Scotland’s Arctic dream of independence
The Scottish government is developing a foreign policy, and its Arctic vision is one of its most ambitious efforts yet. Should independence come, close friends in the north could be a vital support
Commentary
Moldova’s gas deal with Russia: David tries to draw with Goliath
The EU should learn from Moldova’s response to its gas crisis. It would be a mistake to link Russian concessions on energy prices to talks in areas such as trade policy
Why COP26 will fail
UN Climate Change Conferences have failed to produce a model of global governance that can tame power politics, let alone forge a sense of shared destiny among countries. And there is little reason to believe this time will be different
Sebastian Kurz: The chancellor in the shadows
Unless the European Union urgently addresses the growing threat to the rule of law, it will set a dangerous precedent of tolerance for corruption and lawlessness among the European political elite
The climate trust gap: How the EU can bridge divides in Glasgow
The EU risks losing the confidence of developing nations when it comes to the green transition. But it can bridge this trust gap, if it takes action at COP26 and beyond
Russia’s ‘gas pivot’ to Asia: How Europe can protect itself and pursue the green transition
Europeans need to pay closer attention to Russia’s growing opportunities to sell gas to China and other countries in Asia – otherwise they could be left even more at Moscow’s mercy
Sudan coup attempt: How Europe can defend Sudan’s transition to democracy
Sudan’s civilian protest movement is fighting for democracy. Europe can play a decisive role, but to do so its condemnation must come with consequences
The road back to democracy in central Europe
The selection of a lead opposition candidate in Hungary is a promising sign for the strength of democracy in Europe. Democrats throughout the EU should lend their support to restoring the rule of law
Nuclear talks under Raisi: Iran’s diplomats are going slow to appear smart
Western observers are despairing at the lack of progress on Iran nuclear talks. But the Raisi administration and the Iranian people both want sanctions relief to help the economy – meaning there is still cause for optimism
Iraqis vote to restrain armed groups
In the wake of Iraq’s parliamentary election, European states should be highly cautious about publicly engaging with Iraqi policy on armed groups. They should only help Baghdad deal with this issue following a direct request