this attack marks a step up in the Kremlin’s hybrid warfare strategy. "Towards the end at least of the Cold War, everyone learned the rul
How Austria’s new leader could test the EU and what Brussels can do to push back
The bloc of populists within the European Union might soon expand to include Austria. Herbert Kickl is likely to become Austria’s next Chancellor. Until recently, even his own party thought he was too extreme for the job. Now, his rise comes at a crucial time for Europe’s security concerns, especially given the politician’s favorable stance towards the Kremlin. But Brussels has more than
Top10. How Musk’s White House appointment could test the EU
In this episode, we revisit a significant development in the transatlantic tech landscape: Elon Musk’s controversial appointment as head of the US Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and its potential impact on EU-US relations.Host Giada Santana and Euractiv's Eliza Gritski explore the EU’s probe into X, the implications of Musk’s new role, and what this means for the future of EU
Top10. The climate ambitions of the next EU commission
In this episode, we look back at a critical development in Europe’s green agenda: Teresa Ribera’s appointment by President von der Leyen to steer Europe’s green transition while ensuring its competitiveness.Host Giada Santana and Environment hub editor Donagh Cagney delve into the commissioner nominees and discuss the future of EU energy and environment policy.[Note: This episode was orig
Top10. Von der Leyen launches new EU commission with surprising picks
In this episode, we revisit a pivotal moment in EU politics: Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s unveiling of her proposed team of European Commissioners.Host Evi Kiorri speaks with politics reporter Nicoletta Ionta to unpack the implications of these changes for EU governance.[Note: This episode was originally published on Sep 18th.]
Top10. EU-US trade: what EU economy ministers fear about second Trump term
In this episode, we revisit an important discussion from November 21st, when EU economy ministers convened to tackle the future of EU-US trade relations.With the prospect of a protectionist, pro-tariff Trump administration looming, the talks were anything but straightforward. Key industries like Germany’s automotive sector are already under significant pressure, and the risk of a broader
Top10. Why the EU is divided over the Mercosur trade deal
As we reflect on the key milestones of the past year, we revisit the conclusion of a historic trade agreement between the EU and the Mercosur countries (Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay) on December 6th. After 25 years of negotiations, the deal will create one of the world’s largest free trade zones.In this episode, host Giada Santana and agrifood reporter Sofia Sanchez Manzanaro
Top10. The vote that might end EU anti-deforestation law
As the year winds down, we revisit a critical moment in the EU’s environmental efforts: the European Parliament’s decision on the landmark anti-deforestation law, the EUDR, back on November 14th.In this episode, host Giada Santana and agrifood reporter Sofia Sánchez Manzanaro examine the supporters and detractors of the EUDR and discuss the potential outcomes of the vote.[Note: This episo
Top10. The future of the EU budget behind the leak
Top10. Niinistö report: How the EU must gear up for future crises
As the year comes to a close, we revisit a pivotal conversation on how the EU can brace itself for the challenges ahead. A landmark report by outgoing Finnish president Sauli Niinistö offers a sobering reality check, spanning recommendations from climate change management to intelligence sharing.In this episode, host Giada Santana and politics reporter Nicholas Wallace explore the report’
Top10. German coalition collapse: what European leaders fear
As we reflect on the events that shaped Europe this year, we’re revisiting one of the most dramatic moments in German politics: the collapse of Germany’s coalition government.This political upheaval has left European leaders concerned about its impact on European cooperation, especially as the continent braces for Donald Trump’s potential return to the White House. But how do European lea
Top10. Draghi,The EU to consider report's proposals or face 'slow agony'
As we look toward 2025, we revisit a crucial moment from earlier this year: September 9th, when Mario Draghi presented his highly anticipated report on European competitiveness to President Ursula von der Leyen. The report highlighted the urgent need to boost productivity to achieve the EU’s ambitious political and economic goals.In this episode, host Evi Kiorri and economy reporter Thoma
Looking back at Europe's defining moments of 2024
This year brought seismic changes across Europe: political crises, shifting environmental priorities, and debates about the continent’s industrial strategy.From the Green Deal’s transformation to the US election, we explore how decisions made this year will shape the continent for decades. How did Germany’s government collapse ripple across the EU? What does a more competitiveness-focused
How German parties plan to win voters in upcoming snap elections
Germany’s political groups officially kicked off their campaign trail after Chancellor Scholz lost a no-confidence vote on Tuesday (17 December). With a snap election now set for February, the race is well underway. From their manifestos, both the SPD (S&D) and CDU/CSU (EPP) appear to be carefully calibrating their messaging on key voter concerns – such as aid to Ukraine, economic pol
Why Macron’s bid to stay relevant is falling short
François Bayrou's appointment as France's new prime minister is the latest in a series of questionable political moves Emmanuel Macron has made since June, which have increasingly put the president in a vulnerable position. Outmanoeuvred by his long-time ally Bayrou, who used his political leverage to secure the job, Macron now faces a public growing all the more sceptical of his leadersh
Lessons from the EU's watchdog: Emily O’Reilly on ethics and accountability
The European Parliament will elect the new EU Ombudsman on Tuesday (17 December) to replace Emily O'Reilly, with her successor set to inherit her impressive legacy.In a sit-down interview with Giada Santana, O’Reilly reflected on her time in office, the current political climate, and her landmark inquiry into Frontex.
