Eurotopics.net

More than 200 teams worldwide are working on a coronavirus vaccination. An international donors' conference organised by the EU gathered 7.4 billion euros to make a vaccination, medications and test materials globally available. The US and China did not participate. There is growing concern in the media that competitive thinking could hinder research efforts.

Last weekend saw protests against the coronavirus measures in several German cities. In some places several thousand demonstrators gathered, often without respecting social distancing norms. The protesters accused the federal government of panic-mongering and restricting fundamental rights. Well-known conspiracy theorists were among the organisers. Cause for concern?

In many European countries lockdown restrictions are gradually being relaxed. Shops have reopened, children are returning to school and there are fewer restrictions on going outside. Commentators discuss the challenges of this transitional period.

On 8 May 1945 Germany surrendered to the allied troops. The Second World War and the Nazi occupation of Europe were over. Large-scale celebrations - such as the vast military parade planned in Moscow - have been called off due to coronavirus this year. But commentators' reflections about the anniversary are not being overshadowed by the pandemic.