All Europe
First LookVaccine makers pledge more than 1 billion doses to less wealthy nationsCompanies promised to deliver more than 1.3 billion doses of COVID-19 vaccines, at cost, to low- and middle-income countries this year.
First LookArchitects gather to solve: How can a divided world dwell in peace?The 17th International Architecture Exhibition, Venice Biennale, opens this weekend. Exhibits will look at the role of designed spaces in climate change, political polarization, increasing inequalities, and population displacement.
Why is Denmark trying to send Syrians back to their war-torn country?Denmark’s asylum policies prioritize return over integration. But that can be life-threatening when the country one must return to is Syria.
‘No longer just the white man.’ Can French literature make room for new voices?French publishers are starting to open up to a greater diversity of new voices, including second-generation French writers.
First LookCafes, croissants, Mona Lisa: France is feeling more like itselfThe French government slowly began lifting lockdown restrictions Wednesday, allowing patrons to enjoy cafes, restaurants, and museums. “[T]here’s no reason why we can’t continue moving forward,” said President Emmanuel Macron.
First LookWhy Spain is suddenly dealing with an African migrant surgeIn just two days, 8,000 migrants, including an estimated 2,000 minors, have crossed the border into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta in Northern Africa. That’s nearly four times the number that made the same trip last year. Why now, and what are the implications?
FocusEqual pay for equal work in Europe? The key may be transparency.Equal pay for equal work may become a reality in Europe, as the European Union’s new leader advocates wage transparency to bolster gender equality.
First LookDutch exhibit grapples with nation's historical links to slaveryA new exhibit titled “Slavery” at a museum in Amsterdam takes an unflinching look at Dutch involvement in the international slave trade. Many European countries are owning up to the brutality of their colonial past in light of the Black Lives Matter movement.
Women’s pro soccer goes big-time in England. Why now?With world-class talent and a national broadcasting deal, women’s professional soccer seems set to be widely embraced by English society.
First LookMediterranean beaches are calling, but whither the tourists?Even though Croatia, Cyprus, and Greece are reopening, workers in the tourism industry are bracing for another tough year. Malta is offering vouchers, Turkey is welcoming visitors without COVID testing, Portugal isn't requiring quarantines – but bookings remain low.
At odds with West, Kremlin lashes out at indie media in RussiaRussia may not be at war with the West, but the Kremlin is increasingly using a warlike sensibility in its domestic rhetoric and policy.
First LookPutin orders review of gun laws after deadly Kazan school attackA lone teenage gunman opened fire at a school in Kazan, Russia, killing nine people, including seven children, and injuring nearly 20 more. The motive of the gunman, a former student at the school, remains unclear.
US debates child credit payments. Germany loves them.In Germany, long-standing Kindergeld payments to support child welfare illuminate the values of the country’s social democratic fabric.
First LookScottish nationalists vow independence vote after election winPro-independence parties won a majority in Scotland’s parliament, with First Minister Nicola Sturgeon pledging a new independence referendum.
The French military is becoming more diverse. It’s also leaning further right.Far-right sentiment has crept into the French military. But it has provided a moment of reflection for how the army addresses diversity.
First LookWhy an Italian TV show with majority Black cast is making wavesIn a first for Italian TV, a predominantly Black cast stars in the new Netflix series “Zero.” Supporters hope the show will help Italians recognize that their country is becoming increasingly multicultural while also providing role models for young, Black Italians.
Moscow cyclists are getting new bike paths. Do Muscovites get a say?Efforts to fix Moscow’s traffic highlight the green priorities of a new generation of bureaucrats – and the lack of input from any other Muscovites.
First LookSpain's immigrant politician highlights racial imbalancesSerigne Mbaye has gone from being an undocumented Senegalese migrant to a Spanish citizen running for public office, hoping to bring debates about race – often brushed aside or seen as irrelevant – to the forefront of Spanish society.
First LookYoung generations can't face climate burden alone, Germany rulesShould future generations have to give up more than current generations to combat climate change? Germany’s top court ruled that the country must set clearer emissions targets for the future – a decision that activists say delivers generational justice.
Southern Europe’s brain drain reversed in pandemic. Will it last?Countries like Italy and Romania are trying to make permanent the pandemic-driven return of their best and brightest from abroad.
