Puigdemont Has Five Options to Respond to Threat of Spanish Rule
The Catalan leader will probably urge resistance to Spanish rule or declare independence.
Europe
Suspension of Catalan Home Rule Divides Spain’s Socialists
Party members in the region criticize the national leadership for supporting Mariano Rajoy.
Similarities and Differences Between Catalan, Italian Referendums
The biggest difference: former separatists in northern Italy no longer call for independence.
Globalization Boosts Some Regions, Marginalizes Others
Growth and opportunity are clustered in major cities.
Without Brexit Deal, United Kingdom Would Be Thrown into Chaos
Brexiteers who believe leaving the EU without a deal would not be the end of the world should think again.
Merkel’s Answer to Populist Challenge: Shift to the Left
Germany’s conservative party leader calls for a focus on pay, pensions and housing.
Spain to Suspend Catalan Home Rule After Independence Vote
The unprecedented step follows an independence referendum in the region Spain considered illegal.
Theresa May Repeats Alexis Tsipras’ Mistake
The British prime minister is trying to go over the bureaucrats’ heads.
Italian Right Makes Pact for Prime Ministership
Leaders agree that whoever wins the most votes will become prime minister of a coalition government.
Other Conservatives Should Be Wary of Imitating Kurz
Most don’t have the Austrian’s luxury of being able to tack to the right without losing support in the center.
Italian Voting Reforms Could Have Little Impact on Balance Between Parties
The left, right and populist Five Star Movement would remain roughly equal in size.
Trump Drives European Allies into Arms of China and Russia
All oppose the American’s efforts to sabotage the Iran nuclear deal.
Italian Lawmakers Back Electoral Reforms Which Hurt Populists
The new voting system could make it harder for the populist Five Star Movement to come to power.
Catalan Leader Steps Back from Brink, Satisfies No One
Separatists are disappointed Carles Puigdemont didn’t declare independence. Madrid remains on guard.
Highlights from Dutch Parties’ Coalition Agreement
The four parties plan to raise defense spending, cut taxes and relax labor laws.