European Union

The citizens of the Former Yugoslavian Republic of Macedonia (Fyrom) will vote on Sunday on the compromise negotiated with Athens in the name dispute under which the country would change its name to the Republic of North Macedonia. The Greek parliament is expected to vote on the deal at the start of next year. Commentators explain what's at stake for all sides.

Italy's new government is due to present its budget plan to the European Commission today, Thursday. In his draft budget independent finance minister Giovanni Tria aims for a deficit that doesn't exceed 1.8 percent of the country's GDP. The ruling parties, however, want the deficit target to be raised to 2.4 percent in order to push through their election promises. Italy's press is sceptical.

Tensions have been smouldering in Sweden since the elections: the leader of the Christian Democrats, Ebba Busch Thor, has said she is willing to accept the support of the right-wing populist Sweden Democrats which would allow her to form a governing majority. At the same time a document circulating in the government administration calls on civil servants to boycott a government which includes the Sweden Democrats. Swedish journalists voice their concern.

Local and regional authorities met with EU Budget Commissioner Günther Oettinger on Tuesday (25 September) to express their concern that the funding for Cohesion is likely to be reduced in the next long-term EU budget due to Brexit and new priorities.

Air pollution in Brussels has gotten worse for the second year in a row, according to data published by the national government.