European Union

MEPs have been urged to consider the 'significant risks' that next-generation Artificial Intelligence applications could entail, particularly with regards to discrimination, employment, and social exclusion.

The European Commission is working on a series of key performance indicators (KPI) to include in the update of its industrial strategy expected for March, to measure the transformation of European industry and its resilience in the aftermath of the pandemic.

Germany's Christian Democratic Union (CDU) is to elect its new leader on Saturday. Europe's press stresses the significance of the decision beyond party politics and Germany's borders. Commentators are doubtful that any of the three candidates has what it takes to succeed not just current CDU leader Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer, but also Angela Merkel as the new chancellor.

Greece and Turkey have agreed to begin talks on 25 January - but with wildly different expectations. Athens only wants to discuss the "exclusive economic zone" and the gas reserves there; Ankara is determined to also tackle the maritime borders around the Greek islands near the Turkish coast. The media in both countries warn about their respective governments backing down.

The Danish public broadcaster DR has caused an uproar with a new children's cartoon series about a man with a giant penis. According to the title song John Dillermand (whose name translates as "penis man"), has the longest penis in the world and has many adventures with it. For some the show is a monstrosity; for others it's a welcome break with taboos.

Italy's four-party government has collapsed. On Wednesday evening, Italia Viva leader Matteo Renzi pulled out of the centre-left coalition, claiming that Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte was unfit to lead the country in these difficult times. The dispute was sparked mainly by disagreements over the distribution of EU coronavirus funds. Commentators examine the repercussions beyond Italy's borders.

Estonian Prime Minister Jüri Ratas (of the Centre Party) has tended his resignation after his party came under investigation for corruption in connection with the granting of a government loan for a real estate project. Kaja Kallas - leader of the liberal Reform Party, leader of the opposition, and the real winner of the elections two years ago - has been tasked with forming a new government.