Written by Professional journalists
X Versus Europe: France Leads Criminal Case as EU Users Abandon Platform
Elon Musk’s social media platform X is under criminal investigation in France over allegations of data tampering, fraud, and foreign interference—accusations the company vehemently denies, calling them politically motivated. The case deepens tensions between the tech giant and European authorities already pressuring X under sweeping digital regulations.
New EU taxes on cigarettes, the proposal is official: what changes and how much prices may go up
The European Commission has presented two proposals on tobacco. The first: raise EU-wide minimum taxes on cigarettes and other tobacco products, which have not changed since 2010. The second: take 15 percent of states' revenues.
The End of Borderless Europe? A Look Inside the Schengen Slowdown
Celebrating 40 years of existence, the Schengen Area is celebrating by questioning some of its founding principles. Temporary border checks all across Europe are introduced and bring many political and societal considerations.
Europe at a crossroads: Navigating the shift in EU-Israel relations amid the Gaza conflict
As Gaza’s rubble grows, so does Europe’s moral burden. Once a champion of human rights, the EU now faces a critical test: remain complicit in silence or act on its founding values. With public anger rising and diplomatic ties fraying, the pressure is mounting. Will it reclaim its moral voice—or lose it for good?
Romanian Senate employees call for antenna removal or capping of radiation levels
The demand follows drastic measures by Romania’s new pro-European government, including cuts to the so-called “antenna bonus” granted to some public employees for alleged radiation exposure.
A Mediterranean on Fire, A Politics of Silence
The Mediterranean is burning—again. From Greece to Turkey and Syria, wildfires now reshape landscapes and lives. As climate extremes intensify, political systems remain reactive, fragmented, and dangerously unprepared.
Romania could have a “digital maturity” law
The head of the Senate Committee for Defense, Public Order, and National Security, PNL member Nicoleta Pauliuc, says she will submit to Parliament the "Online Adulthood Law" – a legislative initiative that sets the age of digital maturity at 16.
A Breakthrough in Celiac Disease: A New Global Standard Could Change Everything
A brand-new international testing standard might finally take the guesswork out of diagnosing celiac disease — and that’s big news for millions of young Europeans living with unexplained symptoms.
Overtourism as a Phenomenon Or What It Means to Live in a Glass Case
As mass tourism reshapes the Mediterranean, locals push back against rising rents, erasure of community, and cities turned into theme parks. This piece explores overtourism’s impact and calls for a new balance between visiting and belonging.
Drafted by Deception: African migrants in Russia’s war
Lured by promises of work, visas, or safety, African migrants in Russia are coerced into war. Through contracts they can’t read and threats of deportation, they’re funneled to the front lines in Ukraine—stripped of identity, abandoned by nations, and used as disposable soldiers in a conflict they never chose.
Walk, Bike, Survive: Why the WHO Says It’s Time to Rethink Our Streets
Walking and cycling shouldn’t be dangerous — yet every year, over a million people die on the roads. The WHO’s message is clear: it’s time to build cities where moving without a car isn’t a risk, but a right.
A mobile app created in Romania will help parents do science at home using everyday kitchen items
A team from Romania and Finland is working together to create a free educational mobile app that shows parents how to conduct simple science experiments at home, using everyday household items.
Euroinfluencers of the Past [PODCAST]
How did kings, artists and revolutionaries change the world?
![Euroinfluencers of the Past [PODCAST]](https://www.pulse-z.eu/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/grafiki-strona-2-768x432-1-368x270.png)
TikTok bans #SkinnyTok worldwide – but it was France, not Brussels, that made it happen
TikTok responded to direct pressure from the French government by banning the global use of the hashtag #SkinnyTok. The decision raises important questions about the efficacy of EU-level digital regulation.
Language and Identity: Why Minority Communities Need Their Language to Be Seen
For national minorities, language is much more than just a tool for communication. It is a link to their roots, a symbol of belonging, a living history. The right to use one’s language in public spaces is, at its core.
