Catalan Socialists Learn from Their Mistakes
Two years ago, Salvador Illa let his ego get in the way of a deal.
Southern Europe
Italy Narrows Right to Asylum After Boat Arrivals Quadruple
Giorgia Meloni also raises prison sentences for human traffickers.
Spain’s Rental Reforms, Explained
Rent increases are capped through 2025. The government will subsidize more low-rent housing.
Italy’s Synthetic Food Ban Is Victory for Meat Lobbyists
Slaughters and farm lobbyists insist cultivated meat is “unnatural”. What it is, is competition.
Meloni’s Asylum Plan Gains Support
The EU would pay non-member states to shelter asylum seekers.
Italian Left Doubles Down on Failed Identity Politics
Democrats lost the election campaigning for social justice, so they push more of it.
Spanish Constitutional Crisis Ends with Whimper
Conservatives accept three progressive judges in order to avoid changing the nominating rules.
Spanish Judges Block Senate Debate to Replace Them
Conservatives go out of their way to avoid a progressive court.
Italy Shows Goodwill to EU with Last-Minute Tax Changes
The right-wing government needs the EU to sign off on COVID-19 recovery funds.
Sánchez Cleans Up Mess Conservatives Made in Catalonia
The right used an antiquated sedition law to persecute Catalan separatists.
Giorgia Meloni Sets Out Her Program
Vague climate rhetoric. Sensible proposals for immigration. Firm commitments to the EU.
Separatist Hardliners to Quit Catalan Government
The Spanish prime minister has exhausted their patience.
Meloni’s Plan for Asylum Seekers Makes Sense
Don’t let migrants cross the Mediterranean in boats. Process asylum applications abroad.
How the Left Lost the Italian Election
Enrico Letta fought on Giorgia Meloni’s terms.
Right-Wing Parties Win Italian Election. Turnout Lowest in 100 Years
Giorgia Meloni would become Italy’s first woman prime minister.