Europe in Brief
By Alka Bala and Rosemary Kurian

ESTONIA
State budget deficit reaches three per cent of GDP
On 09 January, ERR News reported on increase in the state budget deficit in December 2023 to three per cent of the GDP which is an unexpected rise. The spokesperson of the Ministry of Finance noted that the deficit had reached 1.5 per cent as of October, followed by 2 percent in November. Due to alcohol excise duties due for implementation from 01 January 2024, the country saw excessive stockpiling in the last couple of months of 2023. Due to late-year forecasts and budgetary additions in the last month, the deficit stood at an unpredicted rate. (“Estonia's 2023 state budget deficit estimated at 3 percent of GDP”, ERR News, 09 January, 2024)
 
FRANCE
Gabriel Attal appointed as France's new Prime Minister 
On 09 January, Deutsche Welle reported that Emmanuel Macron, the French President, appointed Gabriel Attal as his new Prime Minister, after the resignation of former Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne was announced. Attal became the youngest Prime Minister in French history at age 34, also setting new standards as the country’s first openly gay head of government. Attal’s popularity rose, based on opinion polls, when he gained attention as the government’s spokesperson during the coronavirus pandemic. Last year, Attal was appointed as the Education Minister under which capacity he banned the use of the abaya, a Muslim dress, in state schools, which was lauded by conservatives that enabled him to be on their favourable opinion, despite being a liberal himself. 
  
Attal’s political career is known to be incredibly rapid and unstoppable, like his leader Macron’s. He became the secretary of state at the education ministry at age 29, making him the youngest member of the modern French Republic. His later posts include head of LREM, government spokesperson, public accounts minister, followed by education minister. Under his new capacity as Prime Minister, a cabinet reshuffle is expected in the LREM’s favour against the rapid rise of the far right leader Marine Le Pen ahead of the European Parliament’s elections. After several controversies 2023 over unfavourable pension laws, controversial immigration legislation as well as a loss of overall majority in parliamentary elections, Macron wishes to create an enhanced image of the government before his term ends and ahead of the Olympics and Paralympics hosted in Paris 2024.

Originally a supporter of the Socialist Party given his left-wing background, Attal joined Macron’s centrist political party ‘En Marche’ (currently La République En Marche) during its foundation in 2016, and has been identified as a close ally of the President. He is known to have had a privileged background as the son of a Tunisian Jewish lawyer and film producer in France. He was educated in the high profile private school ‘École Alsacienne,’ followed by a Master’s in Public Affairs at the prestigious Sciences Po. His youth was distinguished due to his communication skills and passionate approach to public speaking about any issue. His skills with the public in tackling his challenges verbally earned him the nickname ‘Word Sniper,’ (“Macron names Gabriel Attal as France's new prime minister”, Deutsche Welle, 09 January, 2024; Kim Willsher, “Who is Gabriel Attal, the French PM who climbed the ranks in record time?, The Guardian, 09 January, 2024)

Borne resigns amid political tensions
On 08 January, Deutsche Welle reported on the resignation of Elisabeth Borne, the French Prime Minister, amid an expected cabinet reshuffle by Emmanuel Macron, the French President. Borne stated the immediate need to push necessary reforms as the cause of her resignation. Tensions arose in the French government after the introduction of contentious immigration laws in the French National Assembly, which would allow the government to deport some foreign nationals. She has also faced criticism for pushing unpopular pension reforms past the National Assembly. In the French presidential system, the responsibility of daily administration falls on the Prime Minister. Macron appointed Gabriel Attal as the new Prime Minister, the youngest to take office and the first openly gay one. (“French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne resigns”, Deutsche Welle, 08 January, 2024)
 
GERMANY 
German Farmers block roads protesting subsidy cuts
On 08 January, BBC reported on farmer protests in Baden-Württemberg, North Rhine-Westphalia, Saxony and Bavaria calling to scrap all plans for cutting subsidies. The cut was imposed in response to a budgetary crisis. Olaf Scholz's government in Berlin faces a challenging start to the year amid predictions of sluggish economic growth for Germany. The arrival of tractors in central Berlin, accompanies concerns over political radicalization, drew widespread condemnation. In response to the protests Nancy Faeser, Germany’s Interior Minister  warned over consequences of “anger disagreement” due to stopping people from going for work. Despite government’s efforts to reduce the farmer’s anger by reversing its plan to abolish “preferential treatment in vehicle tax,” the protests seem to continue. (Jessica Parker, “German farmers blockade Berlin with tractors in subsidy row,” BBC, 08 January 2024)
 
LATVIA
NATO airspace policing duties to be hosted in Latvian air space
On 09 January, LSM reported on takeover of Latvia of the Baltic airspace policing mission under NATO as Estonia’s Air Force Base Ämari is under repair. NATO patrols have been performed in the region since the Baltic states joined in 2004, first in Šiauliai airbase in Lithuania and then including Estonia’s Ämari on a rotational basis. German armed forces will arrive in Latvia for test flights following which the National Armed Forces Aviation Base in Lielvārde will take over from 01 March. NATO presence has increased in the Baltic due to the threats associated with the Russia-Ukraine war. (“Latvia gradually takes over Baltic air police hosting duties,” LSM, 09 January, 2024)
 
