It’s Not the Economy, Stupid!
Fear of losing power and status created the alliances that voted for Brexit, European populism and Donald Trump.
Western Europe
Irish, Northern Irish Leaders Make Contradictory Brexit Demands
Ireland is determined to avoid a hard border, but unionists in Northern Ireland rule out staying in the EU customs union.
Another Grand Coalition Dilemma for Germany’s Social Democrats
The party could achieve a lot in another left-right government, but they risk being punished by voters.
English-Language Media Hype Collapse of German Coalition Talks
American and British reporters immediately reach for comparisons with Brexit and Trump.
Don’t Panic: Merkel Still Has Options
The collapse of three-party talks is a setback, not the end of the world.
German Coalition Talks Collapse as Free Democrats Walk Out
Christian Lindner argues it is better not to govern than to govern in the wrong way.
Brexit’s Broken Promises
Leaving the EU is not unleashing growth. There is no extra money for health care.
Progress in German Coalition Talks, But Four Sticking Points
The parties still disagree about coal power, Europe and immigration.
Pressure Builds on May As Brexit Hardliners Close Ranks
More and more Conservatives want Theresa May gone.
British Reject Plan to Keep Northern Ireland in Customs Union, Single Market
The Irish argue for integration, but hardliners in London can’t abide an “all-island” approach.
Conservatives Pay Price for Putting Party Before Country
Conservatives have allowed the need for intraparty unity to prevail over the nationalist interest.
German Free Democrats, Greens Drop Red Lines
The liberals accept smaller tax cuts. The Greens soften their climate goals.
Belgians Criticize Persecution of Catalan Leaders
Belgians from across the political spectrum wonder if Spain has no alternative to locking up its separatists.
Posted-Workers Reform a Largely Symbolic Victory for Macron
The changes affect few workers, but the French leader believes they have symbolic value.
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.