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The world from Amsterdam, by Nick Ottens

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Explainer

Why Spain’s Podemos Now Supports Catalan Referendum

Hint: It’s not because the far-left movement is suddenly in favor of Catalan independence.

Nick OttensNick OttensMay 28, 2017November 29, 2021
Mark Rutte

Dutch Parties Need a Little Theater Before Forming Government

Politicians enter into talks they know will probably fail.

Nick OttensNick OttensMay 21, 2017November 11, 2021
French parliament Paris

French System Encourages Temporary, Not Permanent, Polarization

France’s two-round system allows third parties to thrive without playing spoiler.

Steve KellerSteve KellerMay 7, 2017June 20, 2022

What the Hell Just Happened to Turkey?

Recep Tayyip Erdoğan wanted an executive Turkey, headed by him. He got it. Here is how.

Ryan BohlRyan BohlApril 22, 2017November 27, 2021
Vladimir Putin

Why Russian Resets Keep Failing

Geopolitical rivalries do not end because of handshakes or smiling photo ops.

Ryan BohlRyan BohlApril 14, 2017November 21, 2021
Marine Le Pen

Programs of the French Presidential Candidates, Compared

Left-right divisions have become less relevant.

Nick OttensNick OttensApril 13, 2017April 4, 2022
Angela Merkel Donald Trump

What’s Wrong with Trump’s NATO Bill to Germany

The American president mistakes NATO’s 2-percent spending goal for loyalty.

Nick OttensNick OttensMarch 27, 2017November 12, 2021
Paris France

The Forces Shaping the French Election: Populism, Pride and Prejudice

Marine Le Pen’s appeal has deep, historical roots in the country that invented the European state.

Ryan BohlRyan BohlMarch 23, 2017November 11, 2021
The Hague Netherlands

What Happens Next in the Netherlands?

Expect months of talks to form a government. For only the second time, the king will not be involved.

Nick OttensNick OttensMarch 15, 2017December 1, 2021
Scotland flag

Scotland Calls for Second Referendum: Why and Why Now?

Scottish independence is not about the economy.

Nick OttensNick OttensMarch 13, 2017January 13, 2022
European Parliament Strasbourg

EU Sees Five Possible Futures. Which Is Best and Which Is Likely?

The European Commission’s scenarios range from muddling through to something resembling a federal Europe.

Nick OttensNick OttensMarch 2, 2017November 26, 2021
Toronto Canada

Why Ontario Plays Such a Central Role in Canadian Politics

The province is not only Canada’s most populous; it has an ability to swing elections between Quebec and the west.

Joseph ShupacJoseph ShupacFebruary 28, 2017October 25, 2021
Greece flag

The Latest Greek Drama, Explained

Haven’t paid attention to Greece lately? Here is everything you need to know.

Nick OttensNick OttensFebruary 17, 2017November 25, 2021
Netherlands flag

Dutch Election Guide

The Dutch electoral system, the parties, their leaders and the most important issues.

Nick OttensNick OttensJanuary 17, 2017November 5, 2021
London England

Rural Areas and Small Towns Feel Left Behind as Cities Grow

Globalization benefits big cities. Rural areas and small towns feel left behind, even if they’re not necessarily poor.

Nick OttensNick OttensJanuary 12, 2017November 25, 2021

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