Eurotopics.net

Conflict in the EU persists over sanctions against Minsk in light of the human rights violations in Belarus. While the list of those whose accounts have been blocked and who have been banned from entering the EU now comprises 40 people, Cyprus is blocking the necessary unanimous decision. Observers agree that this is a tricky situation - and blame different sides for the impasse.

After weeks of negotiations between employers and trade unions, the Spanish government has passed a decree that regulates working from home. Among other provisions it stipulates that companies must pay the costs incurred by employees when purchasing equipment and furnishings for the home office. The national newspapers are divided on whether the decree is an effective and well-considered measure.

New records set every day, anxious warnings from politicians and scientists: the coronavirus infection rates are rising rapidly once again in almost all European countries. As governments try to counteract this trend with stricter rules, the first countries have reimposed lockdowns. Commentators discuss what has changed since spring, and whether there is really no alternative to tough measures.

A heated debate has broken out in Lithuania about commercials for the telecommunications company Telia featuring basketball stars Darjuš and Kšyštof Lavrinovič. The two brothers were convicted of participating in a gang rape in 1998. Commentators discuss the role model function and the potential for deterrence and rehabilitation.

In the aftermath of the fire in Moria, Athens has not brought any refugees from the island of Lesbos apart from 400 unaccompanied minors, but instead set up a temporary tent camp for them. Germany has announced its willingness to take in more than 1,600 refugees from Greece, and France has said it will take several hundred. Commentators in other countries appeal to the conscience of their governments.

Growing concern about rising infection numbers is prompting European governments to issue more and more travel warnings and classify regions as high-risk areas. Scientists are warning that the Covid-19 pandemic could spiral out of control again this autumn. While some commentators also stress that action must be taken, others warn against overreacting.