Eurotopics.net

Jews in Lower Austria will in future only be able to buy kosher meat if they can prove their religious affiliation. Austria's animal protection laws are already very strict regarding ritual slaughter. But animal welfare is just being used as a pretext in the debate, commentators criticise.

France's National Assembly is currently debating the constitutional reform presented by President Macron. Among other things the president proposes restructuring the state institutions, reinforcing the separation of powers, increasing civil participation and simplifying the country's legislation. French commentators are dissatisfied with the plan.

The EU Commission has announced a record fine for Google: the tech giant must pay 4.3 billion euros for abuse of its dominant market position. Some commentators are delighted to see the EU actively protecting the interests of consumers. Others argue that only innovation can challenge Google's dominance.

Following the summit in Helsinki US President Trump has come under major pressure and is rejecting cross-party criticism in the US of his conduct at the summit meeting. Most commentators also take a dim view of Trump's foreign policy. But there are exceptions.

A maritime rescue team discovered on Tuesday a woman clinging to the remains of a rubber dinghy, flanked by two corpses. Rescue organisations accuse the Libyan coastguard of failing to render assistance and leaving migrants to die in the Mediterranean. How can the EU rely on cooperation with a failed state like Libya, commentators ask.