All Europe
- Two more years of work: Why French protesters feel ignored on pensions
The French are taking to the streets to protest a planned increase in retirement age. While all agree reform is needed, many French are asking: Are we getting what we were promised?
- Turkey quake: How children experience – and recover from – disaster
Trauma affects children differently than adults. But as Turkey and Syria attempt to recover after their deadly quake, research shows that children also exhibit high degrees of resilience.
- First LookPromising to unify, ex-minister Christodoulides wins Cyprus presidency
Mr. Christodoulides, a former foreign minister, campaigned as a unifying force, eschewing ideological and party divisions. His message resonated with a wide swath of voters.
- First LookHigh-stakes pitch: Zelenskyy appeals to EU Parliament for membership
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy again implored that Ukraine would be an integral member of the European Union in an address to the European Parliament Thursday in Brussels. His rare trip outside Ukraine comes as Russia continues to escalate its attacks.
- For a moment, earthquake makes Turkey’s divisions a little smaller
The goodwill exists amid increasing accusations of government neglect in disaster preparedness and response to the quake that killed more than 11,000.
- First LookItalian designer says not enough is being done to support diversity
Stella Jean has withdrawn from Milan Fashion Week to protest the lack of funding for the “We Are Made in Italy” collective of young designers of color. Milan Fashion Week will run Feb. 21-27, 2023.
- Why is democratic India helping Russia avoid Western sanctions?
Russia’s ability to endure sanctions relies on the reluctance of countries like India to join the West’s economic embargo. The trade channels being formed could have lasting geopolitical effects.
- First LookPope, Anglican, Presbyterian leaders speak out against anti-gay laws
The three Christian leaders said gay people should be welcomed by their churches, during an unprecedented joint airborne news conference returning home from South Sudan.
- As Ukraine’s economy reels, Ukrainians find ways to soldier on
As the war with Russia grinds on, Ukraine’s economy is under pressure and dependent on foreign aid. The average Ukrainian faces an uncertain future, but is still finding ways to persevere.
- Sanctions aren't keeping name brands out of Russia. Why not?
Western sanctions aren’t keeping iPhones off Russian shelves or Hollywood films out of Moscow’s theaters. “Parallel imports” are making Russia’s economy more resilient than expected.
- How teachers in France are shifting focus to build a confident society
In France, strict classrooms are giving way to ones where feelings are discussed more openly. How might that shift change student experiences – and French society?
- First LookEurope embargoes Russian diesel to de-fuel war efforts
Europe is cutting more energy ties with Russia to stop feeding the war in Ukraine. Diesel prices have already jumped since the war started on Feb. 24, 2022, and they could rise again. Europe is looking for suppliers in the U.S., the Middle East, and Asia.
- First LookNew voice for Czech Republic? Retired general tops ex-PM for presidency.
Petr Pavel defeated populist billionaire Andrej Babis in a runoff vote for president of the Czech Republic and will succeed controversy-courting Milos Zeman in the largely ceremonial but prestigious post.
- While soldiers fight, Ukrainians face another threat: hunger
Food security has become critical to Ukraine's defense against the Russian invasion. Volunteers willing to drive and hand out much needed groceries to cities under siege are key to that effort.
- Is France finally paying respect to its aging African soldiers?
Tirailleurssénégalais – Senegalese colonial infantry – fought wars for France, but have been treated like second-class soldiers. Now, with a blockbuster film and pension reform, they may be getting their due.
- First LookGermany and NATO allies to send ‘scores of battle tanks’ to Ukraine
The German government has confirmed it will send Leopard II battle tanks to Ukraine, and NATO allies will follow. The long-awaited decision came after the United States agreed to send M1 Abrams tanks, a move that Kyviv hopes could forge a turning point.
- First LookPope Francis: Homosexuality is not a crime, calls for charity
“Being homosexual isn’t a crime,” said Pope Francis in an interview with The Associated Press. The pope called laws against the LGBTQ community “unjust,” and is the first pope to speak out against such laws.
- Ukraine war: Can NATO tanks and training turn the tide?
Ukraine sees the hope of rolling back Russia’s land grab, with help from NATO vehicles, firepower, and training. But the arrival of sought-after Western tanks remains uncertain.
- In Ukraine, Russian collaborators flee or face justice
Ukrainian authorities have made dealing with Russian collaborators a top priority when they restore their control over liberated territories.
- For Britons seeking warmth, camaraderie can be as important as heat
Energy costs are so high in the United Kingdom that many Britons are unable to heat their homes properly. So communities are setting up warm places where they can come, without judgment, to escape the cold.