Briefed - Your Daily European Podcast

Reports against reports: the battle to regulate toxic TFAs

You’ve heard of PFAS, these forever chemicals found on your non-stick pan, in your dishwasher detergent, in your jacket and generally everywhere in your everyday lives. Now meet the trifluoroacetic acid or TFA, probably very dangerous to the public health but not regulated or measured in the EU. 

Now, you might wonder, if our food supplies are contaminated why isn’t the EU taking action to stop it? Well the EU can’t stop it because it didn’t monitor it.

Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.

Why wildfires aren’t just an emergency, but our reality

Wildfires have once again swept across the Mediterranean this summer, Catalonia saw entire towns forced into lockdown, fires crept dangerously close to Marseille, and evacuations have been underway in Greece. It’s becoming an all-too-familiar summer routine. But as the flames grow stronger and more frequent,  are we doing enough to stop Europe from burning every summer?

Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.

The Right Kind of Family : Destroying gender 4/6

In episode 4 of The Right Kind of Family, our reporters travel back to Spain, a country which has become a model in the development of progressive transgender rights at the national and regional level. In 2023, the Spanish Congress passed the so-called Trans Law, which focuses primarily on allowing individuals to change their name and gender on ID cards without requiring medical reports. 

However, Spain is also a country which saw the birth of the VOX, a party whose political platform hinges about the concept of "gender idoleology". Crucially, VOX is also one of the initiators of the Political Network for Values. Understanding the rise of the Political Network for Values implies understanding how gender politics has shaped Spain and Europe over the past two decades. 

The English version is written and narrated by Lili Rutai

Research and fieldwork: Francesca Berardi, Claudia Torrisi, Lili Rutai, Elsa Cabria and Manuel Tomillo

Script in original language: Francesca Berardi, Claudia Torrisi, Lili Rutai, Elsa Cabria.

Editing of scripts: Alexander Damiano Ricci, Ana Ribera and Sabrina Tinelli

Original sound identity: Daniel Gutierrez Ortega and Mattia Liciotti, based on ‘The Devil You Know’ soundtrack, licensed by Machiavelli Music.

Additional musical curation, editing and sound design: Jeremy Bocquet.

Original graphic design: Ruth Benito and Rebecca Grassi

Graphic design adaptation for the English version: Watermelon collective

Executive production: Ana Ribera

Editorial coordination and production: Alexander Damiano Ricci

Co-funded by the European Union. However, the views and opinions expressed are solely those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

Slovenia imposes arms embargo on Israel, Portugal signals recognition of Palestine

Today’s episode is brought to you in partnership with The Observer and Tortoise, who just released a brand new investigative podcast series, called “The Lab Detective”. 

“The Lab Detective" deals with the story of Kathleen Folbigg, who experienced unimaginable loss. All four of her infant children died suddenly, over a 10-year period. Their deaths were unexplained. Until a police detective turned up at her door, and arrested Kathleen on suspicion of murder.

Kathleen was labelled ‘Australia's worst female serial killer’, convicted, and was destined to spend most of the rest of her life in jail.

Until a different type of detective entered her life. A scientist working in a lab who uncovered the truth behind the deaths.

This is the story of a shocking miscarriage of justice, but as journalist Rachel Sylvester starts to investigate how this happened, she learns that Kathleen is not alone – other mothers have endured the same fate, and may also be in prison.

The Lab Detective is a story about the power of science, and the determination of those searching for the truth.

Ukraine backtracks on anti-corruption bill after public outcry

Today’s episode is brought to you in partnership with The Observer and Tortoise, who just released a brand new investigative podcast series, called “The Lab Detective”. 

“The Lab Detective" deals with the story of Kathleen Folbigg, who experienced unimaginable loss. All four of her infant children died suddenly, over a 10-year period. Their deaths were unexplained. Until a police detective turned up at her door, and arrested Kathleen on suspicion of murder.

Kathleen was labelled ‘Australia's worst female serial killer’, convicted, and was destined to spend most of the rest of her life in jail.

Until a different type of detective entered her life. A scientist working in a lab who uncovered the truth behind the deaths.

