The 21st Century and the Shame of Persistent Institutionalisation

US President Trump's tariff threats have tested the EU's trade policy capabilities, revealing both successes, like a political agreement with Indonesia, and failures in its approach to negotiations with the US. The EU's traditional methods are ineffective against Trump's unpredictable style, reflecting a deeper struggle within its institutional structure and reliance on the automotive industry. Explain It To Me Like I'm 5: The article talks about how the EU is struggling to handle trade talks...

Germany is no longer the top destination for asylum seekers in the EU, mainly due to a sharp decline in Syrian applications following the end of Bashar al-Assad's regime, with Spain now leading in asylum claims. The EU Agency for Asylum reported a significant drop in overall claims, particularly from Syrians, prompting calls for stricter migration policies across Europe. Explain It To Me Like I'm 5: Germany is no longer the top place for people...

Ursula von der Leyen proposed a €2tn EU budget, a 64% increase, facing skepticism and pushback from member states over its feasibility and costs, with critics labeling the financial plan as "voodoo maths." Meanwhile, Poland condemned a Russian drone attack on a Polish-owned factory in Ukraine, highlighting ongoing security concerns amid the war's impact on the region. Explain It To Me Like I'm 5: Ursula von der Leyen proposed a big new budget for the...

French premier François Bayrou is attempting to secure his government's survival by negotiating with the Socialist party to pass a €44bn fiscal package for 2026 amidst a political deadlock. With no parliamentary majority, Bayrou's proposals, including a spending freeze and cutting national holidays, have faced opposition, especially from Socialists who demand a fairer burden distribution. Explain It To Me Like I'm 5: French Prime Minister François Bayrou is trying to make a deal with the...

Ursula von der Leyen's proposed €2tn budget for the EU (2028-2034) has faced significant internal dissent within the European Commission, highlighting her ultra-centralized decision-making style. Despite her concessions to address concerns, including new taxes and funding allocations, the chaotic negotiations raise fears about future discussions with EU member states, as many remain dissatisfied with the process. Explain It To Me Like I'm 5: Ursula von der Leyen's plan for a huge EU budget has caused...

Brussels plans to propose that fruit, vegetables, and milk for schools be locally sourced as part of a broader initiative to prioritize domestic production, reflecting a push to bolster the EU's industries. This proposal, which aligns with upcoming changes to agricultural funding, aims to support small producers and ensure food security while maintaining financial aid for farmers under the EU's Common Agricultural Policy. Explain It To Me Like I'm 5: Brussels wants schools to buy...