Digital governance in the era of hybrid warfare, with Estonia’s digital minister
Estonia, a leader in digital governance, is known for remote internet voting, online public services, and digital IDs, earning recognition as the world’s second most digitalized government, according to the United Nations. But its technological advancements have made it a target for cyber interference from Moscow as geopolitical tensions move online.“The propaganda budget for Russia is bi
Why Georgia’s pivot toward Russia may backfire
Georgia’s parliament is set to elect the country’s next president on Saturday (14 December), a vote that could backfire for the ruling Dream Party as it has opted to back pro-Russian candidate Mikheil Kavelashvili. During its four terms in power, Georgian Dream has gradually worked towards eroding democratic institutions - a move that has alienated much of civil society, including top nat
The controversial EU-level talks on borders, smuggling and asylum procedures
Talk of EU migration policy have dominated Brussels this week, with at least 15 EU countries deciding to freeze asylum requests for Syrian citizens and EU leaders set to vote on key matters at the EU Home Affairs Council.EU's migration policy will be high on the political agenda when EU interior ministers meet in Brussels on Thursday (12 December).Key decisions include a vote on extending
The competing regional powers in the way of Syria’s new government
As a transitional government takes shape in Syria, hopes run high for the country to regain its democratic status after a decade-long dictatorship. However, the aftermath leaves a fragmented political scenario that might easily spiral into chaos. From Moscow to Ankara and Teheran, regional powers are competing for relevance through the support of the different armed groups involved in the
What Europe risks losing amid the US-China trade war
The European Union could face unexpected fallout from the latest round of sanctions imposed by Beijing on U.S. markets, as China banned the shipment of three rare minerals critical for building next-generation weapons and military equipment. How does the US-China trade war impact the European Union, and how can Europe protect its defense industry at at such a crucial time? In this episode
Why the EU is divided over the Mercosur trade deal
The EU and four Mercosur countries (Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay) finalised a historic trade agreement on Friday (6 December) after 25 years of talks. First proposed in 1999, the deal will establish one of the world's largest free trade zones – but not everyone seems to be happy about it. The deal has drawn sharp criticism in the Union over environmental and political concerns
Europe holds its breath as Romania heads to the polls one last time
Brussels is on tenterhooks as Romania heads to the polls on Sunday (8 December) to choose between pro-Moscow TikTok star Călin Georgescu and pro-European hopeful Elena Lasconi in the final round of the presidential elections.In a country where one in three citizens trust the government, the semi-presidential system could grant far-right candidate Georgescu significant power to challenge p
The ceasefire in Lebanon and Europe's waning role in the Middle East
The number of violations of the US-brokered ceasefire in Lebanon has surpassed 100 since the ceasefire agreement took effect last Wednesday, casting doubts on hopes for peace between Hezbollah and Israel. Besides condemning the breaches, the EU's absence from the negotiating table during these tense moments raises questions about its relevance in the Middle East.In this episode, host Giad
Explaining Europe's campaign to roll back the protection of wolves
Wolf protection is back on the table for EU lawmakers as they must now reopen talks on the EU's Habitats Directive, a cornerstone of EU biodiversity policy. The Standing Committee of the Bern Convention decided to back a European Commission proposal weakening the protection of wolves on Tuesday (3 December), meaning MEPs must now reconsider one of the EU's flagship biodiversity policies.
Why Michel Barnier’s young government might fall
The current French government might be the shortest-lived in the history of the fifth Republic as opposition parties announced the possibility of a vote of no-confidence on Monday (2 December). Ongoing tense negotiations over financial cuts and taxes have kept the government at risk of falling for the past two months. Why are budget talks threatening a political crisis in France? In this
The real cost of Europe's new competitiveness agenda
When voters cast their ballots in recent European elections, the economy topped their long list of concerns. Shortly after, Commission President von der Leyen assumed office with a clear mission: make Europe more competitive to keep pace with the US and China. But the push for global competitiveness seems to sideline labour and social policies, which have long been seen as hallmarks of Eu
Operation Interflex – BTS from Ukrainian soldiers’ training abroad
In the past two weeks, Russian forces have achieved the fastest breakthrough in eastern Ukraine since the beginning of the invasion. As the Ukrainian army is in dire need of new recruits and equipment, hundreds of soldiers are under special training as part of Operation Interflex, aimed at providing them with vital skills to manage death-threatening situations.What is the operation like?
