110 Years of Women's Suffrage in France: A Journey of Resilience and Progress
By Mariia Orudzhova
The late 1800s witnessed a significant upsurge in the emancipation of women in France, with working-class women at the forefront of the suffrage movement. Their active participation, despite societal and economic challenges, led to their inclusion in local elections in the early twentieth century. A crucial debate emerged regarding whether women's rights should be derived from their increased political involvement or granted as a formal aspect of citizenship.
Expanding Democratic Participation: A Symbolic Vote for a More Inclusive European Governance
By Amedeo Gasparini
Ahead of the European elections on June 9th, the upcoming symbolic vote organized by ECIT Foundation, Voters Without Borders, and Stand Up for Europe presents an opportunity to advocate for a more inclusive European democracy. Scheduled for April 26th, in Brussels – on the esplanade of the European Parliament and in Place de la Petite Suisse, close to ULB-Solbosch – the event aims to highlight the importance of extending political rights within the EU. Volunteers are free to join and will be asked to hold a symbolic vote on three demands, while a parallel symbolic vote will be held in Paris, Berlin, Bologna, Geneva, and London to celebrate International Voting Rights Day. An online symbolic vote will also be open until June 9th, when a full report on the results of the symbolic vote will be published and sent to the newly elected MEPs.
Debunking the Myth: Does 80% of Legislation in the EU Really Come from the Union Government?
By Miguel Suárez
In the realm of European Union (EU) discussions, a prevailing assertion stands out: that as much as 80% of the legislation within the EU stems from the Union government. If this statement holds true, it would portray a highly centralized governance system where the Union wields considerable influence over member states. Nevertheless, a more thorough analysis of the EU's legislative procedures unveils a much more complex reality. Along this article, the 80% claim will be put to question, and with the scope of the upcoming European Elections in June, we will try to determine to what extent Brussels actually decides the legislation of the Member States.
Tip of the iceberg? The importance of accountability during armed conflicts in light of the attacks on WCK aid workers
by Lisa Zadrozny Stausholm
This Thursday at the STAM debate panel coorganized with Stand Up For Europe, Marta Barandiy said something that resonated with me in light of this week’s deadly attack in Gaza on World Central Kitchen (WCK) humanitarian workers. She urged : “it is crucial that we do not take for granted our human rights, that we protect them and promote our European values all across the world. The same way young European citizens don’t remember a life without Europe, our future children may not remember a life where human rights are respected.” A violent reminder that societies can very quickly slide into inequality, injustice and abuse of power, undermining the dignity and well-being of all, echoed loudly with the deaths of seven World Central Kitchen Aid Workers and the rise of Gaza civilian casualties. It is crucial that these attacks now act as an electrochoc that puts an end to the worldwide climate of lack of accountability that has been settling in for a couple of decades. Acknowledging and safeguarding human rights starts by holding accountable institutions, armies and countries who violate them.
Saudi Arabia chosen to hold the presidency of the CSW, the UN commission for Women’s Rights.
By Miguel Suárez
The United Nations (UN) has long been regarded as a beacon of hope for advancing gender equality and women's rights worldwide. One of the organizations surveilling concretely the matter of Women’s rights around the world is the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW), which is part of the United Nations Economic and Social Council, one of the most important organisms within the UN.
The CSW, apart from their daily activities, organizes an annual forum in which they negotiate and publish a report on the development of gender equality in the world. The controversy arose when Saudi Arabia was chosen as the rotatory president of the Commission and as the host country for the forum 2025.
Apart from the several NGOs and international organizations that have questioned the decision during this week, a great wave of critics has emerged from the civil society, especially on social media. These critics are sustained on the continuous reports of violations both of the Human Rights and the Rights of the Women in the country. Along this article, the current situation of the Rights in the country and the possible reasons behind this decision by the Committee will be explored and discussed, in order to unveil the ethical and moral implications of this decision.
Binding the Youth Vote: Belgium's Mandatory Shift in EU Election Participation
By Katarina Stanojevic
Belgium, as a Member State of the EU, has also been at the forefront of discussions surrounding the voting age and electoral participation. In 2022, Belgium enacted a law that expanded voting rights to include Belgian citizens and other EU nationals residing in Belgium, aged between 16 and 18, in European elections (Mańko, 2023). This legislative change marked a significant departure from the previous voting age requirement and aimed to empower younger citizens to participate in the democratic process. Currently, the Court has suspended a provision in the law (see ruling nr. 35/2024), which makes voting mandatory solely for adults and not for 16- and 17-year-olds. This ruling means that voting will now be compulsory for individuals aged 16 and 17, with the possibility of sanctions for non-compliance. However, the implementation of this law has faced legal challenges and ongoing debates regarding mandatory voting and associated sanctions.