This is the story of a shocking miscarriage of justice, but as journalist Rachel Sylvester starts to investigate how this happened, she learns that Kathleen is not alone – other mothers have endured the same fate, and may also be in prison.

The Lab Detective is a story about the power of science, and the determination of those searching for the truth.

Google to sign EU’s AI code of practice. What are the concerns?

Today’s episode is brought to you in partnership with The Observer and Tortoise, who just released a brand new investigative podcast series, called “The Lab Detective”. 

“The Lab Detective" deals with the story of Kathleen Folbigg, who experienced unimaginable loss. All four of her infant children died suddenly, over a 10-year period. Their deaths were unexplained. Until a police detective turned up at her door, and arrested Kathleen on suspicion of murder.

Kathleen was labelled ‘Australia's worst female serial killer’, convicted, and was destined to spend most of the rest of her life in jail.

Until a different type of detective entered her life. A scientist working in a lab who uncovered the truth behind the deaths.

This is the story of a shocking miscarriage of justice, but as journalist Rachel Sylvester starts to investigate how this happened, she learns that Kathleen is not alone – other mothers have endured the same fate, and may also be in prison.

The Lab Detective is a story about the power of science, and the determination of those searching for the truth.

The ‘always on’ culture and the battle for the right to disconnect

Work emails at night. Messages from your boss after dinner. The pressure to be “always on” has become the norm, blurring the line between work and life, and pushing more people toward burnout. In this episode of Europe Talks Back, we look at how digital tools, remote work, and workplace expectations are wearing us down and whether the growing push for a legal right to disconnect can turn things around.

We spoke to Professor Claudia Pagliari, expert in digital health and tech ethics at the University of Edinburgh, to understand how constant connectivity affects our minds, our health, and our relationships and what really needs to change: the law, the culture, or both.

Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.

Israel denies starvation in Gaza as the EU proposes symbolic sanctions

Today’s episode is brought to you in partnership with The Observer and Tortoise, who just released a brand new investigative podcast series, called “The Lab Detective”. 

“The Lab Detective" deals with the story of Kathleen Folbigg, who experienced unimaginable loss. All four of her infant children died suddenly, over a 10-year period. Their deaths were unexplained. Until a police detective turned up at her door, and arrested Kathleen on suspicion of murder.

Kathleen was labelled ‘Australia's worst female serial killer’, convicted, and was destined to spend most of the rest of her life in jail.

Until a different type of detective entered her life. A scientist working in a lab who uncovered the truth behind the deaths.

This is the story of a shocking miscarriage of justice, but as journalist Rachel Sylvester starts to investigate how this happened, she learns that Kathleen is not alone – other mothers have endured the same fate, and may also be in prison.

The Lab Detective is a story about the power of science, and the determination of those searching for the truth.

The EU-US tariff deal: A costly compromise or strategic win?

Today’s episode is brought to you in partnership with The Observer and Tortoise, who just released a brand new investigative podcast series, called “The Lab Detective”. 

“The Lab Detective" deals with the story of Kathleen Folbigg, who experienced unimaginable loss. All four of her infant children died suddenly, over a 10-year period. Their deaths were unexplained. Until a police detective turned up at her door, and arrested Kathleen on suspicion of murder.

Kathleen was labelled ‘Australia's worst female serial killer’, convicted, and was destined to spend most of the rest of her life in jail.

Until a different type of detective entered her life. A scientist working in a lab who uncovered the truth behind the deaths.

This is the story of a shocking miscarriage of justice, but as journalist Rachel Sylvester starts to investigate how this happened, she learns that Kathleen is not alone – other mothers have endured the same fate, and may also be in prison.

The Lab Detective is a story about the power of science, and the determination of those searching for the truth.

The Right Kind of Family : The abortion playbook 3/6

In episode 3 of The Right Kind of Family, we travel to Italy, a country which has become a model for how it has been limiting access to abortion for women in subtle ways. 