Europe Is (Almost) Green: The EU Edges Closer to Its 2030 Climate Goals
The European Union is getting closer to hitting its 2030 climate targets – but will it get there in time?
Europe’s Gates Close: Greece as a Testing Ground for a New Migration Policy
A decade after the refugee crisis of 2015, Greece has become Europe’s laboratory for a new migration model—one marked by detention, criminalisation, and exclusion. From the barbed-wire camps of Lesbos to the courtrooms of Crete, the human cost of Fortress Europe is no longer an exception, but the rule.
From Fields to Power Plants: Extreme Weather’s Grip on Europe
Droughts cause major issues accross Europe in both energy and food production. What are the current threats and are we ready?
Can We Finally Save The Oceans
In the second week of June, Nice managed to gather all the global interest on ocean protection into one place. President Macron said about the conference, that “never in the history of humanity have we brought together so many people for the oceans.” Is this effort efficient enough to meet the targets that are approaching?
The motion of no confidence against Ursula von der Leyen was rejected: how Italian MEPs voted.
The motion of no confidence in Ursula von der Leyen, who remains at the helm of the European Commission, over the Pfizergate scandal was defeated. A total of 360 MEPs voted against, 175 in favor, and 18 abstained.
“We want elections!”: Serbia is Not Backing Down
Serbians are protesting government corruption since last November. The past weekend's ultimatum by student protest organizers launched a new wave of street blockades, arrests and police violence.
Why the motion of no confidence in Ursula von der Leyen is putting Giorgia Meloni in difficulty
The European Parliament is debating the motion of no confidence against Ursula von der Leyen. This initiative is putting Giorgia Meloni in a difficult position.
L’Ue vuole rimandare la carbon tax, la tassa sulle aziende che inquinano va verso il rinvio al 2027
The EU has introduced a carbon tax on high-emitting imports, effective from 2026. The new Commission proposes to postpone it until 2027 and reduce its impact.
Quiz: When did these countries become EU members?
How confident are you in your knowledge of the EU? Are you good with years and numbers? Do you know when these countries became EU members? Take our quiz and find out.
The European Degree of the Future: Will a Common Academic Label Reshape Universities in the EU?
Europe is dreaming bigger when it comes to education. But how close are we to a truly united academic space?
Who Owns the Voice of Europe?
Who Owns the Voice of Europe? As algorithms shape what we see, hear, and believe, the EU stands at a crossroads: regulate Big Tech from the outside — or build a civic digital space from within.
Will Kanye West Perform on a Field in Bratislava?
Big news in the music industry - controversial musician Kanye West is coming to Bratislava! Or maybe not. At the moment, people who bought tickets have no idea if any event is taking place.
Your Last Chance for Asylum: How the EU Handles Appeals After a Rejection
An effective appeal process isn’t a luxury—it’s a lifeline.
How to Get Away With a Cyberattack on an International Scale
Since 2022, the Chinese government has had access to unclassified communication inboxes of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Czech Republic. Starting during the Czech Republic’s position in the rotating EU presidency, the government of China had access to thousands of emails, now uncovered by a major investigation.
“Choose Europe”: Can the EU Deliver a Future for Young Minds in Science?
“Choose Europe” is the EU’s bold new vision to become a global science hub. But will it deliver real opportunities for young researchers across the continent and beyond?
TikTok Under Fire: Brussels Launches a Crackdown to Defend Democracy
TikTok, the Chinese-owned video-sharing platform, is once again in the spotlight — and not for trending dances or viral memes.
Love Without Permit: Budapest Pride and the Struggle for Visibility
Hungary’s new constitutional amendment banning LGBTQ+ public events signals a deeper authoritarian shift. As Pride becomes a target, protesters, activists, and EU institutions face a critical test of democratic resilience.
Power Play in The Hague: NATO Goes All In
Reporting on the main outcomes and events from the NATO summit in the Hague, the Netherlands, taking place on 24-25th of June.
Editorial Article #2 – New formats, new voices, and a new phase of engagement
With Europe navigating complex geopolitical challenges, PulseZ is evolving, offering multilingual content, on-the-ground events, and dynamic new formats to reflect the continent’s diverse voices and experiences.