The 2024 Russian Presidential "Election": A Gangster's Seizure of Power
Vladimir Putin submitting documents to Central Election Commission in December 2023. Photo: Presidential Administration of the Russian Federation
By Mariia Orudzhova
The three-day electoral exercise – [the 2024 Russian presidential ‘election’, that was held from 15 to 17 March] - is over. And this article will cover why it was illigimate from the very beginning to the very end.
Let's remember about the legal framework of what was going on in Russia in 2020 - the constitutional changes were taking place. The constitution of the Russian Federation was changed - the word 'consecutive' in: ‘limit to 2 consecutive terms’, - was destroyed. The amendment allowed Putin to run for the presidency in 2024 again by nullifying his terms. Preservation of power is the main purpose and raison d'être of any autocracy.
Green Claims Directive: Battling Greenwashing for a Sustainable Future
by Lisa Zadrozny Stausholm
During this Tuesday’s plenary session, 12th March 2024, the Green Claims Directive (GCD) proposed by the Commission in March of 2023 passed. This initiative echoes the objectives of the European Green Deal looking to transform Europe into a circular economy, which means managing resources efficiently, conserving energy and reducing waste, thus benefiting both the economy and the environment. In practical terms, this deal legally requires all EU Member States to reduce Europe’s emissions by a minimum of 55% by 2030.
But what is the GDC and why is it needed? How does it hold companies engaging in greenwashing accountable? And how will small businesses be impacted?
The EU construction of corruption deconstruction: Anti-Money laundering authority (AMLA)
By Katarina Stanojevic
The proposal made on July 20, 2021 by the European Commission to establish the European Union Anti-Money Laundering Authority (AMLA) marks a crucial stride in addressing the escalating threats of money laundering and terrorism financing in Europe. This initiative is a top priority for the European Union (EU) in combating organized and serious international crime. AMLA is a pivotal component of the comprehensive action plan introduced in 2020 to curb these criminal activities
Challenges and Demands: Understanding the Farmers' Protests Shaping Europe's Agricultural Landscape
By Miguel Suárez
As almost every EU citizen knows already, European farmers have stood up against the situation of injustice they live in, as a result of some decisions taken by the European Institutions. Protests have been taking place on the continent since at least 2019; however, since February 1st 2024, they have intensified notably, especially in Brussels, where the headquarters of most of the government apparatuses of the Union are concentrated. But it is worth mentioning that they are taking place in practically all countries of the old continent.
This week has seen a new episode of protests in the Belgian capital, as a consequence of the summit of EU agriculture ministers that took place on Monday, February 26th, and based on its result, it does not look like they are going to be the last ones.
We will try to address this broad topic in the best way possible, but let’s take this from the beginning: What are the demands of the farmers? What injustices are we talking about? How long will this wave of protests last? Is there any satisfactory solution in the short term? These questions, and some others that will emerge, will be the ones we will try to answer in this article.
EU’s Response: 2-Year Retrospective on the Full-Scale Russian War Against Ukraine
By Mariia Orudzhova
3,655 days,
near 500 000 of total war victims (The New York Times, 2023),
more than 6 300 000 Ukrainian refugees recorded globally (UN Refugee Agency, 2024)
Since 2014, Ukrainians have been courageously defending their borders against Russian aggression for a decade. The illegal annexation of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea by Russian troops on March 18th, 2014, marked a turning point, followed by the outbreak of war in the Donbas region of Ukraine in April 2014, leading to devastating consequences for the Ukrainian people. On September 20th, 2022, seven months after the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine commenced, the annexation of additional Ukrainian territories—Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson regions—occurred through internationally unrecognized referendums orchestrated by Russian occupation authorities. This brazen act of aggression further exacerbated tensions and highlighted the urgent need for international solidarity in support of Ukraine's territorial integrity. As Ukraine enters the 3rd year of full-scale war in 2024, the forms of resistance have changed. But the desire of Ukrainians to live in a free and sovereign country continues to strengthen with each passing day, underscoring their commitment to defending democracy, human dignity, and human rights.
