Elaine Allaby is a journalist based in Rome, Italy.

Italy 'one of the worst countries in Europe' for gay and trans rights

04 Jun 2024  |  The Local Italy  |  English  |  European Politics

Italy ranks poorly in Europe for LGBTQ+ rights, according to ILGA-Europe's Rainbow Map, placing 35th out of 49 countries. The report highlights the Italian government's perpetuation of hate speech against LGBTQ+ individuals, with Prime Minister Georgia Meloni and her party members making controversial statements. Despite some progress, such as gender-neutral bathroom policies and motions against SOGI-based criminalization, setbacks in family rights overshadow these advancements. ILGA-Europe recommends introducing marriage equality and automatic co-parenting rights for same-sex couples to improve Italy's ranking.

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Georgia Meloni Federico Mollicone Ignazio La Russa

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I am a freelance journalist originally from Romania. In the past three years, I have published over 400 articles on topics, ranging from political affairs in Eastern Europe to environmental abuses in African countries. Some of the publications that I have contributed to include Al Jazeera (****), ...

Undoing a Revolution: Saied's Tunisia and the EU

01 Jan 2025  |  Green European Journal  |  Spanish  |  EU-Tunisia Relations

Tunisia, a key partner of the European Union, faces significant political and economic challenges under President Kais Saied. His populist and nationalist policies, characterized by decrees and limited advisor involvement, have led to a concentration of power and undermined democratic institutions. The EU's relationship with Tunisia is strained, focusing more on migration control than democratization. Saied's actions, including manipulating elections and suppressing dissent, have drawn criticism for threatening Tunisia's democratic achievements post-2011 revolution. Despite international disapproval, Saied maintains domestic support by framing his actions as anti-corruption and anti-foreign interference. The EU's involvement in Tunisia includes energy transition projects, but its stance on human rights issues remains tepid.

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Georgia Meloni Kais Saied Sami Ben Abderrahmane Imed Daimi Mondher Znaidi Abdellatif Al Mekki Ayachi Zammel Zouhair Maghzaoui Santiago Alba Mustapha Tlili Hatem Nafti Romdhane Ben Amor

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Frida Dahmani is a journalist based in Tunis, Tunisia.

Biologiste de formation, Frida Dahmani a effectué l’essentiel de son parcours dans les domaines de la communication et de l’édition avant d’intégrer, en 2008 le groupe Jeune Afrique en tant que correspondante du groupe à Tunis. A ce titre, ...

Why the deal between Tunisia and the EU needs to be reviewed - interview with Ghazi Ben Ahmed

25 Sept 2023  |  JeuneAfrique.com  |  French  |  Tunisia-EU Relations

The migration pact between Tunisia and the European Union, driven by Italian far-right leader Georgia Meloni and endorsed by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, has sparked controversy and criticism. The pact, which aims to serve as a model for future agreements with neighboring countries, has been accused of ignoring human rights violations and misusing EU financial aid intended for development and poverty eradication. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock and European Ombudsman Emily O’Reilly have raised concerns about the pact's ethical implications and procedural irregularities. The memorandum's survival is uncertain, with calls for a return to the existing Association Agreement framework that covers broader issues such as economic development, human rights, and legal migration.

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Georgia Meloni Ghazi Ben Ahmed Ursula von der Leyen Marine Le Pen Matteo Salvini Annalena Baerbock Emily O’Reilly Josep Borrell Kaïs Saïed Viktor Orban

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Sarah Fluck is a freelance multimedia journalist - currently based in Kampala. Mainly reporting from Uganda, DRC, South Sudan, Rwanda, Burundi and Kenya. MSc in African Politics from SOAS, London. BA in Journalism from IAM, Winterthur. Diploma in Broadcast Journalism from MAZ, Luzern.

Population Growth: Soon There Will Be 8 Billion People

10 Nov 2022  |  Neue Zürcher Zeitung  |  German  |  Generation Conflict

The article explores the impending milestone of the global population reaching 8 billion, focusing on demographic changes and the resulting generational conflicts. It highlights the challenges faced by youth in Europe, particularly in Italy, where aging populations dominate political decisions. The narrative contrasts this with the youthful demographics of Africa, exemplified by Uganda, where young people struggle for political recognition. The piece also discusses various national strategies to address demographic shifts, such as migration policies in Switzerland and natalist policies in Hungary. The article underscores the growing divide between young and old, both in terms of political influence and societal values.

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Georgia Meloni Sofia Gian Carlo Blangiardo Matteo Salvini Ester Barel Bianca Sambucco Moritz Thomas Milic Wolfgang Gründinger Reto Mitteregger Viktor Orban Artur Frank Trudi Brand Michael Früh Bagiire Sharifu

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Tim Gosling is a journalist, editor and analyst based in the Czech Republic. He covers politics, business, current affairs and football across Central & Eastern Europe. Regular bylines for Al Jazeera, Deutsche Welle, Foreign Policy, Politico, The Times. He provides political and economic analysis ...

