Hussein Makki, a top Hezbollah field commander, was killed in an IDF drone strike in southern Lebanon. The Israeli military stated that Makki was responsible for planning and executing numerous terror attacks as part of Hezbollah's 'Southern Front' unit. This incident is part of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, highlighting the continued tensions and military engagements in the region.

The Pomak villages, located in the Rhodope Mountains at the Greece-Bulgaria border, are a culturally rich yet historically marginalized community. The Pomaks, of Slavic origin and converted to Islam during the Ottoman Empire, face ongoing challenges due to their minority status in Greece. Eminè Bouroutzì, a prominent figure in the community, leads efforts to preserve Pomak culture and improve social conditions. Historical neglect and geopolitical tensions have left the villages isolated, with inadequate healthcare and educational services. The article highlights the resilience of the Pomak people and their struggle for recognition and better living conditions.

The article discusses the transformation of the Piraeus port in Greece under the management of the China Ocean Shipping Company (Cosco). It highlights the historical context of the area, labor struggles, and the significant investments made by Cosco, which have led to both economic growth and labor disputes. The article also covers the recent signing of a collective labor agreement and the local opposition to further port expansion due to environmental and social concerns.

In Mykonos, the most cosmopolitan of the Greek islands, 80 percent of new constructions are irregular. Protesting against these irregularities comes with significant personal risk, indicating the influence of criminal organizations over the tourism sector.

Greek students and professors are protesting against a proposed law by the ruling New Democracy party to establish a university police force, fearing it will suppress freedom of expression. The law aims to address violence in universities by empowering a special police force to guard campuses and arrest troublemakers, and by creating a disciplinary council to suspend or expel students. Critics argue that the problem is not violence but chronic underfunding of education. Historical context is provided, referencing the violent suppression of student protests during the military dictatorship in the 1970s. The Ministry for Citizen Protection defends the reform, stating it will protect free flow of ideas from extremist groups. The Oxford UCU has shown solidarity with Greek professors, and Amnesty International has noted an increase in police abuses in Greece. The government also plans to increase police presence in other areas, such as public transport, despite Greece already having a high police-to-inhabitant ratio in the EU.

The article by Elena Kaniadakis discusses the severe impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Rome's tourism-dependent economy, particularly in the Trastevere district. With a significant drop in tourist numbers, local businesses and residents are facing challenges. Housing expert Sarah Gainsforth and local residents like Roberta D'Onofrio are finding innovative solutions, such as converting holiday homes into workspaces. The article highlights the over-reliance on tourism and the need for economic diversification. It also touches on the broader issue of 'touristification' in cities worldwide and the potential for regulatory measures to balance tourism with local quality of life. The pandemic is seen as an opportunity to rethink and potentially revitalize local communities, but there is also a risk of increased speculation and loss of public assets if timely actions are not taken.

On April 2, Bulgaria, the most pro-Russian country in the European Union, goes to the polls under the influence of a massive Russian disinformation campaign. This could be a model for what might happen in next year's European elections.

The article by Elena Kaniadakis for Euronews explores the lasting impact of the Greco-Turkish War and the subsequent population exchange on the descendants of Greek refugees who fled Turkey nearly a century ago. It delves into the personal stories of these descendants, who maintain their cultural identity through associations and community activities in Athens. The article highlights the painful memories evoked by recent tensions between Greece and Turkey, and emphasizes the significant contributions of the Anatolian Greeks to Greek culture. It also discusses the geographical impact on Athens, where many districts are named after places in Asia Minor, reflecting the heritage of the refugees who settled there. The piece underscores the importance of remembering history while acknowledging the need to manage present-day challenges.

Elefsina, a city near Athens, aims to revive its cultural and economic fortunes through its designation as a European Capital of Culture for 2023. Historically significant as a sacred site, the city has faced economic decline due to industrial closures and the Greek debt crisis. The European project 2023 Eleusis seeks to transform former industrial spaces into cultural venues, promoting local heritage and addressing modern challenges like migration and economic sustainability. Key figures involved in the initiative express optimism about the city's future, emphasizing the potential for cultural activities to drive economic recovery.

The booming tourism industry and the sale of visas to non-Europeans are inflating the real estate market in Greece, particularly in Athens and Santorini, leaving many Greeks unable to afford housing.