The European Union (EU) has emerged as a key ally in Ukrainian resistance to Russian aggression. Recognizing theimportance of the fundamental values as democracy and human rights, the EU has played a pivotal role in supporting Ukraine through a multifaceted approach. The EU acknowledges and respects the unwavering determination of Ukrainians in their struggle for these shared values and the preservation of their territorial independence. This encompasses with financial assistance, targeted sanctions against Russia, provision of humanitarian aid, military support, and expressions of solidarity with the Ukrainian people.
The EU Digital Service Act and Digital Market Act
By Lisa Zadrozny Stausholm
This Saturday February 17th 2024, the Digital Services Act (DSA) package will become fully applicable to all digital services entities spanning from basic websites to internet infrastructure and online platforms. Although the DSA and the Digital Market Act (DMA) were both adopted by the European Parliament in July 2022 and the package became effective on August 25, 2023, it applied solely to large platforms and search engines. One key aspect of the DSA is its differentiation between very large platforms and smaller intermediaries. This innovative legal framework marks a significant milestone in the regulation of online platforms, more so now that digital services have a massive economical, social and ideological societal impact and that a minimal digital presence is a necessity in order to navigate our society. Therefore, this regulation is essential to provide all European citizens with a harmonised and sustainable regulation that values a transparent and safe digital market and society that protects democratic values and their right to confidentiality all across Europes
L'UE Lance un Fonds de Soutien à la Défense de 175 Millions d'euros
By Jean Marsia
La Commission européenne et le Fonds européen d'investissement (FEI) ont uni, le 12 janvier, leurs forces pour renforcer leur soutien à la défense et à la sécurité de l'UE par le lancement du mécanisme de fonds propres dans le domaine de la défense.
The 2024 European Parliament Elections, an Important Step to the European Federation?
By Jean Marsia
The hope of lasting peace that raised by the implosion of the Soviet Union was short-lived. Putin’s declaration of war on the West in Munich in 2007, the invasion of Georgia he ordered in 2008, followed by
the invasion of Crimea and part of the Donbass in 2014, have shattered our illusions but were not enough to shake the Atlantic and European institutions as well as our heads of state and government out of their torpor. They are just as incapable of dealing with the threats of today as others were in the 1910s, 1930s and 1990s. They were unable to prevent the two world wars or the implosion of the former Yugoslavia. Again, we are moving helplessly towards a new catastrophe.
From Rivalry to Unity: The Schuman Declaration's Enduring Legacy in Shaping a United Europe
By Mariia Orudzhova
The Schuman Declaration was written by French foreign minister Robert Schuman and presented on 9 May 1950 (Blair, 2014). Western European nations sought avenues for closer integration and collaboration in this tumultuous era; the Schuman Declaration emerged as a beacon of hope and a catalyst for transformative change. It must be situated in the aftermath of the widespread destruction of two world wars and in the context of a budding Cold War increasingly dividing Western and Eastern Europe (Cox, 2016). In this environment, Western European countries were keen to develop closer integration and co-operation (Hay & Menon, 2007). In particular, France and Germany, as the hardest-hit countries, were looking to end their "age-old rivalry" (Greenwood, 1996). The Schuman Declaration stated, "Europe will not be made all at once, or according to a single plan". In this vein, the Schuman Declaration proposed that "Franco-German production of coal and steel be placed under a common 'high authority'" that was also open to other countries joining as the "first concrete foundation for a European Federation which is so indispensable to the preservation of peace" (Schuman, 2011).
Alarm in the European Council! Could Orbán gain power in the EU?
By Miguel Suárez
In an unexpected turn of events, Charles Michel, the former Belgian prime minister and current president of the European Council, announced his intention to run as the head of his party - the Belgian Reformist Movement - for the upcoming European Parliament elections taking place in June 2024. Despite his position as president of the EU Council, he has stated that he will take his chair as MEP if elected, leaving a vacancy in the presidency of this key European Organism.
Policy Analysis: E.U.'s Green Deal
By Mariia Orudzhova
Climate change and environmental degradation pose significant threats not only to Europe but also to the global community. To combat these challenges, the European Union (E.U.) formulated the European Green Deal (EGD), a transformative strategy to reshape the E.U. into a modern, resource-efficient, and competitive economy. Introduced in December 2019, this pivotal policy outlines a roadmap for member nations to achieve the ambitious goal of climate neutrality by 2050, effectively redefining Europe's economic and environmental landscape.
Why are Women Underrepresented in Parliaments and Senates?
By Miguel Suárez
It is no surprise for anybody to say that women are usually underrepresented in the majority of the national legislative assemblies, such as parliaments, all around the world. At the moment, from the data recorded women represent a 26.7% (IPU, 2023) of the seats of the world legislative chambers this should indeed be surprising, given that, according to the World Bank Database, they constitute a 49,7% of the world population (2020).
Unraveling Toxic Masculinity:
The Interplay of Culture, Politics, and Social Norms in the Middle East
By Amr Amin
This analysis explores the genesis and ramifications of toxic masculinity in the Middle East, tracing its roots to historical factors, conservative ideologies, and societal expectations. The study unveils how cultural paradigms, gender roles, and political structures intertwine to perpetuate a rigid and detrimental definition of masculinity. The stifling of individual expression, intolerance towards deviation, and the reinforcement of patriarchal norms contribute to a toxic environment affecting both men and women. The juxtaposition of tradition and modernity further complicates the region's struggle, calling for a reevaluation of societal values. The abstract emphasizes the need for understanding and addressing the environmental factors shaping behaviors, promoting inclusivity, and challenging oppressive norms for a more harmonious society in the Middle East.
10 years of Croatia in the European Union
By Mario Vega
Croatia celebrates 10 years in the EU, a decade in which the country achieved several milestones. While facing some challenges, it tackled territorial disputes and completed strategic projects. However, asylum complexities show a worrying lack of rule of law, and border disputes are believed to persist. Balancing relations with neighbours and addressing their EU candidacy challenges remains crucial for Croatia's foreign policy in this new phase after 10 years in the club.
The Transylvanian Question: overcoming political tensions in intercultural spaces
By Sebastian Berchešan
Throughout the ages, the desire for territorial dominance and the use of natural resources created many conflicts between peoples and ethnic groups. Numerous wars, bloody revolts and hatred feelings erupted between the oppressors and the oppressed. In this context, peaceful coexistence and cooperation between different nations seems to be difficult to achieve but, as history proved it, and as the remarkable European politician Robert Schuman phrased it: “We increasingly and clearly acknowledge the existence of a common good, superior to national interest. A common good into which our countries’ individual interests are merged.” (Krijtenburg, 2020)
Pornography: Control Masquerading as Freedom
By Layla Brener
In the twenty-first century, western culture has seen revolutionary growth in acceptance of sexuality and sexual behavior - the sex-positive movement. In particular, pornography has become less taboo and shameful over the years, flipping into something more regular and liberating. Some may applaud this greater acceptance of pornography, but in Pornography: Men Possessing Women by Andrea Dworkin, it is argued to be an aggressor in women's sexual enslavement. In the introduction and opening chapter -titled "Power"- of her societal critique, she proclaims it to be a tool of male dominance; Hateful and dangerous to the true liberation of women from subjugation and violence.
The evolution of democracy: challenges and diverse concepts in human history
By Mariia Orudzhova
The history of humanity demonstrates that democracy has intensive development, and nations adjust to emerging trends. If some changes associated with the formation of information societies contribute to democracy, the growing economic, social, and cultural differentiation erects new barriers to democratic regimes, testing their strength. It turns out that democracy creates conditions under which people can establish a decent life, elect their own government, and exercise control over its activities (Sartori, 2000).
Les limites géostratégiques de l'UE mises en lumière par les derniers évènements
By Laura Nolasco Espino
DISCLAIMER: all opinions in this article reflect the views of the author, not the position of STAND UP FOR EUROPE.
Au moins, l'Europe n'a pas à subir la fameuse plaisanterie de Henry Kissinger (ancien secrétaire d'État américain) lorsqu'il a déclaré qu'il ne savait pas qui appeler lorsqu'il voulait appeler l'Europe. De toutes façons, personne n’appelle.
Ces derniers temps, nous avons vu l'Europe passer du statut d'acteur international pertinent et utile à la transformation du monde, à celui d'ONG bien intentionnée ; dont les actions humanitaires sont bienvenues, mais dont tout le reste est relégué à l'arrière-plan.
Breaking barriers: navigating the gender gap in the 21st century
By Asia Menendez
The gender gap is a persistent and widespread issue worldwide. It concerns the inequalities between men and women in various aspects of life, including work, education, and political participation.
Over the past years, these issues have become more prominent in the socio-political level. Beginning with an initial motivation tied to upholding human dignity without any form of discrimination, this topic has gradually gained importance as a fundamental pillar for constructing a healthier society and a stronger, more effective work and business environment.
Despite progress made in recent decades, the gender gap remains a significant problem that requires a deep analysis and decisive actions.
The EU's crisis dependency
By Jordy Benooit
The recent release of the Franco-German Report on EU Institutional Reform signals a growing momentum for institutional reform within the EU, the kind we have not seen in almost two decades. The Lisbon Treaty (2007-2009) ushered in the European Union (EU) as we know it today, and with it its current decision making procedures. One significant innovation introduced under the Lisbon Treaty is the simplified revision procedure, which grants the EU a degree of flexibility to adapt if need be by allowing the European Council to change parts of the Treaty on the Functioning of the EU (TFEU) through unanimous agreement. Regrettably, the EU’s overreliance on the procedure has pushed back the incentives for substantial institutional reform whilst making any reform efforts conditional on institutional and societal crises.
A generational Mental Health Awakening: Navigating a New Era of Awareness
By Asia Menendez
In a world characterised by rapid technological advancement and shifting societal norms, one of the most promising developments we've witnessed is the heightened awareness and open dialogue surrounding mental health. The new generations referred to as Generation Z and Millennials, have emerged as trailblazers in this crucial arena. They are reshaping the conversation around mental health, debunking stigma, and demonstrating an inspiring resilience in the face of unprecedented challenges such as Covid, global war, high rates of unemployment and financial instability.
To buy or not to buy? The dual approach of Gen Z to Fast fashion
By Asia Menendez
The week from 17 to 23 September we celebrate World clean and green week, what better time to talk about it! In fact, Fast fashion has a very strong environmental impact. For example, according to a recent report by CNBC, “Just one pair of regular jeans requires 3,625 litres of water which equals to the same amount of water one person requires for surviving for around 2.5 years. Before diving any further, let's start from the beginning.
In the first part, this article will analyse the historical origin of the term ‘Fast fashion’, deepening its development over time. It will continue then by focusing on the issues originated from this phenomenon and the duality that can be perceived towards this industry from the point of view of Generation Z.
A Snapshot Dump for the European Energy Crisis
By Zeynep Önal
Despite high tension and insecure socio-political atmosphere, the Europe has overcome the last winter. Russia’s Ukrainian invasion, Putin’s aggression and economic black mills have revealed the Europe’s weakness on specific themes such as food security and energy security. Especially, the energy security factor has attracted the attention as the biggest vulnerability of Europe in front of Russia. The European Union’s dependence on Russia in energy has been the most controversial topic. In this short piece, we will have a look at the current status and remarkable highlights of the European Union’s energy agenda. However, firstly, what does energy security means and why it is important for the Europe will be elaborated.
EU accession: the question on Western Balkan integration
By Jordy Benooit
Get ready, it’s happening! But don’t hold your breath.
The declaration made by Charles Michel, President of the European Council, on August 28, 2023, that "enlargement is no longer a dream"1 represents a significant development in the longstanding effort to integrate the Western Balkan countries into the European Union. This region has been a priority for EU integration since 20032, yet the current accession process has proven ineffective over the past two decades. Are we about to write a new chapter on European integration, or are we adding another paragraph to our list of broken commitments?
Non-Religious Spiritual Practices and the Remedy for Women
By Layla Brener
Societally, believing in astrology and especially daily horoscopes has become incredibly polarizing. Most people either swear by it or find it childish and fake. Noticeably, women make up an overwhelming percentage of advocates for astrology and other non-religious spiritual practices. Examples of these practices include Tarot card readings, manifestation, affirmations, reiki healing, and meditation, among many other holistic forms of self-care. Non-religious spiritual practices, NRSP for short, will be an umbrella term for "Holistic spiritual practices aimed at attaining wholeness and well-being of body, mind, and spirit…" (The 'gender puzzle' of alternative medicine and holistic spirituality Keshet and Simchai). Non-religious spiritual practices strengthen women in the West by removing gender prejudices present in religion and prioritizing both physical and mental health.
The War on Terror and its ‘regimes of truth’
By Sebastian Berchesan
Following 9/11 the word ‘terrorist’ came to be used as a stand-alone term with no need for explanation. Post-structuralist theory would use this as an example that the mainstream political discourse nowadays tends to get dominated by universalist assertions based on subjective notions, often ‘produced’ rather than ‘discovered’. In this context, language can be seen as the core aspect in the formulation and preservation of what philosophers such as Foucault call ‘dominant discourse’ based on pairs of opposite terms that will always favour one to the detriment of the other. The ‘War on Terror’ showcases how such public speech can propagate certain political attitudes even at the heart of consolidated democracies, denouncing its dangers.
Why the UK Should not Rejoin, for now
By Jordy Benooit
April 2023, a pivotal moment in the Brexit saga. A majority of Brits, for the first time in seven years, would support their countries' return to the European Union. In those seven years they have seen three prime ministers resign, their economy in a perpetual state of crises, living standards in a freefall, and their country subjected to international ridicule and marginalisation. The British have had enough. To reverse the negative effects of Brexit, Brexit itself needs to be reversed and the UK must rejoin. Based on that premise, I argue that it is in the greater interest of the Union that the UK is kept out, for now.
Will Globalization Be A Tool For Global Equality?
By Maia Brener
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) was adopted by the UN General Assembly in 1948. This nonbinding treaty, which has currently been signed by 192 states around the world, is one of the most important documents in the field of human rights. It outlines the thirty universal human rights. Article 1 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights states, "All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights." Article 2 ensures this equality by stating that everybody has the right to freedom from discrimination. These rights are indivisible and interdependent. They can only be enjoyed to the fullest extent when all of them are in use. If only some are granted and others are restricted, then the people are not fully free.
Moldova: Over 30 years of politics in between East and West
By Sebastian Berchesan
Abstract:
The Republic of Moldova, although being a relatively young independent state in the region of Eastern Europe, it has a complex history of positioning itself between the West and the East. As a former Western Soviet country, after gaining independence in 1991, it maintained significant links to Moscow while also showing aspirations to get involved in the process of European integration. This article aims to analyse the developments and the determinants of this process in the Post-Soviet context. It takes into consideration the historical factors that led to the current situation in Moldova, the existing links to Romania, Russia, the Post-Soviet Institutions and the European Union, capturing a comprehensive picture of the current situation in the country.
The Spanish Presidency of the Council of the European Union: A Presidency Marked by National Elections and Difficult European Challenges
By Clare Vecino Prieto
Abstract:
The Spanish Presidency in the Council of the European Union comes at a crucial juncture, as the country faces both internal and external challenges while simultaneously preparing for national elections. As the rotating presidency from June to January 2024, Spain must address significant issues, propose effective solutions, and balance its domestic political landscape during this critical period.
Critical Feminism: Political Movement and Theory
By Sebastian Berchesan
Abstract:
Among most significant theories and movements in contemporary International Relations, Feminism occupies a popular place nowadays, challenging the previous complete absence of women from politics and IR studies. The beginnings of this shift can be traced back one century ago, during a period when some of the biggest social and ideological changes occurred. While the first emancipation movements appeared in liberal democratic political systems, the widespread of equal political rights between men and women took place under the communist doctrine. This represents the starting point of one main branch of Feminist studies nowadays – Critical/ Marxist Feminism. The present article analyses the premises of Critical Feminism both as a political movement and IR theory, overlooking at the main differences between the arguments of Marxist feminists and liberal ones.
The European Green Taxonomy: A Technical Tool or A Political Agenda?
By Ece Ucar
Abstract:
The EU Green taxonomy is one of the measures undertaken as part of green transformation actions following the announcement of the Green Deal. This financial instrument, which also ensures the influx of green finance into the EU, was developed by the Union specifically for the categorization of production and investment. However, there are significant obstacles to the implementation of this technical tool, including greenwashing, politicization, and the harmonization of technical capacity across Member States.
The Nature Restoration Law
By Emelie Teumer
Abstract:
The proposed Nature Restoration Law is intended to become a comprehensive law for all member states of the European Union. The restoration of ecosystems is at the core of this proposal. Currently, this proposal is under discussion. Parties, committees as well as member states have several distinguished concerns. The Nature Restoration Law is expected to pass before the end of this legislative period.