Democracy Digest: Migration becomes major electoral issue in Poland

07 Jul 2023  |  Balkan Insight  |  English  |  EU Affairs

Migration has become a significant electoral issue in Poland, with the government withdrawing a draft law easing visa access following a controversial video by Donald Tusk. The Polish government is also planning a referendum on receiving migrants. In Hungary, a government reshuffle has led to the creation of a Ministry of EU Affairs, with Janos Boka appointed as its head. Financial challenges are prompting the Hungarian government to consider cost-cutting measures. Tensions between Roma and Ukrainian refugees in Czechia are being exacerbated by pro-Russian disinformation. The Russian Centre of Science and Culture in Prague may face sanctions for spreading propaganda. In Slovakia, National Bank Governor Peter Kažimír is on trial for corruption, while Speaker Boris Kollár faces political fallout from a past assault scandal.

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Georgia Meloni Donald Tusk Mateusz Morawiecki Judit Varga Janos Boka Viktor Orban Peter Kažimír František Imrecze Robert Fico Boris Kollár Barbora Richterová

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I am a freelance journalist based in London, specialising in foreign reportage. I have reported from Bangladesh, Northern Ireland, Morocco, Kosovo, and elsewhere. I have worked with the Financial Times, the Observer, Haaretz, the New York Times, and UNHCR, Standpoint Magazine as well as others. I ...

Parents of Indi Gregory tell how their terminally ill daughter was in 'excruciating pain' before she died

19 Nov 2023  |  www.thisismoney.co.uk  |  English  |  Legal Issues

Indi Gregory, a baby with an incurable genetic mitochondrial condition, died after being at the center of a legal battle over life support. Her parents, Dean Gregory and Claire Staniforth, fought to keep her on life support, and Italian Prime Minister Georgia Meloni granted Indi Italian citizenship in an attempt to bring her to Rome for treatment. However, UK High Court judges ruled that it was in Indi's best interests to be taken off life support. Indi passed away in a hospice in her mother's arms. Her parents expressed anger and grief, accusing the NHS and UK courts of denying Indi a chance to live. Italian politicians and Pope Francis also showed support for Indi's family, with some criticizing the UK's decision and hinting at possible diplomatic and legal repercussions.

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Georgia Meloni Indi Gregory Dean Gregory Claire Staniforth Matteo Salvini Mr Justice Peel Pope Francis Connie Yates Charlie Gard

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**Available for EU CoronaVirus coverage from home studio**

Dave Keating is an American journalist covering European politics. Having previously covered US politics in Washington, Dave specializes in drawing comparisons between the American federal system and the European Union.

Dave has ...

The European Parliament Does More than You Think

22 Mar 2024  |  ip-quarterly.com  |  English  |  EU Legislation

The European Parliament, initially considered a 'multi-lingual talking shop,' has evolved into a powerful legislative body. Despite being the least powerful of the three EU legislative institutions, it plays a crucial role in passing and amending legislation. The upcoming elections could see a significant surge in far-right MEPs, potentially making them the largest bloc and influencing the appointment of the European Commission president. This shift could lead to a more right-wing European Commission and make passing progressive legislation, particularly on climate, more challenging. The far-right's historical inability to coordinate may result in legislative gridlock rather than effective policy changes.

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Georgia Meloni David Farrell Marine Le Pen Nigel Farage Ursula von der Leyen Friedrich Merz

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Raoul Junior Lorfils is an Award winning journalist based in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. Working in the media (radio and TV) since 2011, He has devoted himself to writing in 2014 - first as a blogger and later as a news reporter with stories published on top Haitian outlets like Le Nouvelliste, ...

Russia: Putin denounces 'treason' by Wagner group

24 Jun 2023  |  haiti.loopnews.com  |  French  |  Internal Conflict

Russian President Vladimir Putin condemned the Wagner Group's leader, Evguéni Prigojine, for treason, highlighting the risk of civil war. The Russian military initiated operations in Voronezh, while Prigojine claimed control over military sites in Rostov. Putin's government, supported by parliamentary leaders, vowed to punish the traitors. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized Russia's weakness, asserting Ukraine's role in protecting Europe. The situation has drawn international attention, with leaders from the EU, UK, and US monitoring developments closely.

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Georgia Meloni Vladimir Putin Evguéni Prigojine Alexandre Goussev Viatcheslav Volodine Valentina Matvienko Volodymyr Zelensky Igor Krasnov Dmitri Peskov Sergueï Choïgou Sergueï Sourovikine Mikhaïl Khodorkovski Emmanuel Macron Rishi Sunak

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Vanja Popovic is a journalist based in Beograd, Serbia.

Intesa Leasing surpasses one billion euros in financing

05 Oct 2023  |  Bloomberg Adria  |  Serbian  |  Business

Intesa Leasing, part of Banca Intesa, has surpassed one billion euros in financing in Serbia, achieving its best business results in the first half of 2023. The company holds a significant market share in leasing commercial and passenger vehicles and plans to focus on digitalization and financing renewable energy and hybrid vehicles. Intesa Sanpaolo, the parent company, reported an 80% increase in net earnings and a 20.19% rise in stock price this year. Italian banks face pressure due to a proposed windfall tax by Prime Minister Georgia Meloni, though the proposal is still under parliamentary review.

