Eurotopics.net

Gang crime is escalating in Sweden, with cases of car bombs exploding or shoot-outs on the streets almost every week. Prime Minister Stefan Löfven has denied any connection between the high crime rate and immigration to the country, saying that if Swedes moved into the socially disadvantaged areas the same problems would arise. The press is highly critical of this statement.

About 28,000 protesters took to the streets on Saturday to mark the first anniversary of the yellow vest protests in France, according to the French Interior Ministry. One year ago just under 300,000 people went out to denounce high petrol prices and social inequalities. Despite dwindling interest in the movement, commentators take the opportunity to reflect on its social and political significance.

The Czech Republic and Slovakia celebrated the 30th anniversary of the Velvet Revolution which began on 17 November 1989. The celebrations also saw mass demonstrations in Prague, where 250,000 people protested against the threat to democracy which they believe the political elites pose. Europe's press takes a closer look at how the Czech Republic is faring today.

Sparked by a drastic increase in the price of petrol, the streets of Iran's cities have been rocked by protests since last week. The price hike came after the government decided to abolish the state subsidies that had kept petrol prices low. Is this the straw that will break the camel's back and put the government in real danger?

The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) has ruled that Finland violated the human rights convention by deporting an Iraqi who was shot shortly after his return to his home country in 2017. The man's family is entitled to 20,000 euros in compensation. Deportations to Iraq have now been temporarily halted. Finland's commentators are pleased with the ruling.