Greece Legislative Elections: A Big Yes to Mitsotakis
By Zeynep Önal Aytaç
Abstract:
Long-waited Greece Legislative Elections took place on May 21. Greeks voted for their parliament and gave the green light to Mitsotakis for five more years to lead the country. Despite the great victory Mitsotakis's New Democracy failed to reach the sufficient majority to form a single-party government. Now, Greece is waiting for the second election on June 25 to finalize the race.
The Unseen Capital of Culture 2025
By Emelie Teumer
Abstract:
A multitude of countries with different cultures and regional characteristics - and yet one Europe. European values unite us and create a European way of life.
Promoting the European way of life is one of the most important legislative proposals of the European Parliament, the Council of the European Union, and the European Commission. This includes upholding the rule of law, combating all forms of discrimination, and Europe's cultural diversity. Stand Up For Europe follows these Key Legislative Proposals in many activities and projects.
Whether it is breathtaking architecture, stirring music or amazing works of art, unique cultural experiences can be found in every country. Promoting and enabling togetherness is supported by a number of European Union initiatives, such as the European Capital of Culture.
First Round in Turkey's Presidential Election
By Zeynep Önal Aytaç
Abstract:
Turkey has experienced one of the most important elections on the 100th anniversary of the republic. Under rising competitive authoritarianism, democratic backsliding and economic crisis, the main opposition block united its powers against Erdogan for this existential election. On the other side, Erdogan and his ultra-Islamist, nationalists partners have employed populist right rhetoric and benefitted from state sources which they have enjoyed for the last 20 years. However, the presidential race could not be finished in the first round. Neither Erdogan nor his main rival Kilicdaroglu reached half of the votes, so Turkish people will go to the ballot box one more time and make their final choice on May 28.
Kuwait's Invasion: The United Nations Authorization for the Use of Force
By Clara Vecino Prieto
Abstract:
On 2 August 1990, Saddam Hussein's Iraq invaded Kuwait. The international response to the Iraqi invasion marked a turning point in the UN Security Council's authorisation of the use of force. The international community jointly condemned the invasion. As a result, the UN demanded the immediate withdrawal of Iraqi forces from Kuwait. In the absence of a response, the Security Council passed two resolutions, 678 and 687, which would mark a new era in the authorisation of the legitimate use of force. Therefore, throughout this article, we will first look at the causes that led Iraq to invade Kuwait, followed by an explanation of the UN Security Council's action, and finally, analyze that action to understand the extent to which the Security Council changed the way it acted in terms of collective security.
The Central African Republic: How Peacekeeping Has Failed But Peacebuilding Is Still Needed
By Maia BrenerAbstract: The Central African Republic is a member of the United Nations, the African Union, and the Economic Community of Central African States. The country has been in a state of civil war since 2013 when a coalition of rebel groups known as the Seleka overthrew the government. The conflict in the Central African Republic has had devastating effects on the country’s population. Hundreds of thousands of people have been displaced, and the country’s economy has been severely harmed. As, the conflict has led to a deterioration in the rule of law, with widespread human rights abuses being committed by all sides that are involved in the conflict. |
The Unspoken Apartheid: How the Chinese Government is Conducting an Ethnic Cleansing of the Uighurs |
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Goulash CosmopolitanismVictor Orban’s ‘Hungary for Hungarians’ Migration PolicyBy Sebastian BerchesanAbstract: Following the return to power of Viktor Orban in 2010, Hungarian politics has taken a nationalist turn that led to the current illiberal path the country is following. The European-wide migration crisis of 2015 has shifted the Hungarian public’s attention towards immigrants, presenting them as a serious threat to the internal stability and the traditional values of the country. Since then, the rhetoric of the Orban-led government focused on two main directions: keeping non-European migrants out of the country and strengthening the relations with the ethnic Hungarians living abroad. While closing the doors to migrants who could represent a substantial and reliable workforce, the nation’s economy shows worrying signs of recession. In this context, Prime Minister Viktor Orban is calling for the Hungarians born and living outside of the state borders to join the nation’s political cause by enabling them to easily get citizenship and vote during elections. While taking on this double approach, the Hungarian leader aims to maximise his political support while delivering a simple but essential promise: a Hungary for Hungarians. This article analyses the premises of the strategy behind the Hungarian Migration Policy while questioning its sustainability in the long run.
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