We will not die in silence: Bosnia and Herzegovina to adopt a law on femicide
How a grassroots movement in Bosnia and Herzegovina helped create a law on femicide.
Your Career, Your Future: Europe’s PES Helps You Stay Ahead of the Curve
To stay ahead in today's job market, Europe's Public Employment Services are shifting focus, empowering individuals with the tools for long-term career security.
Eva Maydell MEP: Reflections on Europe’s Future and the Role of AI – A Message for Gen-E 2025
Join Eva Maydell, Member of the European Parliament and a leading voice on digital innovation, as she addresses Gen-E 2025 with an inspiring message on the future of Artificial Intelligence in Europe.
Green light for moth larvae “flour” from the EU: the insect coming to our plates
On Monday, January 20, 2025, the European Commission authorized the sale of flour moth larvae powder in EU countries. The product will soon be available in supermarkets. Why the novel food was approved and what are its nutritional properties.
Seneca at the Gym: Stoicism and Toxic Masculinity
Today’s Stoicism isn’t in the Agora, it’s at the gym. Repackaged through TikTok reels and “alpha” podcasts, the ancient philosophy has been stripped of ethics and turned into a lifestyle brand of emotional repression and individual supremacy. Discipline replaces compassion, silence replaces civic duty. This isn’t about inner virtue, it’s about selling strength. But Seneca wasn’t training for dominance. He was training for justice.
From Risk to Resilience: An International Meeting on the Safety of Journalists in Thessaloniki by the ICSJ
The From Risk to Resilience conference in Thessaloniki, organized by the ICSJ, brought together global experts to tackle threats to journalist safety. With input from UNESCO, OSCE, and regional leaders, the event highlighted the need for institutional accountability and trauma-informed support.
Gamifying Nationalism: The AfD and the Politics of Emotional Belonging
Welcome to TikTok Nationalism: a flawless face, a beat drop, and the caption “Germany for the Germans.” Alice Weidel’s speech remixed with synthwave, AI avatars, and shadowy migrant clips. Politics has left parliament for the infinite scroll, where propaganda wears lip gloss and vibes. The AfD doesn’t campaign—it performs. Ultrantionalism becomes aesthetic, identity over ideology. As Marcus Bösch calls it: slopaganda—low-res, emotional, made to go viral. In this gamified nationalism, belief is optional. Just hit share.
Secret Operations or Diplomacy? An Analysis of Recent Developments in Ukraine
What are the most prominent operations of the recent weeks? And what strategic, military and diplomatic partners are currently the most crucial for Ukraine?
Poland’s Youth Crown Conservative in Surprise Presidential Election Twist
The 2025 Polish presidential election ended in a near-perfect tie. In the end, it was the youngest voters who decided the outcome — and surprised everyone.
Reporting on Trends From the Globsec Forum Prague 2025
Coming back from the Globsec Forum 2025 conference in Prague, we cover the newest trends and interesting data points from defense, information threats and security.
First milestone for PulseZ content creators, more to come
Creating a platform for young journalists and other content creators, which gives them space to publish pieces focusing on topics that concern youth and Europe - that is one of the main goals of PulseZ.
Mark Timmermans’ Message for Gen-E 2025 | Empowering Europe’s Young Entrepreneurs
Join Mark Timmermans as he shares an inspiring message for the participants of Gen-E 2025, Europe’s largest youth entrepreneurship festival.
To buy a house in Italy you need 12 years of salary, a special commission is born in the EU: what will it do?
Buying a house in Italy has now become a mirage for about 10 million families with an income of less than 24 thousand euros. For some, it can take up to 12 years of wages. But the problem concerns all of Europe. For this reason, a Special Housing Commission has been established in Brussels, which will be led by Democratic MEP Irene Tinagli.
Hot Words, Weak Action: G20 Off Track on Climate Goals
The world's biggest economies are not on track to meet the targets of the Paris Agreement. To limit global warming to 1.5°C, we need bold and immediate action – yet current strategies are nowhere near enough.