In fact, the country ruled by Giorgia Meloni's Brother of Italy, represents a playbook for how it is possible to curtail abortions in a context where the Law formally provides free access to it. Starting from Naples, through Rome and reaching the north-western city of Turin, the reporters uncover how the anti-abortion playbook unfolds and impacts women's lives.  

The English version is written and narrated by Lili Rutai

Research and fieldwork: Francesca Berardi, Claudia Torrisi, Lili Rutai, Elsa Cabria and Manuel Tomillo

Script in original language: Francesca Berardi, Claudia Torrisi, Lili Rutai, Elsa Cabria.

Editing of scripts: Alexander Damiano Ricci, Ana Ribera and Sabrina Tinelli

Original sound identity: Daniel Gutierrez Ortega and Mattia Liciotti, based on ‘The Devil You Know’ soundtrack, licensed by Machiavelli Music.

Additional musical curation, editing and sound design: Jeremy Bocquet.

Original graphic design: Ruth Benito and Rebecca Grassi

Graphic design adaptation for the English version: Watermelon collective

Executive production: Ana Ribera

Editorial coordination and production: Alexander Damiano Ricci

Co-funded by the European Union. However, the views and opinions expressed are solely those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

France’s recognition of Palestine and Europe’s tough talk come a little too late

Today’s episode is brought to you in partnership with The Observer and Tortoise, who just released a brand new investigative podcast series, called “The Lab Detective”. 

“The Lab Detective" deals with the story of Kathleen Folbigg, who experienced unimaginable loss. All four of her infant children died suddenly, over a 10-year period. Their deaths were unexplained. Until a police detective turned up at her door, and arrested Kathleen on suspicion of murder.

Kathleen was labelled ‘Australia's worst female serial killer’, convicted, and was destined to spend most of the rest of her life in jail.

Until a different type of detective entered her life. A scientist working in a lab who uncovered the truth behind the deaths.

This is the story of a shocking miscarriage of justice, but as journalist Rachel Sylvester starts to investigate how this happened, she learns that Kathleen is not alone – other mothers have endured the same fate, and may also be in prison.

The Lab Detective is a story about the power of science, and the determination of those searching for the truth.

UN court says climate inaction could violate international law

Today’s episode is brought to you in partnership with The Observer and Tortoise, who just released a brand new investigative podcast series, called “The Lab Detective”. 

“The Lab Detective" deals with the story of Kathleen Folbigg, who experienced unimaginable loss. All four of her infant children died suddenly, over a 10-year period. Their deaths were unexplained. Until a police detective turned up at her door, and arrested Kathleen on suspicion of murder.

Kathleen was labelled ‘Australia's worst female serial killer’, convicted, and was destined to spend most of the rest of her life in jail.

Until a different type of detective entered her life. A scientist working in a lab who uncovered the truth behind the deaths.

This is the story of a shocking miscarriage of justice, but as journalist Rachel Sylvester starts to investigate how this happened, she learns that Kathleen is not alone – other mothers have endured the same fate, and may also be in prison.

The Lab Detective is a story about the power of science, and the determination of those searching for the truth.

Protests and EU concern over Zelenskyy’s anti-corruption crackdown

Today’s episode is brought to you in partnership with The Observer and Tortoise, who just released a brand new investigative podcast series, called “The Lab Detective”. 

“The Lab Detective" deals with the story of Kathleen Folbigg, who experienced unimaginable loss. All four of her infant children died suddenly, over a 10-year period. Their deaths were unexplained. Until a police detective turned up at her door, and arrested Kathleen on suspicion of murder.

Kathleen was labelled ‘Australia's worst female serial killer’, convicted, and was destined to spend most of the rest of her life in jail.

Until a different type of detective entered her life. A scientist working in a lab who uncovered the truth behind the deaths.

This is the story of a shocking miscarriage of justice, but as journalist Rachel Sylvester starts to investigate how this happened, she learns that Kathleen is not alone – other mothers have endured the same fate, and may also be in prison.

The Lab Detective is a story about the power of science, and the determination of those searching for the truth.

Azerbaijan and Russia are on a collision course, but why now?

