By Martin Banks A new survey indicates broad support among EU citizens for maintaining the ban on seal products derived from commercial hunting. The survey, which assessed public opinion on the EU Seal Trade Regulation, was published on 2 August. Its authors say it underscores the continued importance of protecting animal welfare and upholding ethical […]
By Martin Banks The number of attacks on Sinti and Roma registered in Germany nearly doubled in 2023, according to a new report. The Antiziganism Reporting and Information Center (MIA), a federal data tracking agency in Germany, recorded 1,233 such cases — up from 621 in 2022. In all, authorities recorded 50 violent attacks, 10 […]
By Martin Banks The EU says “systematic concerns” remain about the rule of law in some countries. It goes on to warn that the situation has “further deteriorated.” The concerns are addressed in the recommendations of this year’s “Rule of Law Report”. The report covers four areas: national justice systems, anti-corruption frameworks, media freedom and […]
Interview by Vassilios Nicolaos Vitsilogiannis (IG: @vassiliosvitsilogiannis) Harita Mandoles is a prominent figure in the history of Cyprus, particularly known for her resilience and activism following the 1974 Turkish invasion. During the invasion, she witnessed the tragic murder of her husband. This event marked her deeply and spurred her lifelong commitment to seeking justice […]
By Martin Banks EU member states have rubberstamped a new round of restrictive measures against four persons and two entities under the European Union’s Global Human Rights Sanctions Regime. The listed individuals and entities are responsible for serious human rights abuses worldwide, including torture and systematic and widespread sexual and gender-based violence. The EU says […]
By Martin Banks MEPs have broadly supported the re-election of Maltese MEP Roberta Metsola as president of the European Parliament. Some 562 deputies backed her and Metsola’s new term will run until 2027. She was one of two candidates and received an absolute majority of votes cast out of 699 by secret paper ballot. The […]
By Martin Banks Some MEPs are angry that the EU will be “represented” at the swearing in this week of Iran’s new president, Masoud Pezeshkia. European External Action Service political director, Enrique Mora, is due to attend the event in Tehran on Tuesday. The EEAS insists that the EU is not be represented at political […]
By Martin Banks It’s that time of year again: the quest to find the best shrimp croquettes in Belgium. This has become an annual competition for what is called the “little superstar of Belgian gastronomy.” From now until 20 August culinary establishments wishing to take part in the 5th edition of the competition to find […]
By Martin Banks Russia’s war against Ukraine and the need for continuous EU support for Ukraine has again come under the spotlight for MEPs. The topic was debated by the European Parliament. S&D leader Iratxe García reaffirmed the EU’s “full support for Ukraine, denounced Russia’s violation of international law and the UN Charter, and condemned […]
By Martin Banks With Russia’s war against Ukraine raging on, MEPs have reconfirmed their view that the EU must continue to support Kyiv “for as long as it takes until victory.” A new resolution sets out the newly-elected European Parliament’s first official position on Russia’s “war of aggression” against Ukraine. It restates the continued support […]
