Eurotopics.net

Covid infection rates are rising again and highlighting the lack of intensive care beds and nursing staff in many European countries. Commentators are unanimous: beyond the pandemic, healthcare systems are suffering from structural problems that call for urgent measures.

One year has passed since Joe Biden won the US presidential election. His poll ratings have dropped and important reforms are failing partly due to opposition from within his own party. Taking stock of his performance so far, Europe's press is less than enthusiastic and sees the US president under increasing pressure from his predecessor Donald Trump.

As a member of the Schengen Area, Switzerland is obliged to contribute to securing the EU's external borders. In September its parliament approved annual payments of 61 million Swiss francs to Frontex. However activists are opposing the funding for the border protection agency, which has been accused of illegal pushbacks, and now hope to overturn the decision by referendum. What can this achieve?

The heads of state and government gathered at the 26th UN Climate Change Conference in Glasgow have kicked off the event with urgent appeals. The US promised to adhere to its climate targets. Germany made the case for global carbon pricing and India said it was aiming to become climate neutral by 2070. For Europe's press, it is clear that the time for statements of intent is now over.