Eurotopics.net

The Hague has banned traditional New Year's Eve bonfires on the beach after a disaster was only narrowly avoided last year. The combination of a pile of pallets that was too high, strong westerly winds and a rain of sparks set cars and even houses on fire. Residents in the affected neighbourhoods of Duindorp and Schevenigen have reacted to the ban with anger and sporadic rioting. Why?

Brexit is a certainty - that much is clear after the Tories' victory in the British general election. Now new issues are taking central stage - in Britain and in Europe. For example how the EU should deal with populist campaigns or the independence movements in individual countries and regions.

The Romanian Revolution, which culminated in the overthrow and execution of dictator Nicolae Ceauşescu, began in the city of Timișoara shortly before Christmas 1989. More than 1,000 people died in the uprising against the state. The Romanian press examines whether the people of Romania have truly put the dictatorship behind them thirty years on.

An armed international conflict is brewing in Libya after General Haftar, who controls the east of the country, announced the launch of a final assault on Tripoli. Prime Minister Fayez al-Sarraj, who is recognised by the UN as the country's leader, is based there. Turkish President Erdoğan has pledged to send ground troops to support the prime minister if necessary.

An armed international conflict is brewing in Libya. General Haftar, who controls the east of the country with his militias, has announced the launch of a final assault on Tripoli. Prime Minister al-Sarraj, who is recognised by the UN and to whom Erdoğan has now pledged military support, rules there. Europe's press is concerned by the passiveness of the EU in this conflict.

Pope Francis has abolished the "pontifical secret" rule in cases of sexual abuse in the Catholic Church. The rule of secrecy applied equally to perpetrators and victims. Statements given in church trials can now be passed on to civil authorities. Europe's press praises the measure as an important step and discusses the far-reaching consequences.