Bosnia and Herzegovina faces a political crisis rooted in its complex ethnic divisions and historical conflicts. The Republika Srpska, led by nationalist Milorad Dodik, is at the center of tensions, with allegations of electoral fraud and secessionist ambitions. Despite some progress with the election of civic-minded leaders, traditional ethnic parties maintain significant influence. The geopolitical landscape is further complicated by ties to Russia and the European Union. Corruption and economic challenges exacerbate the situation, leaving the country in a state of political and social stagnation.

The article commemorates the centenary of the 'great catastrophe' of Smyrna, detailing the exodus of Greeks from Turkey in 1922. It highlights Ernest Hemingway's vivid reporting on the Greek-Turkish war and the subsequent forced migrations. The narrative covers the historical context of the Greco-Turkish conflict, the cultural impact on modern Greece, and the ongoing geopolitical tensions between Greece and Turkey. Key figures such as Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, Eleftherios Venizelos, and notable Greeks like Aristotle Onassis and Giorgos Seferis are mentioned. The article also touches on current issues, including territorial disputes in the Aegean Sea and Greece's strategic role in NATO.

In 2017, a Novartis manager's suicide attempt in Athens led to revelations of a corruption scandal involving Novartis Hellas, accused of bribing doctors and politicians to boost drug prescriptions and prices. The scandal, significant due to Greece's role in setting drug prices for 30 countries, has persisted for five years, fueling political tensions between the left-wing Syriza and the conservative Nea Dimokratia. Key figures include prosecutor Eleni Touloupaki, who led the anti-corruption unit, and various politicians accused of involvement. The scandal has international implications, with the FBI concluding its investigation with a $345 million settlement from Novartis. Recent developments include the acquittal of journalists and Touloupaki, and the Greek government's lawsuit against Novartis for damages. The case remains a contentious issue in Greek politics, highlighting ongoing struggles with corruption and political interference.

Limassol, Cyprus, known as the 'Little Moscow-on-the-Mediterranean', is facing an economic crisis due to EU sanctions against Russia. With a significant Russian expatriate community, the city has been a hub for Russian investment and tourism. However, the sanctions have led to a financial blockade, affecting local businesses and the real estate market. The community is resorting to the black market for currency exchange and seeking legal assistance to unfreeze bank accounts. The cultural ties between Cyprus and Russia, once celebrated, are now strained, with events postponed and a sense of alienation growing among Russian Cypriots. The future of the city's economy is uncertain as it looks for new investors to replace the stable, long-term Russian funding that supported projects like universities and hospitals.

Cyprus faces economic challenges due to sanctions against Russia, impacting its reliance on Russian investments and tourism. The island's economy, heavily dependent on Russian oligarchs and expatriates, is strained as financial transactions are disrupted and tourism declines. The cessation of operations by the Russian Commercial Bank and the revocation of citizenships highlight the broader geopolitical tensions. While Cyprus seeks alternative investors, the future remains uncertain, with the local community feeling the repercussions of the ongoing Ukraine conflict.

The article highlights the dire situation of migrants on the Greek island of Samos, where many face imprisonment or forced pushbacks to Turkey. It details the tragic story of a father and son from Afghanistan, the legal battles faced by migrants accused of human trafficking, and the systematic pushbacks conducted by Greek authorities, often denied by the government. Human rights organizations like Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have condemned these actions, while the UNHCR has raised alarms about the recurring testimonies of abuse. The article also discusses the broader implications of these practices, including the increased danger and cost for migrants trying to reach Europe.

Mitrovica, a city in northern Kosovo, remains divided more than twenty years after the Kosovo war, with the Ibar River separating the Albanian and Serbian populations. The city, once prosperous and multicultural, now reflects unresolved ethnic tensions and disillusionment about the future. NATO peacekeeping forces have been present since the 1999 conflict, and recent events in Ukraine have raised fears of destabilization in the Balkans. Mitrovica's residents face challenges such as segregated living, language barriers, and political manipulation. The Serbian government funds a parallel state system in the city's northern part, and the Kosovo government's actions, such as not recognizing Serbian license plates, have caused tensions. International presence and Serbia's EU candidacy hopes mitigate the risk of violence, but the future remains uncertain.

During the economic crisis, half a million young people left Greece. