The coming world order
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has upended the world order—and with it the energy, production, distribution and finance systems.
Politics
Analysis and debate on European and national politics, democracy, the rule of law, parties and elections, and Europe’s place in the world.
Has the war in Ukraine made the EU a geopolitical actor?
Suddenly, Nicoletta Pirozzi writes, the EU’s ‘geopolitical’ claims have become essential, not aspirational.
The origins of Putin’s totalitarianism
The siloviki who gained power during Putin’s early years have been replaced by faceless security technocrats—real heirs to the KGB.
A citizens’ Europe?
Michele Fiorillo, Seamus Montgomery, Fabio Di Nunno and Alvaro Oleart
The Conference on the Future of Europe could lead to a new European constitution.
Seizing the assets of Russian oligarchs
The episode has proved, Branko Milanovic writes, that Russia is not ruled by a few rich men but by a single autocrat.
A new era of containment?
The security architecture of the past 50 years is in ruins. Robert Misik maps a policy for the new cold war.
A new age of party democracy
Critical to the rebuilding of crumbled political pillars such as the Parti Socialiste in France is the installation of party democracy.
The French unwilling willingness
The renewed polarisation between Macron and Le Pen in the presidential election conceals a pas de deux.
Ukraine, NATO and a Zeitenwende
Russia has upended the old rules-based order, Paul Mason writes. Europe needs to shape a new one.
Fidesz and Orbán triumph in Hungary’s skewed elections
Orbán’s return to power was eased by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine but the playing-field was already far from level.
Equality favours democracy
Ukraine has been invaded by one of Europe’s most unequal countries. But then equality is one of democracy’s strongest buttresses.
How the radical right uses emotions for political gain
Rūta Kazlauskaitė and Gwenaëlle Bauvois
Individuals prone to shame and resentment may be drawn to radical-right rhetoric.
Sanctions on Russia: the next phase
Sanctions have so far been economic and short-term. The long-term goal of political freedom in Russia must be kept in mind.
Putin’s war will destroy Russia
By attacking another European country, Putin crossed a line drawn after World War II. But he also changed Russia.
What’s at stake in Slovenia’s election?
Slovenia rarely makes headlines in Europe—but its election will say a lot about the future of the EU.
Orbán, Putin and prospects for democracy in Hungary
The popularity of Hungary’s authoritarian prime minister had been waning. The invasion of Ukraine may offer an electoral lifeline.