The political landscape is constantly shifting, with new developments emerging daily. This week brings a mix of news from across Europe, ranging from controversial aid cuts in the UK to cabinet changes in Slovakia and updates on the upcoming German elections.
UK Overseas Aid Faces Historic Cuts
Sir Keir Starmer is set to implement the largest cut to UK overseas aid in history, reducing it to its lowest level as a percentage of national income since records began. This decision, criticized by NGOs, is seen as a move to prioritize defence spending over international development. NGOs accuse the Prime Minister of following the US by accepting the ‘false choice’ of cutting aid to fund defence.
The move represents a significant reversal of Labour manifesto pledges and its historical commitment to assisting the world's poorest, according to Ian Mitchell, co-director of the Centre for Global Development. Even if Starmer manages to halve the current £4.5 billion cost of housing asylum seekers, the aid cuts will still be substantial.
Slovakian Politics: Protests and Cabinet Reshuffle
In Slovakia, Prime Minister Robert Fico recently proposed a cabinet reshuffle to President Peter Pellegrini, including the nomination of Rudolf Huliak as Minister of Sport. Fico stated that his proposal includes a declaration of support for the government and its program manifesto, signed by four independent members of the National Council of the Slovak Republic.
Meanwhile, NGOs in Slovakia are preparing to present proposed constitutional changes to the Prime Minister. Simultaneously, farmers are staging protests, with a route passing through Radošovce, Popudinské Močidľany, and Holíč, culminating at a border crossing. The protests highlight ongoing tensions and demands for policy changes within the country.
German Bundestag Election 2025: Live Updates
The live ticker for the 2025 Bundestag election provides ongoing updates on key political figures and events. Recent highlights include Robert Habeck accepting his mandate in the Bundestag.
Additionally, Friedrich Merz met with Emmanuel Macron in Paris, the Greens confirmed their parliamentary board in office, and the AfD praised the Union's initiative to review NGOs. The live blog format allows for real-time tracking of the evolving political landscape in Germany.
These developments across Europe underscore the dynamic nature of politics and the various challenges and shifts occurring within different nations.
"The extraordinary finding, a complete reversal of Labour manifesto pledges and its historical commitment to helping the world’s poorest..." - Ian Mitchell, Centre for Global Development.