Eurotopics.net

The World Health Organisation (WHO) declared coronavirus a global health emergency last Thursday. The number of confirmed cases has now risen above 17,000, with 361 deaths. European media call for appropriate action from the EU, but also from civil society.

As of February 1, Britain will officially no longer be a member of the EU. This also means that the United Kingdom ceases to have any say in Brussels. During the transition period which lasts until the end of 2020, much will remain the same as regards border traffic and trade. European media discuss what stance the EU should adopt vis-à-vis Britain and which party will suffer most in the aftermath.

In view of growing numbers of migrants reaching the Greek islands from Turkey, Athens has announced plans to build floating fences. In a first step a three-kilometre barrier that protrudes half a metre out of the water and is lined with flashing lights will be erected off Lesbos. The cost is estimated at half a million euros. Commentators are unimpressed by the idea.

Fierce protests broke out in the Romanian village of Ditrău after a local bread factory hired two bakers from Sri Lanka, with protesters calling for measures to stop the "migrant influx". According to media reports the two men have already left the area after being threatened. The regional press condemn the incident but call for understanding for the deep-rooted fears behind the hostility to foreigners.