Europe’s Vote, Europe’s Future
The European Parliament elections in June will be the most consequential yet.
Europe’s Impossible Middle East Mission
The EU has despatched a maritime mission to the Red Sea, in defense of maritime security and the freedom of navigation. Whether or not the root cause—Israel’s war in Gaza—is brought to an end will determine success or failure.
Germany Needs to Recover Its European Spirit
The government of Chancellor Olaf Scholz set out to define its foreign and security policy in “the European interest,” but has regularly failed to do so. It should change course now.
The UK-Shaped Hole in Organizing Europe’s Security
The Weimar Triangle of France, Germany, and Poland is now supposed to propel Europe’s response to Russia’s war against Ukraine, but it isn’t working. Including the United Kingdom is essential.
The EU’s Desultory 2040 Emissions Reduction Pledge
The fine print for Europe’s ambitious reduction goal—90 percent by 2040—is on the line in Europe’s upcoming elections.
The European Parliament Does More than You Think
European voters are in the habit of treating the European Parliament elections every five years as inconsequential protest votes based on national issues not related to the EU. But if they vote for the far right, it will have major economic, environmental, and geopolitical consequences.
The New Quantum Technology Race
With China and Russia collaborating on quantum technologies, the international race for superiority in this field is heating up. And Europe is well positioned to keep the pace.
The Bundeswehr Returns to the Indo-Pacific
Germany’s navy and air force are planning to beef up their participation in various military exercises halfway around the world in 2024. This speaks of a clearer strategy vis-à-vis China and the region.
Trouble at the Top
It’s not much of a secret that Emmanuel Macron and Olaf Scholz are very different characters. Their deepening rift is damaging the Franco-German relationship—and Europe.
The European Union’s Hungary Problem
The Orbán government’s upcoming presidency of the Council of the European Union has sparked criticism. More important, however, is the question of how the EU deals with a member state that breaks away from the principles of the rule of law.
Europe Needs a Nuanced Approach to Disinformation in African Elections
Africa is experiencing significant democratic backsliding in many countries. In their programs to support democratic elections, European funders should try to ensure they don’t play into the hands of authoritarians.
The Great Extraction
Competition for critical raw materials such as lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements is in full swing. If Europe wants to be a successful player, it must coordinate its efforts better.