Observing Russia’s elections
Whatever the electoral outcome, Putin wins. But this time, the manner of the Russian strongman?s victory will undermine not only Russian democracy; but the credibility of Europe?s democracy-promotion.
Wider Europe
A month for hard power
There?s a real risk that, in the weeks between now and Christmas, the EU will face violence in either Kosovo, where 15,000 European troops underwrite security, or Lebanon where 8,000 Europeans have made up the backbone of the UN peace force
Ukraine: Finally a new Parliament, but no new government
The new Ukrainian parliament finally assembled on Friday, 23 November, almost two months after the elections. It then immediately adjourned until Thursday 29 November. An update on Ukraine’s complex political developments.
Balkan ghosts still haunt Europe
Even though Europe’s foreign policy reach is now truly global, talks on Kosovo’s independence have seen Balkan ghosts return to haunt Europe
A ?Power Audit? of EU 27-Russia relations
Despite its economic strength and military might, the EU has begun to behave as if it were subordinate to an increasingly assertive Russia. Read ECFR's “Power Audit” of EU-Russia relations.
Guardian: Russia as the new Donald Rumsfeld
Russia has emerged as the most divisive issue in the European Union since Donald Rumsfeld split the European club into ?new’ and ?old’ member states. Read an opinion piece published through Project Syndicate.
Burma and Uzbekistan: The EU?s Muddle
European double-standards on Burma and Uzbekistan will hurt the EU’s interests and democracy in both countries
Ukraine Goes to the Polls: Another Year, Another Crisis?
After years of political stagnation, 2008 will be a key year for Europe and the Ukraine