Eurotopics.net

In response to the controversial judicial reform, President Klaus Iohannis wants to consult the people of Romania about the constitutional state on 26 May, the same day the EU elections take place in the country. Last year the government increased its influence over the judiciary and in other areas by occupying top posts. Can the referendum help the fight against corruption?

A video released by the German industrial metal band Rammstein for their new single "Deutschland" has provoked an outcry. It shows four band members wearing what looks like concentration camp uniforms and standing at the gallows. The Central Council of Jews in Germany has rebuked the band for using the Holocaust for marketing. Media outside of Germany are also discussing the video.

The Ukrainians will elect a new president on Sunday. Comedian Volodymyr Zelensky is leading the polls, ahead of current president Petro Poroshenko and former prime minister Yulia Tymoshenko. A second round of voting seems likely. Commentators explain the role of the war with Russia in the election and what people see in Zelensky.

Third time lucky? The British House of Commons will vote once again on May's Brexit deal on Friday afternoon. The House speaker has approved a third vote on the grounds that the new draft contains sufficient change because it leaves out any mention of future relations with the EU. In a bid to avoid her deal being rejected a third time Prime Minister May offered to resign if it passes. But it's by no means certain that this strategy will pay off, commentators point out.

The Christchurch attacker apparently visited historic sites of battles between Crusaders and the Ottomans. The manifesto he posted online shortly before the attack also echoes conspiracy theories prevalent in Europe according to which Muslims are seeking to replace the European population. Commentators discuss to what extent Europe bears responsibility for the shootings.