USCIRF Commissioner Maureen Ferguson civil society groups are often the first to expose religious freedom violations

An analysis of the EU Transparency Register reveals that several small public affairs and law firms in Europe are actively lobbying for major oil and gas companies, contributing to pollution concerns. Despite fossil fuel clients accounting for only 1% of the industry’s revenue, many of the top spenders in influencing EU policymaking are linked to these companies. The findings, published by the Good Lobby nonprofit, highlight the extent of lobbying efforts within the fossil fuel...

SummaryUK Chancellor Rachel Reeves has dismissed key components of Donald Trump's economic policies ahead of her meeting with US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, emphasizing the UK's commitment to an open global economy. While acknowledging the need to address global trade imbalances, Reeves stressed the importance of reducing trade barriers and supporting multilateral institutions, differing from Trump's approach. She aims to negotiate a UK-US trade deal to lower tariffs on British exports, while addressing regulatory challenges...

The European Commission will investigate Universal Music Group's $775 million acquisition of Downtown Music, amid concerns that it could increase Universal's dominance in the music industry. The probe follows a referral from the Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets, with independent music representatives arguing that the deal threatens market access for independent artists and labels. Universal Music, which controls 37% of the U.S. market, expressed confidence in proceeding with the acquisition as planned, despite the...

SummaryBritain is moving towards establishing a post-Brexit youth visa scheme with the EU, amidst political sensitivities ahead of a key summit on May 19. EU officials emphasize the importance of a "youth experience scheme," allowing under-30s to live and work temporarily in each other's territories, while UK ministers aim to address domestic migration concerns prior to discussions. As negotiations progress, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is expected to agree on a communique with EU...

The UK is facing conflicting international pressures in its pursuit of economic growth, with diplomats humorously noting that Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves appear to be attempting to balance three competing interests. At the recent International Monetary Fund summit in Washington, Reeves aimed to position the UK as a champion of free trade, advocating for business relations with the EU, US, and China. This complex diplomatic balancing act underscores the challenges the UK encounters in...

This article discusses the UK defence industry and its evolving relationship with Europe, highlighting the boost in military orders due to the war in Ukraine and increased government spending. A new defence pact between the UK and the EU is anticipated to be announced on May 19, which could allow British firms access to EU procurement funds, significantly benefiting the UK’s £9.5bn defence export market. The article emphasizes the necessity of collaboration post-Brexit to enhance...