Today’s episode is brought to you in partnership with The Observer and Tortoise, who just released a brand new investigative podcast series, called “The Lab Detective”. 

“The Lab Detective" deals with the story of Kathleen Folbigg, who experienced unimaginable loss. All four of her infant children died suddenly, over a 10-year period. Their deaths were unexplained. Until a police detective turned up at her door, and arrested Kathleen on suspicion of murder.

Kathleen was labelled ‘Australia's worst female serial killer’, convicted, and was destined to spend most of the rest of her life in jail.

Until a different type of detective entered her life. A scientist working in a lab who uncovered the truth behind the deaths.

This is the story of a shocking miscarriage of justice, but as journalist Rachel Sylvester starts to investigate how this happened, she learns that Kathleen is not alone – other mothers have endured the same fate, and may also be in prison.

The Lab Detective is a story about the power of science, and the determination of those searching for the truth.

Anti-immigration protests in Poland and (a theory of) why this is happening

Today’s episode is brought to you in partnership with The Observer and Tortoise, who just released a brand new investigative podcast series, called “The Lab Detective”. 

“The Lab Detective" deals with the story of Kathleen Folbigg, who experienced unimaginable loss. All four of her infant children died suddenly, over a 10-year period. Their deaths were unexplained. Until a police detective turned up at her door, and arrested Kathleen on suspicion of murder.

Kathleen was labelled ‘Australia's worst female serial killer’, convicted, and was destined to spend most of the rest of her life in jail.

Until a different type of detective entered her life. A scientist working in a lab who uncovered the truth behind the deaths.

This is the story of a shocking miscarriage of justice, but as journalist Rachel Sylvester starts to investigate how this happened, she learns that Kathleen is not alone – other mothers have endured the same fate, and may also be in prison.

The Lab Detective is a story about the power of science, and the determination of those searching for the truth.

The Right Kind of Family : A family-friendly country 2/6

In episode 2 of The Right Kind of Family, our reporters travel to Hungary, a country ruled by Viktor Orban's Fidezs party since 2010. This relatively small central European country has surged to the role of ideological cornerstone for the Political Network for Values and its members. 

In particular, our reporters focus on one specific dimension of the policies enacted by the Orban over the past decade: family policies as a tool to stop population decline.

The Hungarian government proudly defines its country as a family-friendly land. But what exactly are the famed policies of the Hungarian government, and how do they affect Hungarian households and women? What do Hungarians think about them, and ultimately, are they effective in halting population decline? 

The Right Kind of Family is a podcast co-produced by El País Audio, Chora Media, Europod, and 444.It was created within the framework of the WePod project, co-funded by the Creative Europe programme of the European Commission.

The English version is written and narrated by Lili Rutai

Research and fieldwork: Francesca Berardi, Claudia Torrisi, Lili Rutai, Elsa Cabria and Manuel Tomillo

Script in original language: Francesca Berardi, Claudia Torrisi, Lili Rutai, Elsa Cabria.

Editing of scripts: Alexander Damiano Ricci, Ana Ribera and Sabrina Tinelli

Original sound identity: Daniel Gutierrez Ortega and Mattia Liciotti, based on ‘The Devil You Know’ soundtrack, licensed by Machiavelli Music.

Additional musical curation, editing and sound design: Jeremy Bocquet.

Original graphic design: Ruth Benito and Rebecca Grassi

Graphic design adaptation for the English version: Watermelon collective

Executive production: Ana Ribera

Editorial coordination and production: Alexander Damiano Ricci

Co-funded by the European Union. However, the views and opinions expressed are solely those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

Why should Georgia's crackdown on democracy worry Europe?

Eight months after Georgia’s disputed parliamentary elections, the country has taken a dramatic turn towards authoritarianism. The ruling Georgian Dream party has passed law after law to silence independent media, criminalise protests, and punish dissent.

But how did a country once hailed as a frontrunner for EU accession end up targeting its own political opposition and journalists and what does this mean for the rest of Europe?

Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.

The MFF wars have begun: Who gains, who loses?

