Eurotopics.net

With six months to go before France's presidential election in April and May 2017, the incumbent head of state François Hollande is lagging far behind in the polls. Only four percent of the French are satisfied with his performance. Commentators speculate that this could push many Socialists to make an unusual decision.

In a draft resolution passed on Tuesday the European Parliament calls for the establishment of a system for regular monitoring of the state of democracy, the rule of law and fundamental rights in all EU member states. This could lead to the abolishment of the current system under which only Bulgaria and Romania are monitored. Bulgaria's press is divided.

After two elections and months of deadlock Spain is finally getting a new government. The socialist PSOE party has decided to back a minority government led by Mariano Rajoy and his conservative People's Party - a course they initially rejected after the election in June. Journalists predict that the Socialists will have a hard time supporting the conservatives.

After the third TV duel in the US election campaign 2106, all the attention is on Donald Trump's statement that he might not recognise the results. In saying this Trump has sullied democracy and declared himself a loser, commentators say. They also warn that if the old guard wins, we have not seen the end of populism.

Russian President Vladimir Putin paid a visit to German Chancellor Angel Merkel in Berlin for the first time since 2012. Together with the French and Ukrainian presidents they agreed on a plan of action for Eastern Ukraine. Merkel also criticised Russia's "inhuman" actions in the Syrian war. But without a strategic vision, Europe's leaders are powerless against Putin, commentators complain.

A dispute is brewing between the EU and Switzerland over the immigration controls the Swiss voted for in a referendum in February 2014. At stake is whether limits on immigration are compatible with the EU freedom of movement agreement. With Brexit negotiations looming the EU won't be willing to make any concessions, some commentators say. Others warn against making an example of Switzerland.