Eurotopics.net

Whether it's mandatory vaccination, Covid passes or lockdowns - almost all European countries are introducing tighter measures in the fight against a new winter wave of the virus. The press examines to what extent the decision-makers still enjoy the public's trust.

The Turkish lira plunged to its lowest level ever on Tuesday. The currency has lost 40 percent of its value in 2021, and as much as three-quarters within five years. President Erdoğan is nonetheless sticking to his policy of lowering the key interest rate, citing the fact that the Koran forbids the charging of interest. He has described the crisis as part of a "war of economic independence".

The US investment fund KKR wants to take over the largest Italian telecommunications group TIM (Telecom Italia). Since the Italian state has a veto right through its "golden power" to block takeovers not deemed in the national interest, Rome would have to approve the sale first. The press debates what course the government should take.

From February 1, 2022, vaccination will be compulsory in Austria. The country currently has one of the highest Covid infection rates worldwide. Up to now vaccination has been made mandatory only for certain occupations in various EU states such as France or Greece. A number of commentators argue that Austria's lead should be followed - or at least seriously discussed - elsewhere in Europe.