European politics news covering EU institutions, national governments, elections, far-right and populist movements, and major policy debates across Europe.
The article examines the concept of a 'political firewall' against Germany's AfD, detailing Chancellor Friedrich Merz's evolving stance from strict exclusion to pragmatic cooperation. It highlights the tension between maintaining democratic safeguards and the CDU's recent legislative alliances with the far-right party.
Janan Ganesh argues that Europe's aesthetic appeal and cultural richness are paradoxically its greatest liabilities, hindering economic dynamism and political cohesion. The commentary suggests that this 'beauty' fosters complacency, preventing the region from adopting the aggressive growth strategies seen elsewhere.
European Parliament President Roberta Metsola paid tribute to former Estonian Prime Minister Siim Kallas following his death at age 77. The passing was announced by his daughter, EU foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas, on Saturday. Siim Kallas served as Estonia's first European Commissioner starting in 2004.
Siim Kallas, a former Prime Minister of Estonia and long-serving European Commissioner, has died at the age of 77. His daughter, EU foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas, confirmed the news via social media. Kallas held key roles including vice-president and transport commissioner from 2010 to 2014.
The article argues that Europe's record-breaking heat waves and droughts are influencing voter behavior, with political parties capitalizing on climate concerns. It suggests these effects are surprising and likely involve unexpected political actors rather than traditional environmental groups.
The Irish Times argues that EU border security is an existential necessity driven by Russian hybrid warfare and migration, not militarization. It highlights Estonia, Finland, and Italy as frontline states justifying increased defense spending, while urging Ireland to abandon its passive neutrality during its EU presidency.
Ulrich Siegmund is campaigning for the Alternative for Germany party ahead of the September 6th Saxony-Anhalt state election. With polling at 43%, the AfD aims to win an absolute majority and establish a model for potential federal power by 2029.