Europe Wants Its Data Back—But What’s a Sovereign Cloud?
The EU wants to protect sensitive data and AI systems from foreign influence. Here’s what’s at stake.
Welcome to Gen-E 2025 in Greece! | Message from Emilios Kyriacou, Chair of JA Greece & Citi CEO
Emilios Kyriacou, Chair of JA Greece and CEO & Banking Head for Citi Greece, Cyprus & Malta, shares a special invitation to all young innovators, educators, and partners across Europe.
The bromance between Trump and Putin
“Putin has gone absolutely crazy” Donald Trump said regarding Russia’s recent escalation in its war on Ukraine. The three-day bombardment was deadly, as Russian strikes killed 13 people, including children. This statement was not on anyone’s Bingo card, considering how much praise Trump sends Vladimir Putin’s way. Is this the end of their geopolitical ‘bromance’?
From Protected to Plated: Carpathian Bears Face Grim Fate
NGOs challenge Slovakia’s killing and reselling the meat of EU protected brown bears. Read about the newest legislation including an interview with an expert in large carnivores.
Italy at the Ballot: The Quiet Referendum of 2025
In the shadow of silence, Italy held a referendum that dared to ask who counts as a citizen and how far employers’ power can reach. With Giorgia Meloni’s government opting for institutional disengagement and public indifference, turnout plummeted, rendering invisible one of the most significant democratic consultations in recent memory.
Not All Microplastics Are as Dangerous as We Thought?
New research finds that saltwater may stop dangerous bacteria from hitching a ride on plastic.
From Brexit to Breakthrough: EU and UK Launch Bold New Era of Cooperation
After years of tension and distance, the European Union and the United Kingdom are turning the page.
EU steps up sanctions against secessionist Bosnian Serb leader Dodik
Bosnia is facing its gravest political crisis in decades as the EU steps up its sanctions against Bosnian Serb leader Milorad Dodik over his secessionist policies.
From Brussels to Moscow: Hungary and Slovakia are Changing Teams
Slovakia and Hungary’s Prime Ministers Robert Fico and Viktor Orbán, respectively, face backlash from the EU, namely the German Chancellor Friedrich Merz due to their attitude towards sanctions against Russia. The two countries’ governments have been on a steady path towards anti-EU and pro-Russian rhetoric for a while now.
Poland’s New President: Karol Nawrocki Wins by a Razor-Thin Margin
High voter turnout, heated rhetoric, and a divided nation—Poland’s presidential race ends with a narrow win for a conservative candidate.
Access Without Borders: Europe’s New Vision for Disability Inclusion
New EU cards are to facilitate mobility and access to services throughout Europe for over 100 million citizens with disabilities. Are we witnessing a breakthrough in building a barrier-free Europe?
Roberta Metsola’s Message to Europe’s Young Changemakers | Gen-E 2025
Join us for a special message from Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament and JA Alumna, as she opens Gen-E 2025 - known as the largest youth entrepreneurship festival in Europe.
Roma in the EU: A Promise of Equality Still Unfulfilled
April 8 marked International Romani Day.
Lost, Lonely, and Logged In: The Unseen Struggles of Europe’s Youth
Young people across Europe are really struggling with their mental health. It's a growing problem, and even though we have the stats to prove it, there's no real plan yet to deal with it together.
Poland’s Presidential Race: A Nation Divided, A Vote Hanging by a Thread
As Poland heads into the final days of its presidential campaign, the nation remains deeply polarised - and the outcome of the presidential runoff on June 1st is still far from certain.
Two Massive Marches in Warsaw
Warsaw witnessed two major political demonstrations on Sunday, as supporters of the two presidential candidates - Rafał Trzaskowski and Karol Nawrocki - took to the streets in competing marches, just one week ahead of the decisive second round of Poland’s presidential election.
Heat, Floods, and Fire: Europe’s Climate Crisis Hits Hundreds of Thousands
In 2024, extreme weather events impacted over 400,000 Europeans, with record heat, floods, and wildfires highlighting the urgent need for climate action.
