UK/EU: Brexit tensions return – Next steps
Following remarks by UK Minister of State Lord Frost in Lisbon today, EU Commissioner Maros Sefcovic will on 13 October unveil proposals to simplify the operation of the Northern Ireland protocol. The EU will offer that items of cultural importance and unlikely to be sent on to t… Become a member to read the […]
POLAND: Implications of the Constitutional Tribunal ruling
The deepening rule of law dispute between Warsaw and Brussels heightens the risk of further restrictions on Poland’s access to EU funds. Reduced EU funding and rising concerns about Poland’s future membership in the EU could erode voter support for the ruling Law and Justi… Become a member to read the rest of this […]
UK: After conference season, the policy work begins
It is important not to read too much into the annual gatherings of the party faithful. However, the Conservative conference reflected that PM Boris Johnson is very much in control of his party. No serious cabinet or backbench rebellions followed even from controversial moves such… Become a member to read the rest of this […]
RUSSIA/UKRAINE: US-German deal on Nord Stream 2 gives Moscow leverage over Kyiv
The US-German agreement allowing the completion of the Nord Stream 2 pipeline represents a political victory for Moscow. Nord Stream 2 is expected to substantially lower Russian gas shipments through Ukraine after 2024 thereby limiting Kyiv’s revenue from transit and heigh… Become a member to read the rest of this article
CZECH REPUBLIC: Opposition wins but government formation depends on Zeman
The three-party center-right coalition Together achieved an unexpected victory in the 8-9 October elections for the lower chamber of parliament and is best- positioned to form the next government. However, the timing and process of government formation depends on President Milos … Become a member to read the rest of this article
GERMANY: “Traffic light” perspectives for European and fiscal issues
The preparatory talks of recent days have led to the launch of exploratory negotiations for a “traffic light” coalition of the Social Democrats (SPD) with the Greens and the center-right Liberals (FDP). These are still not detailed coalition talks; nevertheless, this format is in… Become a member to read the rest of this article
EUROPE: Managing the pandemic – what we are watching
This updated weekly piece provides snapshots of how selected European governments are dealing with the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you want to discuss any of the countries mentioned in more detail. United Kingdom – With around 33,000 cases… Become a member to read the rest of this […]
ITALY: A noisier political backdrop but Draghi won’t lose much sleep over it
The main takeaway from the 3-4 October local elections is that the outcome will not cause any major problem to Prime Minister Mario Draghi’s government. The former ECB chairman, who enjoys approval ratings close to 70%, remains unchallenged. Draghi’s main source of strengt… Become a member to read the rest of this article
SPAIN: Ruling coalition stronger than it looks
As expected, the Socialist Workers’ Party (PSOE) and far-left Unidas Podemos reached an agreement on the draft 2022 budget on 5 October, which the government is expected to approve and send to the Congress of Deputies (lower chamber) in the coming hours. While it remains unclear … Become a member to read the rest […]
CZECH REPUBLIC: ANO set to win, but government formation could get complicated
The ruling Action of Dissatisfied Citizens (ANO) is set to win the elections to the Chamber of Deputies and get a first chance at forming the next cabinet. ANO’s prospects of securing a majority in parliament depend largely on the performance of its potential coalition par… Become a member to read the rest of […]