Eurotopics.net

Austria's government is planning to introduce a ban on headscarves in kindergartens and elementary schools. Chancellor Kurz said the move was aimed at preventing "parallel societies". Is this pure populism or a sensible contribution to the emancipation of girls?

The victory of Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's national-conservative ruling party Fidesz in Hungary's parliamentary elections on Sunday is seen by many as a foregone conclusion. Polls put its share of the vote at more than 50 percent. The opposition is trying to forge a cross-party alliance to prevent this outcome. How long can Fidesz continue to dominate Hungary's political landscape?

Driving bans for diesel cars in German cities have been approved. The Federal Administrative Court's ruling could lead to considerable restrictions for drivers of diesel vehicles in a number of cities as early as this spring. What is exemplary for some could actually hinder climate protection, others believe.

Four days before the parliamentary elections a third of Italy's voters have yet to decide which party they will vote for. There is the possibility of a centre-right alliance comprising the Lega Nord, Silvio Berlusconi's Forza Italia and the Fratelli d'Italia becoming the strongest force, and the protest party Movimento 5 Stelle the strongest single party. It could be difficult to form a government. Cause for concern?

The 27-year-old investigative journalist Ján Kuciak and his girlfriend have been found shot dead in their home in Slovakia. Kuciak had uncovered a number of complex cases of tax evasion. Commentators blame politicians in Slovakia and across the EU for creating a climate in which journalists no longer feel safe.