Eurotopics.net

After examinations were cancelled because of the coronamvirus pandemic, the results of this year's A-levels, the UK's university entrance qualification exams, were calculated using an algorithm. This process has resulted in grades that in many cases are significantly lower than those predicted by teachers. Students from disadvantaged families are reportedly worst affected, while students from private schools are said to have benefited.

Donald Trump's rival Joe Biden presented his candidate for vice-president at a high school in his hometown of Wilmington on Wednesday: Senator Kamala Harris. Both blamed Donald Trump for the crises in the country and especially for the many coronavirus deaths. Harris's nomination has stoked high hopes in Europe's commentary columns, but not all journalists share these expectations.

The European Union is considering sanctions against Belarus over allegations of manipulation in the country's presidential election. EU Foreign Affairs Representative Josep Borrell has said the election was neither free nor fair. He also criticised brutality on the part of law enforcement authorities and the mass imprisonment of demonstrators and journalists. What steps should Brussels take?

Italy is changing its rules on drug-induced abortion. Health Minister Speranza announced on Saturday that from now on the administration of the abortion pill RU486 will be allowed up to the ninth week of pregnancy and without mandatory hospitalisation. The decision marks "an important step forward" while respecting the current legal situation, Speranza said. Representatives of Catholic associations have sharply criticised the move.