NORWAY
Government passes controversial bill allowing deep sea mining
On 09 January, the BBC reported on the Norwegian government’s decision to allow deep sea diving, which could lead to catastrophic outcomes for marine life. By doing so, Norway became the first country enabling the action in order to extract minerals including lithium, scandium and cobalt– key to green technologies. The government stated that it would proceed cautiously especially while issuing licences, and assured that mining activities would assume only after further studies and exploration with the aid of private players, who can now bid for around 280,000 square kilometeres of national waters. The government has specified that opening up didn’t imply mining. Marine biologists have expressed their concern on the detrimental effects on marine life. The UN-based International Seabed Authority (ISA) is set to finalise rules on deep sea mining in 2024. (Esme Stallard, “Deep-sea mining: Norway approves controversial practice,” BBC, 09 January, 2024)
 
POLAND 
Ex-ministers arrested over abuse of power
On 10 January, Deutsche Welle reported on the arrest of two former ministers belonging to the Law and Justice Party (PiS), convicted of abuse of power. The ministers allegedly took refuge in the Presidential Palace with the support of Andrzej Duda, the Polish President belonging to the PiS. Donald Tusk, the Polish Prime Minister, earlier accused Duda for protecting the ministers and obstructing justice. The Presidential pardon that was granted to them in 2015 by Duda was overturned by Poland’s Supreme Court. Supporters of the PiS have, however, condemned the arrest. (“Polish police arrest ex-ministers at presidential palace,” Deutsche Welle, 10 January, 2024)
 
SWEDEN
NATO armed troops from Sweden to be sent to Latvia in 202
On 08 January, LSM reported on the addition of Swedish troops into a Canada-led NATO’s enhanced forward presence battle group based in Latvia. Sweden is set to become the 32nd member of NATO once Hungary and Turkey agree to its membership. Sweden is set to send a battalion of 800 soldiers with armoured vehicles, combat cars and potentially ‘Leopard’ tanks to Latvia in 2025 in order to ensure NATO’s presence in the region. (“Sweden to send NATO troops to Latvia in 2025,” LSM, 09 January, 2024)
 
SWITZERLAND
Swiss Food Bank rescues 6,500 tons worth of “waste” food
On 08 January, the Swiss Food Bank reported on a 400-ton increase in surplus food products rescued in 2023 compared to 2022, with 25 tonnes of food being saved daily, reducing waste and producing 18.6 million meals for people in need. The expansion was credited to more retail stores in central and northern Switzerland, an improved partnership with Migros Aare. The foundation Migros Aare observed that there was a rise in poverty due to “violence, natural disasters, and electricity shortage” resulting in increased demand for food. Helping thousands through the efforts, the Swiss Food Bank redistributes leftover goods from large Swiss distributors to approximately 500 social institutions, such as soup kitchens and homeless shelters. (“Thousands of tons of Swiss ‘waste’ alleviates poverty,” swissinfo, 08 January 2024)
 
THE NETHERLANDS
Three-fold rise reported in asylum-seeking minors
On 09 January, NL Times reported on the surge in unaccompanied child asylum applications in the Netherlands from 2,191 in 2021 to about 6,000 in 2023. Immigration and Nationalisation Service (IND) authorities expressed concern over a trend where families send children first, exploiting perceived advantages in family reunification procedures. Ruben Brekelmans, the Netherlands People's Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD) parliamentarian emphasised stricter Dutch policies, border controls, and detentions and cited sustainability and fairness concerns. While the European asylum rules detains the adult asylum seekers to make assessment, this is impermissible in case of Children. The Rutte IV Cabinet in an attempt to tighten family reunification rules nationally, failed. This leaves the task to the incoming government. (“Sharp increase in unaccompanied children applying for asylum in the Netherlands”, NL Times, 09 January 2024)
 
THE UK
Dilemmas ahead for Sunak as he gets ready for 2024 elections
On 08 January, in an opinion published in Politico highlights the seven ‘tripwires’ ahead of the 2024 elections. The challenges are regarding the timing of the call for polls, where a vote in the latter half of 2024, would allow for the economy to produce good results. Rishi Sunak, UK’s Prime Minister faces electoral challenges with by-elections in Wellingborough and Kingswood, risking a Tory majority amid concerns of a potential wipeout in the upcoming general election. Potential leadership contenders, including Suella Braverman and Robert Jenrick, dissatisfied with Sunak's performance, may pose challenges for Sunak amid concerns about electoral setbacks and internal divisions within the Conservative Party. Sunak's plan to permanently deport asylum seekers to Rwanda faces legal and legislative challenges, creating internal divisions within the Conservative Party. Amid immigration and inflation concerns, Rishi Sunak faces challenges fulfilling his National Health Service waiting time reduction pledge, compounded by a junior doctors' walkout and ongoing public service strikes, including London's underground network. In anticipation of the upcoming budget, Jeremy Hunt, UK’s Chancellor contemplates tax cuts, including the possible elimination of inheritance tax, stirring debates within the Conservative Party. Ultimately, in the face of an 18-point polling gap, Rishi Sunak's ultimate test lies in the upcoming general election in 2024 against Labour Party's Keir Starmer. (Andrew McDonald, “7 tripwires for Rishi Sunak as 2024 fires up”, Politico, 08 January 2024)