Profits Over Privacy? Google Brings Back Tracking in Chrome
Despite previous promises, Google has decided that its Chrome browser will continue supporting third-party advertising cookies – a decision that many experts see as a major blow to digital privacy.
Culture Under Pressure: What Young Europeans Expect from the EU
New Eurobarometer data shows culture isn't a luxury – it’s the glue that holds Europe together.
Liberty Lost? Statue Becomes Pawn in US-France Political Feud
A French politician just told the U.S. to give back the Statue of Liberty - and sparked an international war of words over what the iconic symbol really stands for.
Mediterranean in Trouble: Is disaster approaching?
The Mediterranean Sea - known for its beauty, biodiversity, and vital role in the region’s economy - is facing a serious threat: a growing shortage of freshwater.
Trying to Go Green? The EU Might Be Chopping Down Forests to Do It
The EU’s push for greener energy is hitting a snag - experts warn that climate policies meant to cut emissions may actually be driving deforestation.
Fake Jerseys, Real Crime: How the EU Is Tackling Sports Counterfeits
Sport is about passion, fair play, and unity - but not everyone plays by the rules. Just before the final of Spain’s famous Copa del Rey football tournament, authorities intercepted a massive shipment of fake sports gear. The EU and Spanish police teamed up to stop counterfeiters from cashing in on fans' enthusiasm.
The Dark Web of Recruitment: How Young People Are Becoming Hired Guns for Terror
Forget the glamourised version of gangs from movies - today’s criminal underworld paints a much darker picture. Across Europe, teens are being recruited not for petty crimes, but for tasks once reserved for hardened criminals.
The AI Code of Conduct: A Tool for Trust or a Shield for Big Tech?
So, this "AI Code" was supposed to be all about being open and honest with how AI is being made. But now, people in the know are getting worried. Is this just another set of rules that's gonna fall apart?
SUN4Ukraine: Building Back Greener – Helping Ukrainian Cities Go Climate-Friendly with EU Support
Amid the rubble of war, a green vision is taking root in Ukraine, fueled by European solidarity. The EU's SUN4Ukraine initiative is stepping in to ensure that as Ukrainian cities rebuild, they do so not just to restore what was lost, but to leapfrog towards a sustainable, climate-neutral future.
Greening Europe: From Smarter Design to a Full Circle Economy
The EU is pushing harder to make its economy more circular. This time, the focus is on stopping companies from just throwing away unsold stuff and making energy labels on products even better.
Win a trip to Athens!
DEADLINE EXTENDED! You can be among the 8 young journalists and content creators from the PulseZ community to attend the Gen-E 2025 Youth Entrepreneurship Festival this summer in Athens!
Europe in Big Tech’s Grip: Still Hooked on US Digital Power?
For years, the European Union has talked a big game about being digitally independent. But when you look at what's actually happening, Europe is still firmly in the clutches of American tech giants.
MEP Maria Walsh: Why Youth Mental Health Must Be a Top EU Priority | #Gen_E Talks
In this #Gen_E Talks video, Irish MEP Maria Walsh-one of the European Parliament’s leading voices on mental health-speaks directly to young people about the urgent need to prioritise youth mental health across Europe.
Can the EU ban X? It’s not that simple
A surge of intense debate has erupted across the European Union recently over the prospect of restricting or banning the social media platform X (formerly Twitter). Is this a legally feasible action, and does it align with the values of a democratic society?
Is the European Commission too dependent on Microsoft?
The European Commission's heavy reliance on U.S. tech giant Microsoft is raising growing concerns about data security and digital sovereignty. Could open-source software be the way forward? Some EU leaders think so - but making that leap will require bold decisions and deeper European cooperation.
STEP Forward: Europe’s Big Bet on Homegrown Tech Takes Off
In its first year, the STEP platform has mobilised over €15 billion to drive the development of key technologies. Could this mark a turning point for Europe's technological independence?
