The benefits of political fragmentation
The EU's new pluralism has made public debate more political, as parties and groups have become careful to protect their distinct identities
Commentary
EU support for Lebanon: If not now, when?
The Lebanese desire for change is not going to go away. The EU should place itself at the heart of smoothing this transition
The makings of a “geopolitical” European Commission
As if incoming European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen was not already inheriting a full plate of major challenges, she has also promised to reshape the EU into a “geopolitical” force to be reckoned with. To succeed, she will need to pass seven tests, in areas ranging from climate change to cyber security and competition policy
Italy’s Libyan conundrum: The risks of short-term thinking
By prioritising short-term gains in irregular migration and energy security, Italy and the EU have helped create an unsustainable security and political situation in Libya
Farming versus foreign policy: The future of the EU budget
The EU’s global role matters to member states, but investing in it is not political leaders’ top priority
Germany’s quiet leadership on the Libyan war
Although Germany’s mediation role in the Libyan conflict has received relatively little attention so far, this might change if its initiative leads to a peace conference – or, alternatively, a collapse of the political process
The Lost Promise of 1989
As is often the case, deep historical shifts tend to show up first in popular culture, and only then in formal politics. That is why we should look at the complex legacy of 1989 not only in the formal celebrations being held in Berlin, but also in the stands of a soccer stadium in Sofia
Sudan’s chance for democracy
EU support for Sudan’s new prime minister is welcome in addressing the urgent challenges of the country’s political transition. But it will take more than economic reform to bring peace and stability to Sudan
Belarus votes: Could its verdict matter?
Belarus could be standing on the brink of change. The EU should not ignore events on its outer border – and, indeed, should look for new ways to engage its neighbour
Can regulation save the Internet? The view from London
Figures from across government, the private sector, and wider society argue in favour of adequate regulation to mitigate the harmful effects of the internet. But what should this regulation look like?