Photo : European Space Agency
11 October 2023, Wednesday | NIAS Europe Daily Brief #643
EM In Brief
By Rishika Yadav
AUSTRIA
Federal Minister addresses Internet Governance Forum
On 10 October, Federal Minister Karoline Edtstadler attended the 18th Internet Governance Forum meeting in Kyoto, Japan. It aims to establish global regulations for internet security and rights. The focus of the meeting was on addressing online hate, AI, cybersecurity, and global internet access. Edtstadler emphasized the need for the enforcement of human rights in the digital space and called for common international understanding to combat online hate. She also highlighted the importance of women globally working together to push for effective regulations on major internet platforms. Edtstadler was appointed to a leadership panel by Antonio Guterres, UN Secretary General. (“Federal Minister Edtstadler: Human rights that apply offline must also be enforceable online,” Bundeskanzlerant, 10 October 2023)
FINLAND
Balticconnector gas pipeline leak: Cause under investigation
On 10 October, an external cause was suspected in the leak of the Balticconnector gas pipeline between Finland and Estonia. While the exact reason is yet to be determined, President Sauli Niinistö indicated that it could be due to external activity. The National Bureau of Investigation is leading the inquiry with support from various authorities. Estonia’s navy has been dispatched to the location of the leak. Both Finland and Estonia have alternative gas supplies, so the incident is not expected to affect energy security. Repair work may take several months. It is notable as concerns arise over critical infrastructure security. (“Location of leak in Balticconnector gas pipeline identified in Finland’s economic zone,” Finnish Government, 10 October 2023; Victor Jack, “Finnish pipeline leak points to ‘external activity,’ president says,” Politico, 10 October 2023; “Baltic gas pipeline leak 'likely caused by external activity' says Finland's president,” Euronews, 10 October 2023)
POLAND
Top military officers resign ahead of election
On 10 October, Chief of General Staff, Gen Rajmund Andrzejczak, and Operational Commander Gen Tomasz Piotrowski resigned just before a crucial election. While they gave no official reasons for their resignations, reports suggest concerns about the government’s attempts to politicize the military played a role. This comes amid accusations of the government’s politicization of the judiciary and curbing media freedoms. The right-wing government, seeking a third term in office, denies these allegations. The election is seen as a significant moment in Poland’s political landscape, with a narrower gap between the right and centre parties. Relations with Ukraine have also been strained due to a ban on Ukraine’s grain imports. (Jaroslav Lukiv, “Poland's top army generals quit ahead of key elections,” BBC, 10 October 2023)
SLOVAKIA
Post-election coalition shifts toward left
On 10 October, Politico reported that following the recent election on 30 September, a new ruling coalition is emerging. It is causing concern within Ukraine and among EU supporters. Peter Pellegrini, leader of the social democratic Hlas party, which secured third place in the election, announced that Hlas will exclusively negotiate with the leftist-populist Smer party. The Smer party is led by former PM Robert Fico, and the nationalist Slovenska narodna strana (Slovak National Party, SNS). These three parties together hold 79 seats in the 150-seat parliament. Their alignment is shifting towards a more red-brown coalition, raising questions about their stance on Ukraine and EU solidarity. (Tom Nicholson, “Slovakia’s kingmaker party only wants coalition with populist Fico,” Politico, 10 October 2023)
THE UK
Attorneys General from British Overseas Territories meets to strengthen cooperation
On 10 October, Attorneys General from British Overseas Territories, Crown Dependencies, and UK officials convened in Montserrat. It was for the 2023 Overseas Territories Attorneys General Conference, marking the first in-person gathering since the pandemic. Discussions included constitutional processes, same-sex partnerships, safeguarding, maritime issues, criminal justice, and law enforcement. The delegates welcomed the vital role of Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies in implementing UK sanctions. The conference reinforced commitment to upholding the rule of law and cooperation on various priority issues. (“Overseas Territories Attorneys General Conference: September 2023,” Gov.uk, 10 October 2023)
Dogger Bank wind farm powers up, sets records
On 10 October, Euronews reported that the Dogger Bank wind farm, the world's largest offshore wind project, is now connected to the UK national grid. It marks a significant milestone in renewable energy. Located in the North Sea, it recently installed its first of 277 turbines, each with 107-metre-long blades capable of powering a home for two days with a single rotation. At full capacity, it will supply five per cent of the UK’s electricity, boasting a record 3.6 gigawatt capacity. The wind farm, spanning an area similar to Greater London, will contribute to the reduction of 1.5 million cars’ worth of CO2 emissions annually and operate for 35 years. (Angela Symons, “‘Exactly how we should be responding to the energy crisis’: UK mega wind farm produces first power,” Euronews, 10 October 2023)
REGIONAL
EU faces confusion over Palestine’s aid suspension
On 10 October, the European Commission grappled with confusion over the suspension of aid to Palestine’s territories following the Israel-Hamas conflict. Oliver Varhelyi, EU Commissioner for Neighbourhood and Enlargement, announced a suspension of “all payments” and “new budget proposals” on social media. It prompted backlash from some EU member states. Janez Lenarčič, EU Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management, later clarified that humanitarian aid would continue, revealing internal disagreements. The Commission eventually issued an official press release, explaining that an “urgent review” would ensure EU funding does not indirectly support terrorist organizations. The review would not impact the EUR 27.9 million allocated for humanitarian aid in 2023. (Jorge Liboreiro, “Commissioner Várhelyi went solo with suspension of EU funds for Palestinians, prompting U-turn,” Euronews, 10 October 2023)
INTERNATIONAL
27th GCC-EU Joint Council and ministerial meeting held in Muscat
On 10 October, the 27th GCC-EU Joint Council met in Muscat, Oman, emphasizing their strategic partnership in addressing global challenges. GCC delegates were led by H.E. Sayyid Badr Albusaidi, Oman’s Foreign Minister, and EU representatives was headed by Josep Borrell, High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy. They noted the importance of this partnership given the threats to peace, security, and the global economy. They reviewed the Joint Action Programme (2022-2027), expanding cooperation in various fields. Both sides agreed to create a regional security dialogue and working groups to address common issues. They also expressed concern over Ukraine and the situation in Israel and Gaza. The GCC-EU partnership aims for sustainability, peace, and stability in the region. (“Co-Chairs’ Statement of the 27th GCC-EU Joint Council and Ministerial Meeting,” European Council, 10 October 2023)