The European Commission has officially proposed in a very confusing manner an almost €2 trillion budget for the 2028–2034 period. The biggest budget, in Ursula von der Leyen’s words, to be spent “for a new era.” 

Von der Leyen says this budget will make the EU’s cash pot “larger, smarter and sharper.” But critics warn it may just end up being leaner, meaner, and far more politically painful than she anticipates. So, what are the first reactions, and who wins and loses with the new MFF?

Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.

Can the EU afford its €1.7 trillion future? Unpacking the MFF

This afternoon, Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is expected to present a draft proposal for the European Union’s next seven-year budget, officially called the Multiannual Financial Framework, or MFF. 

The current MFF, running from 2021 to 2027, stands at just over €1.2 trillion. But according to a leaked draft, the next proposal, covering 2028 to 2034, could reach €1.717 trillion, or 1.23% of the EU’s gross national income. That’s up from about 1.1% now. With political divides deepening and resources stretched thin, can this budget still deliver on Europe’s promises?

Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.

Foreign ministers weigh Israel sanctions as legal case targets EU inaction on Gaza

Today, EU foreign ministers are gathering in Brussels for their final meeting before the summer recess. The main item on the agenda is of course the EU’s association agreement with Israel, and whether Israel is living up to its human rights obligations under that deal. 

Following weeks of mounting pressure over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas has presented a list of options that range from suspending trade with Israel to halting student exchanges. All because an EU review found Israel falling short of the human rights standards required by the agreement, while the latest reports are showing attacks on civilians at aid distribution centres. So, will the EU take concrete action under Article 2 of the agreement, or settle for monitoring Israel’s promises on humanitarian aid?

Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.

Tariff wars: How the EU plans to respond to Trump’s 30% trade blow

Before the weekend Donald Trump sent a letter to the European Commission announcing his plans to slap a 30% tariff on nearly all EU imports, starting August 1st.

This caught Brussels off guard. An agreement was already on the table,  one that included a painful, but tolerable, 10% base tariff. Most EU member states were willing to swallow that to avoid worse. But the 30% tariff had the European Commission rushing for a response. So, what’s von der Leyen’s plan?

Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.

The Right Kind of Family : A very bright future 1/6

In episode 1 of The Right Kind of Family, reporters Claudia Torrisi, Elsa Cabria, Francesca Berardi and Lili Rutai are in Madrid, in the Spanish Senate. They follow the works of the "VI Transatlantic Summit for Freedom and the Culture of Life", a closed session “in defence of life and the natural family.” The meeting serves also as the sixth international gathering of the Political Network for Values, a network established in 2014 in a room at the UN headquarters, in New York. 

The reporters follow the debates and key note speeches of the participants, uncovering the international reach of this network as well as its rhetoric and political ambitions. 

Far from being a EU-focused network, the Political Network for Values has strong US- and Latin Amrican-connections. However, one specific European country appears to play a leading role. 

The Right Kind of Family is a podcast co-produced by El País Audio, Chora Media, Europod, and 444.It was created within the framework of the WePod project, co-funded by the Creative Europe programme of the European Commission.

The English version is written and narrated by Lili Rutai

Research and fieldwork: Francesca Berardi, Claudia Torrisi, Lili Rutai, Elsa Cabria and Manuel Tomillo

Script in original language: Francesca Berardi, Claudia Torrisi, Lili Rutai, Elsa Cabria.

Editing of scripts: Alexander Damiano Ricci, Ana Ribera and Sabrina Tinelli

Original sound identity: Daniel Gutierrez Ortega and Mattia Liciotti, based on ‘The Devil You Know’ soundtrack, licensed by Machiavelli Music.

Additional musical curation, editing and sound design: Jeremy Bocquet.

Original graphic design: Ruth Benito and Rebecca Grassi

Graphic design adaptation for the English version: Watermelon collective

Executive production: Ana Ribera

Editorial coordination and production: Alexander Damiano Ricci

Co-funded by the European Union. However, the views and opinions expressed are solely those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

The Right Kind of Family : [Trailer]

"The Right Kind of Family" is a podcast co-produced by El País Audio, Chora Media, Europod, and 444.It was created within the framework of the WePod project, co-funded by the Creative Europe programme of the European Commission.

