Eurotopics.net

Exactly one month from now, on 26 September, parliamentary elections will be held in Germany, the EU's most populous state and strongest economy. When Angela Merkel steps down as chancellor she will leave a considerable void not just in German politics, but also on the international stage. Concerned voices can be heard from other EU states.

The Paralympic Games in Tokyo opened on Tuesday with a spectacular show. Sports events for athletes with disabilities have long since left the shadows and entered the spotlight, some commentators rejoice. Others, however, note that despite the new brilliance of the Paralympics, many inequalities still exist.

Following the Taliban's recapture of Afghanistan, European commentators are fundamentally questioning Western involvement in Islamic countries. Is "exporting democracy " a laudable endeavour? A hopeless mission? Or even an imperialist presumption?

At their impromptu meeting on Wednesday, the EU interior ministers could not agree on a joint approach to taking in refugees from Afghanistan. The focus keeps returning to the possibilities for relocation in Afghanistan's neighbouring countries. Is the EU shirking its responsibilities?