Articles
Does China see Germany as a gateway to Europe? Easing the rare earth metals dispute
The warming of trade relations between Germany and China could reshuffle the balance of power in Europe. Beijing is increasingly focusing on Berlin, hoping to influence the policies of the entire EU through its largest economy.
Europe’s green impulse: how the EU drives global climate investment
The EU is taking the lead in the global fight against the climate crisis, investing billions of euros both in developing countries and in its own transformation. How is the European Union mobilizing private capital and international financial mechanisms to tackle the most urgent challenge of our time?
Chinese pressure on a British university? Police investigate interference in academic freedom
British counterterrorism police are investigating a case that may reveal previously unknown details about Chinese influence on European universities. At stake are academic freedom, human rights, and the fate of the persecuted Muslim minority in China.
Moscow signals retaliation should the US restart nuclear tests
The Kremlin has responded to Donald Trump’s decision to restart American nuclear tests — and is threatening to do the same. Is the world on the brink of a new nuclear arms race?
Latvia: Withdrawal from the Istanbul Convention Paused After Presidential Veto and Mass Protests
Latvia has become the first EU country to decide to withdraw from the Istanbul Convention – a document regarded as a cornerstone of Europe’s fight against violence against women. The parliamentary decision has divided society and sparked mass protests in Riga.
EU responds to Chinese sanctions with a new plan: a battle for rare Earth metals
The EU is accelerating plans for joint purchasing and storage of rare earth metals following China’s export restrictions. The Union wants to avoid a repeat of the energy crisis and is stepping into a new era of resource geopolitics.
A new era of cooperation: the EU invests in Egypt through European programs
The European Union and Egypt are strengthening cooperation in key areas — from the economy and science to regional security. A historic summit opens a new chapter in relations that could have significance far beyond the borders of both parties.
The end of cheap fashion from China? France draws the line
In Paris, the European fashion industry signed a declaration against ultra-fast fashion and cheap clothing from China. France’s initiative could reshape the fashion market and the way we shop for clothes online.
New “Air Silk Road” from China to Europe – opportunity or threat?
Hundreds of cargo flights from China to Europe are stirring controversy due to the risk of forced labor in Xinjiang. Experts warn that the development of the “Air Silk Road” places Europe in a difficult position, caught between trade and ethics.
European food prices under the microscope: surprising differences across the continent
Food prices in Europe can be surprising—what costs a fortune in one city can be bought for a fraction of the price in another. Differences can be as much as several dozen percent, and some capitals turn out to be cheaper than you might expect.
Growing disappointment with democracy in the EU: What do recent studies reveal?
Democracy in the European Union is wavering under the weight of growing citizen disappointment, although support for joint actions and integration remains surprisingly strong. The latest research reveals a complex picture of public sentiment in Poland and Europe—full of contradictions, tensions, but also hope for a new model of community.
Young Europeans on the Travel Map – Where and Why Are They Going?
Young Europeans are increasingly setting out to travel across the continent, from sunny beaches to lesser-known cities. They are aided by low-cost flights, EU programs, and popular exchange and volunteering platforms.
The true cost of Paris 2024: billions over budget
The cost of organizing the Games in Paris has exceeded the original estimates by billions of euros. The French Court of Auditors reveals who spent public money and what it was spent on.
Democracy on the edge: young Europeans are losing faith
Young Europeans are rethinking democracy – and not always in a good way. A new survey reveals surprising trends in trust, political views, and the quiet rise of authoritarian temptations across the continent.
No More Smoke on Beaches and in Parks – France Introduces Strict Smoking Ban
France is preparing a revolution in its fight against smoking by introducing a public smoking ban starting in July to protect children and change societal attitudes towards the habit. Could this mark the beginning of the end of tobacco smoke in France?
Girls in Crisis: The Growing Mental Health Divide Among Teens
Young people across Europe are facing a growing mental health challenge. Recent research reveals worrying differences between boys and girls, as well as between countries. For the first time, the ESPAD study looked not only at substance use but also at how teenagers feel mentally and emotionally.
Harvard Sues the Trump Administration. Battle for Academic Freedom or chance for European education?
Harvard at the Center of a Political Storm: Ban on Foreign Student Enrollment and Faculty Departures Threaten Its Status. Is This the Beginning of the End for American Scientific Dominance?
Korea Goes Global: Why Europe Can’t Get Enough of Hallyu
Hallyu — the Korean Wave — is taking Europe by storm, not just through music and K-dramas, but also thanks to the skyrocketing popularity of Korean beauty products. As South Korea and the EU deepen their economic ties, new opportunities are opening up for business and consumer markets across the continent.
A New Era for Europe? Record Support for the EU
Can Europeans’ trust in the European Union grow in the face of crises and global challenges? The latest data shows record support for EU institutions and shared values.
Chinese “Artificial Sun” – A Path Toward Clean, Inexhaustible Renewable Energy
In the face of growing climate challenges, Chinese scientists have taken a significant step toward a technology that could become an inexhaustible source of clean energy. The success of the "artificial sun" marks a new chapter in the search for a safe and renewable alternative to fossil fuels.