Germany's final National Energy and Climate Plan (NECP) shows clear deficits, write the experts at Germanwatch. The German government needs to do more, particularly in the transport and building sectors as well as in natural sinks.
By Lukas Knigge
Travel costs of up to €18,000 per person were incurred when the Italian coastguard brought the first 16 asylum seekers to Albania. Their asylum application is to be decided there in a fast-track procedure. The opposition speaks of an "ugly, cynical and expensive operation".
By Almut Siefert
The Federal Ministry of Finance argues that the excessive expenditure could require an extension of the consolidation period in accordance with EU rules. The background to this is the ongoing budget dispute.
By Till Hoppe
EU Commission Vice-President Šefčovič pleaded with EU ministers to conclude negotiations with Switzerland on a new basis for the bilateral relationship by the end of 2024. The member states showed no understanding for the demand for a unilateral safeguard clause on immigration.
By Stephan Israel
Cyprus has nominated the independent Professor Costas Kadis for the new Commission. Von der Leyen wants to entrust him with the Fisheries and Oceans portfolio.
By Redaktion Table
Several member states suspect that biodiesel exports to the EU are sometimes falsely declared as "advanced". However, the EU Commission sees its scope for reaction as limited.
By Julia Dahm
The EU Commission is proposing an accelerated implementation of the migration pact. In a letter to the heads of state and government, von der Leyen writes that she wants to examine agreements with non-EU countries on readmission centers.
By Redaktion Table
Disputes over nuclear energy and Russian gas dominate the first regular meeting of energy ministers under the Hungarian Presidency. The outgoing Energy Commissioner makes an emotional appeal to the member states.
By Manuel Berkel
The EU Commission President wants to ensure diversity in her Commission. New Commissioners may therefore no longer fill their cabinets predominantly with nationals. At least 50 percent must be women.
By Till Hoppe
French Prime Minister Michel Barnier is breaking with Macron's supply-side policy. He is relying on tax increases to reduce the high deficit. Companies and the wealthy should pay higher taxes.
By Claire Stam