Parliament’s winners and losers: A conversation with Greens and right-wing ECR
On Wednesday (27 November), the new college of commissioners was approved with 370 votes to 282 against – marking the lowest majority in history. The mandate is filled with uncertainties, except one: the centre-right European People’s Party (EPP) enjoys free rein in Parliament negotiations, with master strategist Manfred Weber cosying up and forging alliances outside the centrist majority
Strasbourg special: EU Parliament’s most burning vote of the year
After weeks of political manoeuvring and backroom deals, MEPs are set to vote today (27 November) on Von der Leyen's next College of Commissioners. While the EP’s greenlight seems certain after EPP, Renew, and S&D struck a platform agreement last week, the incoming College might be sworn in with the narrowest support in recent history. So, where do the different political groups stand
Draghi report, competitiveness and EU corporate reporting requirements facing backlash
European businesses are increasingly concerned about the EU's growing regulatory and reporting requirements, which they say hamper competitiveness and productivity.The combination of high energy prices (well above those in the US) and stringent sustainability and compliance requirements is putting pressure on several industries, and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in particular.
ICC arrest warrants for Netanyahu, Gallant, and Hamas commander – what now?
The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, and Hamas military commander Mohammed Deif, citing alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity during the recent conflict between Israel and Hamas. Both Israel and Hamas have dismissed the allegations, giving predictably polarised respon
What we expect from the last day of COP29
As the global climate summit is expected to wrap up today (22 November) in Baku, Azerbaijan, country ministers have already started tough negotiations around the implementation of the final treaty. All eyes are on the final sum allocated to the new climate finance goal (NCQG), which will determine how many resources developed countries will provide to the global south to limit greenhouse
EU-US trade: what EU economy ministers fear about second Trump term
EU economy ministers will meet today (November 21) to discuss the future of EU-US trade relations although the prospect of a possible protectionist and pro-tariff Trump administration looks set to make for difficult talks.With key industries such as Germany’s automotive sector already under significant pressure and the risk of a wider trade war on the horizon, how is Europe preparing to a
How the European Commission's deadlock might finally break
The European Parliament is on the brink of finalising the new College of Commissioners after weeks of negotiations, according to a draft seen by Euractiv.Spain’s Teresa Ribera fell under scrutiny after October's devastating Valencia floods, and faced fierce opposition from the Spanish wing of the European People's Party (EPP). The political deadlock threatened not only her nomination as v
Can the EU help Ukraine as North Korea sends troops to Russia?
Today marks 1,000 days since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The recent deployment of North Korean troops to Russia's Kursk region, entered by Ukrainian forces in August, signals a major shift in the conflict. North Korea’s involvement, previously seen in arms supplies and meetings between Kim Jong-un and Vladimir Putin, now includes sending troops to the border.This move provide
How Musk’s White House appointment could test the EU
Billionaire Elon Musk’s recent appointment to lead the US Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is expected to send shockwaves across the Atlantic, testing the EU’s regulatory clout in the digital sphere.The European Union and Musk have clashed repeatedly, especially since his $44 billion acquisition of Twitter - now known as X.On 23 December 2023, the European Commission launched an
German snap elections: Everything we know so far
Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s efforts to maintain stability following the collapse of his three-party coalition have come up against fierce opposition and mounting public pressure, sparking a new phase of uncertainty.With a snap election scheduled for 23 February and no-confidence votes looming, the dynamics between party leaders and coalitions are set to shape Germany’s immediate future.To ta
The vote that might end EU anti-deforestation law
On Thursday (14 November), the European Parliament will decide the fate of a landmark anti-deforestation law, the EUDR, which aims to break the link between EU imports and global forest loss. According to the UN, 10 million hectares of forest – an area the size of Portugal – vanish yearly due to unsustainable practices. Proposed amendments, however, threaten to narrow its scope and delay
Commissioner hearings end without conclusions as the real negotiations begin
Tuesday (12 November) marked the last day of hearings at the European Parliament, yet no conclusions were reached – in a clear indication that all political parties have laid their cards on the table and are now negotiating over who gets what. Evaluation meetings have been postponed with no timeline set, leaving many unanswered questions: what is happening behind closed doors, and what ca
COP29 climate summit: what to expect as key world leaders sit out
Delegates from nearly 200 countries are hunkered down for 11 days of intense climate talks at COP29 in Baku, but with prominent leaders noticeably absent, doubts about the summit's potential for progress are looming.Among those who will not be attending are European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, French President Emmanuel Macron, Brazil’s Lula da Silva, and China’s Xi Jinping.