REGIONAL
European liberals reject alliance with nationalists post EU-elections
On 09 January, Politico reported on Stéphane Séjourné, leader of the European Parliament’s liberals, rejection to collaborate with the nationalists if the June elections yielded a right-wing majority. He stressed the need to control European destiny, wary of far-right claims of chaos. Séjourné highlighted EU achievements in managing COVID-19 vaccine procurement, regulating social media, and establishing a unified migration system. While polls foresee a slim majority for the current coalition, Séjourné warned of an "ungovernable Europe" as right-wing factions gain momentum. He pledged not to align with the far-right or nationalist European Conservatives and Reformists group (ECR), potentially impacting future parliamentary coalitions and progressive policymaking. ( Eddy Wax, “EU liberal leader rules out right-wing alliance post-EU election”, Politico, 09 January 2024)

Commissioner Breton proposed EU defense fund plan
On January 09, Politico reported Thierry Breton, the EU Internal Market Commissioner, vouched for a EUR 100 billion defense fund for the EU. This was aimed to boost joint weapons procurement, to enhance the EU's war preparedness. Presentation to the European Defence Investment Program (EDIP) is scheduled to take place on 27 February and he emphasised on domestic arms production. Breton, overseeing defense, envisions reaching the goal of one million artillery shells for Ukraine by spring. He asserts that the EU can match Russia's weapon production in 18-24 months, and insisted on considering it "extremely important" for the EU to have equivalent capabilities. ( Eddy Wax and Laura Kayali, “Breton aims for ‘huge’ €100B defense fund,” Politico, 09 January 2024)

Commission divided over full trade liberalisation with Ukraine
On 05 January, Politico reported on European Commission plan to propose the extension of temporary measures. It recommends the EU continue to waive import duties on Ukrainian goods until June 2025. Janusz Wojciechowski, EU Commissioner for Agriculture warns that measures may lead to a situation similar to the uncontrolled influx of agricultural products in 2022. This has impacted the eastern European countries (EU member states) with challenges faced by Poland’s agribusiness industries due to grain influx from Ukraine. He emphasised how duty-free imports undercut the domestic industries and such measures will result in adding Russia to drive Kyiv’s exports from African and Asian markets. However, the final decision will be taken by Ursula von der Leyen, European Commission President and Valdis Dombrovskis, Trade Commissioner who support full liberalisation. (Bartozs Brzeziński, “Von der Leyen’s team split over free trade with Ukraine,” Politico, 05 January 2024) 
 
European Commission recommends stricter rules for well-being of pets
On 09 January, ERR News reported on the European Commission’s decision to introduce stricter laws governing the safety of dogs and cats, as 74 per cent of EU residents demand that they be better protected. Suggestions are made to include rules based on premises, feeding, socialising and healthcare. Breeding that might negatively impact the offspring and inbreeding is proposed to be prohibited, as is illegal trade of dogs and cats through stricter transportation rules. Dogs over the age of eight and cats over six must be bred only with the prior permission of the veterinarian, and all cat and dog breeders require licences. The suggested regulations are uniform within the EU, but states are at the liberty to impose tougher restrictions. Punishments are to be decided by individual member states and data be provided to the EU every three years. (“European Commission looking to introduce tougher rules for handling of pets”, ERR News, 09 January, 2024)
 
INTERNATIONAL
2023 sets record for highest global temperatures
On 09 January, Copernicus Climate Change Service confirms 2023 as the warmest year since 1880, surpassing the 2016 peak and posing a threat to the Paris Agreement's 1.5 degrees Celsius target.  The urgency for global leaders to adopt policies combating climate change, however, seems to be lagging as the 2023 elections in the Netherlands and Argentina saw right-wing populists opposing aggressive climate action, while the possibility of former President Trump's return raises concerns about the future of U.S. climate policies. The imminent risk of irreversible tipping points, such as the west Antarctic ice sheet collapse, underscores the urgency for proactive measures given the unpredictable and long-lasting impacts of climate change. Alex Ruane NASA's Goddard Institute for Space Studies climate impacts director said: “The climate system doesn’t care about politics.” (Zack Coleman, “It’s a scary time’ as world shatters temperature record,” Politico, 09 January 2024)