The EU–Mercosur Agreement: Balancing Economic Gains with Environmental Challenges
After more than two decades of painstaking negotiations, the EU-Mercosur association agreement stands at a crossroads, hailed as an economic game-changer but criticized as an environmental gamble. Can this ambitious agreement deliver prosperity without compromising the planet?
The Role of Monetary Policy in Europe’s Housing Crisis
How the European Central Bank’s monetary decisions, from ultra-low rates to rapid hikes, have shaped the housing market—widening inequalities, burdening renters, and fuelling affordability challenges.
Energy, Diplomacy, and Change: The EU-GCC Partnership in a New Geopolitical Era
After decades of unsuccessful attempts at building closer ties, the EU and the GCC are now entering a new era of partnership
BRICS by 2049: A China-Dependent Counter to the West?
As China’s economy decelerates, concern lingers among BRICS members over whether its Chinese powerhouse can rally the bloc and revive growth to sustain the bloc’s future relevance.
Slovakia’s Crisis Deepens Under Fico: Economic Decline and Political Polarization
With Robert Fico’s return to power, Slovakia finds itself navigating turbulent waters. The country is grappling with economic hardship, crumbling healthcare, and a surge in polarizing political rhetoric. Accusations, resignations, and controversial policy decisions have correlated with increasing doubt among citizens on the nation’s trajectory.
The Reduction of International Students in Dutch Higher Education
How the Dutch government wants to reduce international students and what it means for the position of its knowledge economy.
Barnier’s Challenge: Leading a Right-Wing Government in a Left-Leaning Legislature
As France’s new Prime Minister, Michel Barnier, faces opposition from a powerful left-wing bloc and divisions within his conservative party, will the land of protests accept this new government or seek to dismantle it?
Risks and Rewards of an ECB Rate Cut
A powerless ECB without complementary fiscal policy?
Sacrificing Serbia for the EU’s EV Industry and Lithium Batteries
In the shadow of Europe’s green ambitions, Serbia is becoming a quiet casualty. Learn the deeper story of lithium, local lives, and the hidden cost of the EU’s electric dreams.
The EU’s Pursuit of Technology Sovereignty: Can It Lead or Follow?
Despite its regulatory power, Europe’s innovation is hindered by fragmentation and underinvestment. As the tech race accelerates, the new Commission must urgently break free from foreign reliance and ignite the innovation Europe desperately needs to stay competitive.
Prinsjesdag: A Summary of the 2025 Dutch Budget
With the end of more than a decade of centrist conservative-liberal governance, the Netherlands has moved further right, and so has its budget.
Venezuela Crisis: The Struggle for Democracy and Economic Survival
Amidst claims of electoral fraud and widespread protests, Venezuela’s political and economic crises continue to deepen, challenging the nation’s future and the stability of the region and drawing international disapproval.
