Bulgaria’s anti-corruption protests explained – and why they matter for the EU
European leaders have stood by as Bulgarians demand real reform on corruption. But such silence will only harm the EU in the long run.
National Politics
The proof of the European Council pudding will be in the eating
EU leaders need to show that they are not only capable of reaching an agreement between themselves, but also of shaping the post-coronavirus world
A Schuman plan for the eastern Mediterranean
The EU should look to its own history as it aims to secure its own interests and resolve tensions in the eastern Mediterranean
A country under the influence: Russian interference in British politics
The UK’s ostensible new “ethical foreign policy” stands up to little scrutiny – not least as the government’s preferred form of Brexit limits chances it will ever enact such a policy.
An election in Belarus: How the West could support a marginalised opposition
In the run-up to a difficult election for President Alexander Lukashenka, the three main opposition candidates have been excluded from the vote and there have been mass arrests. Western countries should try to deter further repression in Belarus without isolating the country.
Germany’s belated debate on colonialism
Initiatives designed to change German attitudes towards colonial history will be important in improving Germany’s relations with African countries
Poland under Duda: A divided country, dividing Europe
The Law and Justice party has consolidated its power inside Poland by retaining the presidency – but battles with Brussels and a victory for Biden could cause it trouble
Instrumental solidarity: Hungary’s management of the coronavirus crisis
The Orbán government’s demonstrations of European solidarity have been partly motivated by its nationalist goals and its concerns about migration
Italy’s chance in Libya
The tide of Libya’s war is turning against renegade general Khalifa Haftar. Italy should seize this opportunity to lead European countries to a harmonised Libya policy.
European Solidarity Tracker: The solidarity that always was there
ECFR’s new tracker reveals the breadth and depth of solidarity expressed throughout Europe during the coronavirus crisis – with findings that will surprise critics.