Trust the Algorithm? Not So Fast – How Human Bias Still Rules AI Decisions
We like to think of AI as neutral, objective, and fair. But what happens when human bias slips through the cracks -c or worse, takes the driver's seat?
Scrolling into Trouble: How Social Media Affects children and Teens
Are your likes and scrolls secretly shaping your mind and body? A new report dives deep into the wild world of online platforms and how they're really affecting today's children and teens. Get ready to have your feed flipped.
Infograph: How Romanian teens use Tik-Tok
Over 84% of teenagers aged 14 to 19 with a TikTok account access the platform daily, and more than half of them (53.4%) access it more than four times a day and spend more than three hours daily.
Illegal employment of foreigners: How do EU countries combat the issue?
The illegal employment of foreigners remains a major challenge in the EU, straining tax revenues and social security systems.
Toxic social media content affects girls in Romania
In March, a month dedicated to women and their value in society, World Vision Romania draws attention to a growing phenomenon affecting more and more girls and young women: constant exposure to toxic content on social media.
Second-hand goes digital – but are your consumer rights safe?
As online shopping becomes second nature, the second-hand market is booming—especially among young people across Europe who care about sustainability and conscious consumption. But a recent EU-wide inspection reveals that over half of online sellers of used goods might be bending—or breaking—the rules meant to protect you.
Human smuggling like pizza delivery. Telegram — a haven for dealers and terrorists?
The paper-plane logo of the Telegram app is no longer just a familiar sight on the smartphones of Russians, Ukrainians, or Kazakhs. For some, it’s a space to chat with friends or follow their favorite influencers. For others, it’s a place to buy drugs—or even sabotage a weapons shipment to Ukraine.
PulseZ monthly editorial – April edition
Dear readers and followers of PulseZ! The PulseZ platform is already up and running, which is a perfect occasion for us, the Editors-in-chief, to share with you a few words.
Work Hard, Rest Harder: The Gen Z Guide to Beating Burnout
You're not just tired — you're running on empty, dreading Monday before Sunday even ends. Sound familiar? Burnout isn’t just a buzzword — it’s a real, creeping problem that’s hitting young professionals harder than ever. Here’s what you need to know to spot it early, fight back, and protect your peace.
Skills lagging, time ticking: Europe’s digital deadline looms
Alarming data on digital competencies of adult EU citizens: Is there a chance to improve the current results?
Looking for a job in the EU? Discover EURES
Finding work in a different country can be tough, but EURES makes it easier. This EU program helps people find jobs abroad and assists employers in finding the skilled workers they need. It's more than just an idea – it's a real program that's already helped countless people.
Should I stay or should I go? How a MEP addresses young Romanians’ dilemma
In recent years, surveys have consistently shown that nearly half of Romania’s young people are considering leaving the country - either temporarily or for good.
Women Leading the Way in EU Master’s and PhD Programs
Women are taking the lead in higher education across the EU, making up nearly 60% of master’s students and almost half of PhD candidates. While female students dominate fields like education, health, and social sciences, they remain underrepresented in tech and engineering.
Google vs. News Publishers: The Battle Over Content and the Future of Journalism
Did Google just run a test or are they dodging copyright fees? Google removed news from some EU search results and pissed off a lot of people. Publishers say Google is trying to avoid paying them, but Google claims it's not making much money from news.
Women Gaining Ground in Parliaments and Governments Across the EU
The proportion of women in national parliaments and governments across the EU has risen over the past ten years, but the disparity between countries remains vast, ranging from almost 50% female representation in Sweden and Finland to only 14% in Cyprus, according to Eurostat data.
Saro, the first motivational AI in education, could reduce university dropout rates in Romania
Romanian students now have access to Saro, the first proactive motivational AI assistant in education.
Why do politicians love Signal? And why do they keep messing up?
In today’s digital world, politicians rely more than ever on messaging apps to communicate confidentially. Among them, Signal has become the go-to choice for government officials in Europe and the US. But why is it so popular, and why do politicians keep making embarrassing mistakes when using it?