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Georgia Meloni Nebojša Janićijević

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Beatriz Rios is a reporter, broadcast journalist and events moderator based in Brussels, Belgium.

The ratification of the agreement with Mercosur, in the hands of undecided countries

15 Dec 2024  |  www.levante-emv.com  |  Spanish  |  European Union Politics

The European Union is navigating the complex process of ratifying a trade agreement with Mercosur, facing opposition from countries like France and Poland, who are concerned about the impact on agriculture. While some EU countries, including Spain and Germany, support the agreement, others remain undecided. The European Commission is considering ratification by qualified majority, but opposition from key countries could block the agreement. The outcome depends on the positions of undecided countries like Italy, Austria, and Ireland, with the process expected to be lengthy and intricate.

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Georgia Meloni Ursula von der Leyen Emmanuel Macron Donald Tusk Jean-Claude Juncker Annie Genevard Martin Kocher Charlie McConalogue Eelco Heinen

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Henry Samuel is a journalist based in Paris, France.

Immigration bill 'will do nothing to solve France's problems', says RN leader

21 Dec 2023  |  Yahoo Entertainment  |  English  |  European Union

Jordan Bardella, leader of France's right-wing National Rally (RN), criticized President Emmanuel Macron's immigration bill, claiming it is insufficient to address France's immigration issues. Bardella, who backed the bill after it was amended by conservatives, is preparing for the possibility of leading a cohabitation government and has begun taking English lessons. RN's support has increased, with polls suggesting they would win if elections were held today. Bardella, a protégé of Marine Le Pen, has risen in popularity and is seen as a potential prime minister. The RN is capitalizing on dissatisfaction with Macron's government, and Bardella's European election campaign will focus on immigration and opposition to the EU's liberal agenda. He also commented on EU asylum laws and the UK's Rwanda deportation policy, preferring asylum processing in embassies and consulates.

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Georgia Meloni Emmanuel Macron Jordan Bardella Marine Le Pen Jean-Marie Le Pen Dominique Bernard Geert Wilders Rishi Sunak

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I'm an independent journalist, based in Amsterdam, with a keen interest in press freedom, human rights and podcasting. With experience in producing, reporting and presenting news for radio, television and online content using software like Avid Media Manager and Adobe Audition, I currently ...

Malta welcomes foreign workers to fill labour shortage, but repels refugees

04 Dec 2023  |  www.aljazeera.com  |  English  |  Human Rights

Malta has become a hub for migrants, particularly from South and Southeast Asia, to fill labor shortages in sectors like hospitality, healthcare, and services. Former Prime Minister Joseph Muscat's policies have facilitated this influx, aiming to replicate Dubai's migrant worker recruitment system. However, Malta has been criticized for its treatment of refugees, with accusations of illegal pushbacks at sea. Rights groups and independent researchers highlight the disparity in treatment between contracted migrants and refugees, with the former often exploited by recruitment agencies and the latter facing harsh government measures. The Maltese government is drafting new rules for recruitment agencies, but human rights organizations argue for more stringent legislation to protect migrant workers. The situation reflects a broader European trend of welcoming foreign labor while adopting hostile policies towards undocumented migrants.

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Georgia Meloni Joseph Muscat Robert Abela Neil Falzon Bram Frouws

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Anchal Vohra is a Beirut-based TV and Print journalist. She is a freelance Correspondent for AJ English and a writer on the Middle east for Foreign Policy. She also contributes to the Times, the Atlantic, the Telegraph, the New Statesman, and Berlin Policy Journal. Ms Vohra has been Deutsche Welle ...

A Far-Right Takeover of Europe Is Underway

13 Mar 2024  |  Foreign Policy  |  English  |  Far-Right Politics

As Europe prepares for EU Parliament elections, polls predict significant gains for right-wing populists, potentially leading to a right-majority parliament for the first time since 1979. The far-right groups, Identity and Democracy (ID) and European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR), are expected to gain seats at the expense of liberals and Greens. This shift could impact EU policies on migration, climate change, and defense. The center-right European People’s Party (EPP) may align with far-right parties, further shifting the balance of power. Critics argue this could undermine the EU's commitment to democratic values and humane policies.

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Georgia Meloni Viktor Orban Marco Campomenosi Charlie Weimers Joachim Kuhs Pedro Marques Ursula Von Der Leyen Hans Kundnani Marine Le Pen Matteo Salvini Alexei Navalny

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Eszter Zalan is a Hungarian journalist working for Brussels-based news portal EUobserver specialising in European politics, focusing on populism and Brexit. Before immersing herself into the "EU bubble", Eszter reported on conflict and war zones from Afghanistan, Iraq, Yemen, Egypt and other places ...

Far right in Italy and Spain target rainbow families and flags

05 Oct 2023  |  euobserver.com  |  English  |  Legislation

Italy is considering a law to criminalize surrogacy for its citizens abroad, with severe penalties, seen as an attack on LGBTI families. This move is supported by Prime Minister Georgia Meloni. Meanwhile, Spain's far-right party is targeting the rainbow flag, reflecting a broader trend of far-right politics challenging LGBTI rights in both countries.

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Georgia Meloni

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