Eurotopics.net

Since the start of the coronavirus pandemic many observers have said that the crisis is exposing and sometimes even exacerbating social inequalities. Now these voices are being joined by criticism of how certain governments have dealt with the pandemic. Commentators argue that for instance Stockholm and Ankara have left certain sections of their society in the lurch.

The Israeli government is currently considering controversial plans to annex areas in the occupied West Bank. US President Donald Trump gave the green light for the move at the beginning of the year with his peace plan. Soon after, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced the annexation would begin in the summer. His government's coalition agreement sets July 1 as the date.

Germany takes over the EU Council presidency today, July 1. As during Germany's last presidency in 2007, Chancellor Angela Merkel is still leading the country. Observers see getting the EU through the coronavirus crisis and rebuilding the economy as her most important task. While most believe she can achieve this, others have their doubts.

China has passed the controversial national security law in Hong Kong. The legislation was initiated by the National People's Congress at the end of May and has now been unanimously adopted by the Standing Committee. The law gives the authorities considerable powers to crack down on the opposition and the protests that have not let up since 2019. What does the legislation mean, and how should the world react?