The EU's eight flagship projects of common interest to boost defence
The EU is poised to launch a series of ambitious defence initiatives under the European Defence Industry Programme (EDIP) to bolster its military capabilities over the next decade.The European Commission has identified eight flagship projects spanning land, air, maritime, space, and cyber defence, which could be supported by a €500 billion budget. These projects aim to enhance EU-wide security and foster greater cooperation between member states, though crucial details regarding funding and execution are still under negotiation.To look into the specifics of this story host Evi Kiorri spoke with defence editor, Aurélie Pugnet.
22 Loka 202413min
EU ventures to regulate e-commerce's breakneck growth
The European Union is stepping up its oversight of major online platforms (VLOPs) on multiple fronts. Today Parliament debates reforms to the customs code to protect consumer rights in the digital space, while the European Commission demands answers from Chinese e-commerce giant TEMU. The company is expected to respond to the Commission's concerns regarding consumer protection. Since its launch in July 2022, TEMU has rapidly established itself as a leading player in the EU e-commerce market, now boasting 75 million active monthly users. Advocacy groups have raised alarms about potential risks to shoppers' health and privacy, citing issues with toxic materials in inexpensive products and allegations of unauthorized data sales. The customs’ code reform, now in the works at the EU Parliament, could better protect online shoppers, but implementation is likely to take more than a decade. Join host Giada Santana and tech editor Eliza Gritski as they discuss Eu regulators’ efforts to keep pace with the fast-evolving online landscape.
21 Loka 202416min
Security and unity challenges awaiting EU's first defence commissioner
The EU will have its first-ever Defence Commissioner, Andris Kubilius, and his agenda is anything but straightforward. He has to unite member states on defence policy amid rising global threats and create a 'true single market for defence' in the EU.In an interview with Euractiv’s Aurélie Pugnet, Kubilius expressed determination to make this work by focusing on joint defence strategies, increased funding, and streamlining production. As defence has traditionally been a national competency, what is his plan for the future of EU defence? And why is the EU appointing a defence and space commissioner for the first time?To break down these questions host Evi Kiorri is joined by our Defence Editor, Aurélie Pugnet.
18 Loka 202418min
Migration concerns take centre stage at European Council summit
EU migration policy will be at the forefront of the European Council summit today (17 October) as tougher measures against irregular immigration have gained momentum. But common goals do not equal common means – member states across the Union are clashing over what direction EU migration policy should take. From 'return hubs' to asylum seekers' rights and third-country bilateral agreements, member states' divergent proposals are likely to complicate efforts in achieving the unanimous consensus necessary to pass any procedure at EUCO.Join host Giada Santana and senior editor Sarantis Michalopoulos as they dive into the policies that could redefine the future of EU migration.
17 Loka 202414min
Has the EU underestimated its relationship with Gulf countries?
EU and Gulf leaders are meeting on Wednesday (16 October) in Brussels in a first-ever summit between the two regions. Co-chaired by outgoing European Council President Charles Michel and Qatar’s Emir H.H. Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the meeting follows the launch of a strategic partnership in 2022.But mutual concerns remain. The EU sees the Gulf as a key energy partner in reducing its dependence on Russian energy. Yet, the Gulf's ties with Moscow make this partnership challenging. For their part, Gulf countries are concerned about the EU's inconsistent stance on Gaza as the conflict expands. Can both sides overcome these issues to deepen their diplomatic and energy partnership?To answer this question, host Evi Kiorri spoke with Camille Lons, policy fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations and Cinzia Bianco, visiting fellow at the same think tank.
16 Loka 202417min
Albania-EU membership talks to kick off with corruption, checks and balances
High levels of corruption and limited media freedom are among the issues at the forefront of Albania's EU accession negotiations, which begin today (15 October), 16 years after the country first applied to join the bloc.EU membership negotiations for both Albania and North Macedonia were initially scheduled for July 2022, but no negotiation chapters have been opened since then. At the end of September, however, EU member states unanimously decided to separate the bids and formally open EU membership talks with Albania.The talks will focus on five key issues, including the judiciary, financial control, and procurement, as Albania struggles with high levels of corruption, slow judicial processes, and limited media freedom.Will Albania's notable efforts in recent years, such as the adoption of several anti-corruption measures, be enough to reassure the EU's member states? Join host Giada Santana and senior editor Alice Taylor in this episode as they unpack the EU's enlargement strategy, Albania's evolving role in migration policy, and the implications of the country's membership bid for the rest of the Balkans.
15 Loka 202417min
EU foreign ministers to address Ukraine and Middle East crises amid escalation
EU foreign ministers are meeting in Luxembourg today (14 October) to discuss urgent matters, including Russia’s ongoing aggression against Ukraine and the volatile situation in the Middle East, following recent escalation in Lebanon and northern Israel. With a summit postponed last week between Western leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, there is speculation about whether Ukraine’s victory plan will be presented in today’s discussions.The Foreign Affairs Council will also evaluate potential EU responses to the conflict in Gaza and the Middle East, with a particular focus on concerns about regional spillover, especially after Lebanon being hit and Iran's involvement.To look into these pressing issues, host Evi Kiorri is joined by Dr Spyros Economides, Associate Professor in International Relations and European Politics at the European Institute and James Moran, Associate Senior Research Fellow at the Centre for European Policy Studies.
14 Loka 202418min
The future of the EU budget behind the leak
The long-term EU budget, known as the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), may soon see structural reforms. A leaked document from this week hints at the merger of various funds, the introduction of conditionality measures, and a shift toward a more centralised approach, among other things. In this episode, join host Giada Santana and economy and transport reporter Jonathan Packroff as they dive into MFF’s current challenges, regional stakeholders' perspectives, and what the future might hold.
11 Loka 202414min
