All Europe
- Once sidelined, Norway’s migrant minorities earn a voice in parliament
September elections in Norway were a subtle but important victory for multiculturalism, giving the Nordic nation its most diverse parliament ever.
- First LookSix Balkan states make slow, sure progress toward EU membership
European Union leaders met in Slovenia on Wednesday to reaffirm the prospect of the EU expanding to include six Balkan countries. While the idea has met some resistance, it has also fueled political and economic reform in the region and kept tensions in check.
- The ExplainerGerman coalition talks: What do they reveal about Germany’s future?
Germany’s first post-Merkel election promises to reshape the country’s governing priorities around a new, likely three-party coalition.
- With Merkel leaving, is Macron the new leader of Europe?
For more than a decade, Europeans have looked to Germany’s Angela Merkel to lead. Can France’s Emmanuel Macron now take up her mantle?
- First LookBritish government may enlist army to resolve gas shortage
Fuel pumps in the U.K. are running dry, largely because of a shortage of truck drivers but due to panic-buying. Now, the British army is on standby in case their services are needed to close the delivery gap and keep essential services running.
- Russian Arctic is losing people. Will free land bring them back?
The European portion of the Russian Arctic is searching for economic purpose. Could giving land away stabilize its population and industry?
- First LookMerkel's party stumbles, leaves German parties haggling to rule
A near-tie between two parities in Sunday's German election leaves Europe's biggest economy negotiating over forming a multi-party government, while Angela Merkel stays on in a caretaker.
- In Germany’s elections, candidates vie to be more Merkel
All the major contenders in the German elections are trying to present themselves in the same style and stability of Angela Merkel – the men included.
- ‘Mudlarks’ dig up London’s past on the banks of the River Thames
For “mudlarks,” poking around the shores of the River Thames for lost treasures isn’t just a pastime. It’s a way to escape urban life.
- Behind extension of paternity leave in Europe, a generational change
France and Spain have expanded paternity leave, joining a growing number of rich countries in promoting gender equality in raising young children.
- First LookLava continues to spew from Canary Island volcano. What now?
On Sunday, a volcano erupted on the Canary Island of La Palma, forcing 6,000 residents to evacuate. Experts predict that lava could continue to flow for weeks. Here’s a look at the causes, the damage, and the ongoing concerns.
- Cover StoryThe crisis chancellor: How Merkel changed Germany – and the world
As Angela Merkel steps down after 16 years leading Europe’s largest economy, she leaves Germany, Europe, and the world shaped by her decisions.
- First LookPro-Kremlin party leads State Duma election, in early results
With about 30% of the vote counted Sunday, the pro-Kremlin United Russia party had 45% of the vote for the 225 parliamentary deputies selected by party, and 80% of the lawmakers chosen by individual races.
- Russians vote Sunday. Why don’t dirty tricks dissuade the opposition?
Why do opposition-minded Russians vote in elections? Because despite tight controls of the ruling United Russia party, voting can make a difference.
- Journalist's slaying: Have Dutch values fostered a crime problem?
The Dutch values of toleration toward minor offenses may also inadvertently be feeding the criminal element that killed journalist Peter de Vries.
- Amid permafrost and tundra, Russians forge their own environmentalism
Promoting ecological practices is not easy in the Russian Arctic. But locals are finding ways to change how the public interacts with the environment.
- First LookOpposition leaders defy risks ahead of Russian elections
As Russia prepares for parliamentary elections on Sunday, many top opposition candidates have been barred from public office or jailed, including allies of Alexei Navalny. Despite risks, opposition leaders are determined to prevent complete Kremlin control.
- A new way to foster religious tolerance? Put everyone under one roof.
The House of One in Berlin is being built to combat religious divides by placing a church, mosque, and synagogue under one roof.
- First LookNorway is wealthy because of oil. Can it give up fossil fuels?
Norway, a country known for its environmentalism, owes much of its wealth to vast oil wells. On Monday, voters who are increasingly concerned about the climate crisis take to the polls in an election that could shape the future of the country’s energy supply.
- Poland’s diverse media is being quieted. A US-owned TV network may go next.
Poland’s government has been quieting dissenting voices in its media, with its next target a big one: an American-owned TV network.