German coalition collapse: What European leaders fear
Germany’s coalition government collapsed on Wednesday, setting the stage for the first minority government in over 40 years and possible snap elections - a turn of events that has European leaders worried. The breakdown, caused by long-running disputes over economic policy and budget constraints, culminated late on Wednesday when Chancellor Olaf Scholz dismissed Finance Minister Christian
How Donald Trump’s comeback will shape the rest of the world
Once-convicted, twice-impeached Republican firebrand Donald Trump will serve a second term as president of the United States, after unprecedented preliminary results in most swing states and some historically blue states confirmed his return to the White House. With both the Senate and House to be controlled by a Republican majority, the businessman-turned-politician is likely to enjoy an
US Election Night: What happened and what it means for the EU
Last night, Americans headed to the polls to shape not only their own future but also that of the rest of the world by voting for the next US president. Kamala Harris and Donald Trump went head-to-head for the US presidency in what is being called the most significant election in decades.The race for the White House is expected to come down to seven key battleground states, and it could t
Šefčovič’s plan to toughen Europe’s trade strategy against US, China
As the world of politics divides its attention between Brussels’ commissioners' hearings and Washington’s election frenzy, Commissioner-designate for Trade Maroš Šefčovič’s interview matters for both sides of the Atlantic. If the European Parliament green-lights him, Šefčovič pledges to reshape Europe’s foreign economic strategy against Beijing's “unfair practices” and Washington’s increa
EPP power play set to shape outcome of Commissioner hearings
The European Parliament hearings of Commissioner-designates will start on Monday afternoon (4 November), but unlike in previous hearings, the European People’s Party (EPP) seems to have the upper hand.With 26 nominees lined up for vetting, each committee in the European Parliament will have the opportunity to scrutinise the candidates' expertise and suitability for their roles. While thes
Niinistö report: How the EU must gear up for future crises
According to a landmark report by former Finnish president Sauli Niinistö, the EU has much to change to be prepared for future crises.The report’s reality check, as he calls it in one paragraph, spans a wide range of recommendations, from climate change management to intel sharing. The Nordic politician suggests the EU could benefit from Finland’s history, at a time when the world faces t
How Putin’s grip on the east could influence EU’s enlargement package
Today, the European Commission unveils its 2024 Enlargement Package, a set of documents shaping Brussels' engagement with Eastern Europe.Last year's document introduced unprecedented policies, including a revamped accession process for the Western Balkans and a pathway for Ukraine to join the Union. As Putin's grip on the region tightens, the EU faces growing pressure to strengthen its en
EU eyes Georgia amid election fraud allegations
Last weekend's parliamentary elections in Georgia have sparked significant controversy amid allegations of electoral manipulation before and during polling day. Key concerns include supposed vote-buying targeting vulnerable groups, misuse of administrative power, and possible tampering with new electronic voting systems. Accusations suggest the ruling Georgian Dream party used voter inti
Why Brussels is keeping its nose out of Washington
With just seven days until the year's most crucial election taking place in the United States, EU political leaders are reluctant to give opinions on future legislation coming from Capital Hill.Given the backdrop of Russian interference, AI-driven disinformation campaigns, and two assassination attempts, the US election campaign may seem like a quagmire for Brussels — a situation best avo
Moldova and Georgia: how domestic struggles threaten EU dreams
Moldova and Georgia are at a crossroads in their paths toward European integration. Just recently, Moldova held a constitutional referendum where voters expressed their desire to enshrine EU aspirations. The contest turned out to be tighter than expected, with allegations of Russian interference and vote-buying. Further southeast on the continent, Georgian voters are preparing to cast the
Commissioners-designate hearings: What to expect in the next phase
The commissioners-designate have responded to questions posed by the European Parliament in writing, kick-starting the first phase of their hearings in early November (4th to 12th).For most members of the European Parliament, there seems to be a collective sense that this composition represents the best possible outcome, given the competing political forces involved. As a result, most pol
Why legal experts are worried about an EU debate on 'return hubs'
Outsourcing the management of migrants is back on the European Parliament's agenda on Wednesday, with EU groups likely to clash over the viability of return centres similar to the one set up under the Italy-Albania deal.This comes after a Rome court forced the government of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to take back the 16 migrants it had sent to the newly set up detention centre
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