The Brief, powered by EHFG — Replacing tents with concrete

The EU’s repackaged migration pact could be finalised in the weeks after next year’s French presidential elections. At least that’s what Commission Vice-President Margaritis Schinas told this website.

Factbox: An intensifying arms race in Asia

Analysts warn that Asia may be sliding into an accelerating arms race as countries react to China's military growth. Here is a list of defence systems several Asian countries are looking to acquire.

IEA says Russia could do more to supply Europe with gas

The International Energy Agency (IEA) said on Tuesday (21 September) Russia could do more to help alleviate gas supply issues in Europe which have driven prices up to record highs over the past month.

‘Year of Youth’ gets early start with Erasmus going digital

On Tuesday (21 September), the European Commission announced a significant upgrade to the app for students studying abroad on an EU-funded scheme, a week after EU Commission president Ursula von der Leyen announced she would push to make 2022 the ’Year of European Youth‘.

The weaponisation of Nord Stream 2 has already started

Global market trends surely play a role in explaining the current gas price rally, but the shell game played by the Kremlin is here for everyone to see unless we choose to look the other way, writes Mykhailo Gonchar.

Energy ministers to hold first exchange on EU’s 2030 climate laws

In their first meeting since the European Commission tabled an overhaul of climate legislation in July, EU energy ministers are due to discuss two major files that will drive Europe’s push towards clean energy, according to a room document seen by EURACTIV.

Russia ‘responsible’ for killing dissident Litvinenko: Europe rights court

The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) on Tuesday (21 September) ruled that Russia was "responsible" for the 2006 killing in London of the dissident former agent Alexander Litvinenko with the radioactive substance Polonium.

Italy launches national hub to fight disinformation

Italy launched its national hub to fight disinformation - the Italian Digital Media Observatory - at the University LUISS of Rome on Monday (20 September) as part of a European network of eight national hubs.

Another battle in the “War on Cars” plays out in the streets

Moves to promote sustainable urban mobility are often seen as evidence of an assault on motorists' right to drive. But if there is a war against cars, events like car-free day may well see enlistment numbers swell.

Spain wants EU ‘menu’ of measures to combat power price surges

Spain urged the European Commission on Monday (20 September) to devise guidance to help member states react consistently to power price spikes without testing the rules of the bloc, and suggested moves to limit carbon market speculators and build up gas reserves.

Poland refuses to close disputed coal mine despite EU court penalty

Poland vowed to keep its disputed Turów coal mine running despite being hit with a €500,000 daily penalty for defying an earlier court ruling to halt operations on Monday (20 September).

Rivals allege mass fraud in Russia election, EU refuses to recognise the Crimea poll

Opponents accused Russian authorities of mass fraud on Monday (20 September) after the ruling United Russia party, which supports President Vladimir Putin, won a bigger than expected parliamentary majority despite unease over living standards.

As energy prices spike, EU points to long-term fixes

The European Commission is monitoring the evolution of electricity prices “very closely,” said the EU’s energy commissioner Kadri Simson, pointing to long-term fixes like investments in energy savings and renewables as the main answer at European level.

Germany urged to boost early testing to tackle Alzheimer’s disease

Germany has already launched numerous initiatives to combat Alzheimer's disease but needs to catch up in early detection, which could become essential for future medical treatment, researchers and medical experts told EURACTIV.de.

Czechia seeks deal over fine in Turow mine dispute with Poland

In today's edition of the Capitals, find out more about Czechia prefering to strike a deal with Poland regarding the Turow mine dispute, France proposing a fund to help freelance journalists impacted by COVID-19, and so much more.

Hungary’s Orban launches election campaign with €1.7 billion tax refund for families

Hungary's government will refund $2 billion of income tax to families in early 2022 and also plans a big hike in the minimum wage, right-wing Prime Minister Viktor Orbán said on Monday, setting the stage for next year's election.

How to make Europe’s cities more liveable for people – not cars

To achieve deep and permanent cuts in air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, cars must become the exception in cities, not the rule. Bold political action will be needed at local, regional, national and European levels, argues Lorelei Limousin.

France eyes momentum at UN on Iran nuclear deal talks

France's top diplomat said Monday (20 September) that he hoped a meeting of foreign ministers in New York this week would build positive momentum towards kick-starting stalled talks over the Iran nuclear deal.

EU foreign policy chief warns Mali against Russian mercenary deal

European Union ties with Mali could be seriously affected if it allows Russian private military contractors to operate in the country, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell warned on Monday (20 September).

EU backs France in submarine dispute, asking: Is America back?

European Union foreign ministers expressed support and solidarity with France on Monday (20 September) during a meeting in New York to discuss Australia's scrapping of a $40 billion submarine order with Paris in favor of a US and British deal.

Collecting more and better: the final push to reach 100% glass circularity

Glass packaging already has one of the highest recycling rates in Europe, but better collection of a greater amount of glass is needed to meet Europe’s goal of a 75% recycling rate and, eventually, reach complete circularity.