The English version is written and narrated by Lili Rutai

Research and fieldwork: Francesca Berardi, Claudia Torrisi, Lili Rutai, Elsa Cabria and Manuel Tomillo

Script in original language: Francesca Berardi, Claudia Torrisi, Lili Rutai, Elsa Cabria.

Editing of scripts: Alexander Damiano Ricci, Ana Ribera and Sabrina Tinelli

Original sound identity: Daniel Gutierrez Ortega and Mattia Liciotti, based on ‘The Devil You Know’ soundtrack, licensed by Machiavelli Music.

Additional musical curation, editing and sound design: Jeremy Bocquet.

Original graphic design: Ruth Benito and Rebecca Grassi

Graphic design adaptation for the English version: Watermelon collective

Executive production: Ana Ribera

Editorial coordination and production: Alexander Damiano Ricci

Co-funded by the European Union. However, the views and opinions expressed are solely those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

How Greece’s new asylum ban violates international law

Greece introduced today, July 11th, a controversial emergency law, suspending the registration of asylum applications for three months for people arriving by sea from North Africa. 

The Greek government defends the new law as a matter of national urgency. Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis cited a 350% increase in arrivals, claiming that two-thirds of those entering the country do not qualify for humanitarian protection. The newly appointed Migration Minister, Thanos Plevris, who assumed office following the OPEKEPE corruption scandal and is known for his far-right stance within the New Democracy party, took an even harder line, describing the situation as a "mass invasion" and declaring: "You are not welcome. Either you leave or you will be imprisoned."

Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.

EU antisemitism chief lobbied against Israel sanctions

A senior EU official has been lobbying against sanctions on Israel, using claims of antisemitism and arguments that critics say cross the line from political advocacy into disinformation. 

According to a document brought to light by the EUobserver Katharina von Schnurbein, the European Commission's Coordinator on Combating Antisemitism, made controversial remarks during a meeting with EU ambassadors in Tel Aviv on May 29. 

Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.

Trump slams Putin’s bullsh*t and promises Patriot missiles to Ukraine

Donald Trump’s patience with Putin is starting to wear thin. Five months ago, the US president insisted he trusted Vladimir Putin, who’s been leading the brutal invasion of Ukraine. 

He told reporters back then that Putin “wants peace” And that he trusted him on that. Today it seems that things have changed, but what has led to this shift?

Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.

EU races to finalize trade deal as US proposes 10% tariff with strings attached

So, time is ticking but there is still no trade agreement between the European Union and the Trump administration. 

Negotiations have intensified in recent days, but European Commission officials informed EU ambassadors yesterday that there’s no deal in place, not even an agreement in principle. What are the most plausible scenarios following these negotiations?

Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.

Can Spain’s Sánchez survive the corruption scandal web?

It’s been a turbulent few weeks in Spanish politics, with corruption scandals surfacing one after another. This past weekend was meant to be a reset for Sánchez’s Socialist party, the PSOE, a chance to move past the controversies. Instead, they found themselves facing yet another crisis. 

But, can Pedro Sánchez survive the growing web of corruption scandals engulfing his government, or is Spain’s last centre-left administration running out of political oxygen?

Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.

Trump-Putin call and US military aid pause leave Ukraine in strategic limbo

The United States has paused the delivery of key military systems to Ukraine, including Patriot air defense missiles, Stinger systems, and precision-guided munitions. 

This decision comes at a time when Russia is intensifying its military offensive along the 1,000-kilometer front line and increasing missile and drone strikes on Ukrainian cities. But what happens now and what can Zelenskyy expect from Europe?

Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.

No-confidence vote against von der Leyen: High drama, low stakes?

Next week, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will stand before the European Parliament in Strasbourg to face a no-confidence vote. This is the first time in over a decade that a Commission president has been dragged into such a debate. 

And although the outcome is all but certain, the motion is very unlikely to pass,  it’s more symbolic of the mounting pressure von der Leyen is under. But what triggered this?

Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.