Time for Straight Talking on German Security
Germany needs to shape its own security context and that starts with its politicians speaking honestly with the public about risks and threats, and taking clear foreign policy stances.
Advancing Europe: Green for Danger?
In France, the prospect of the Greens entering the German government this fall raises both hopes and fears.
New Defense Realities
At the close of the Merkel era Germany’s armed forces face a wide array of challenges most political parties have not even started to acknowledge, never mind address.
Advancing Europe: Forging a New British-German Relationship
2021 marks the end of both the Brexit process and the Merkel era, as well as the likelihood of the Greens entering the German government. How will these changes impact bilateral relations with London?
Great Expectations (I): Time for a Südpolitik. A View from Spain
Many in Madrid hope that a post-Merkel government will accept that a monetary union is impossible without a fiscal union. In this and other areas, paying more attention to Spain would be a chance to advance the EU.
The Stakes are High
Angela Merkel’s slow and deliberate approach to issues important to Washington has impeded a transatlantic kick-start. The Biden administration hopes her successor will give the relationship new momentum.
In Search of the Next Partner
French President Emmanuel Macron has banked on Franco-German cooperation, an approach that finally proved successful in 2020. With Angela Merkel leaving the scene, he needs to build bridges to her potential successors, and quickly.
Learning the Tough Lessons of Vaccine Geopolitics
Within a few weeks the EU will have vaccinated the same share of its population as the United States and the United Kingdom. But Brussels will not forget the vaccine-hoarding behavior of the EU’s Western allies.
Merkel’s Final Act
During her last few weeks in office, the German chancellor seems to be trying one last big thing: rejigging the West.
Defying History
French voters often punish their presidents by refusing them reelection. However, Emmanuel Macron’s brand of relatively unideological third way politics seems to resonate with the electorate. His chances of securing a second term look good.
Great Expectations (II): Clearing the Air. A View from Poland
Germany’s approach to relations with Poland in recent years has been characterized by caution. A new government in Berlin that includes the Greens could shake things up, ultimately for the better.
Super Mario
With the former ECB President Mario Draghi at the helm, Italy is finally making a comeback as a major European player.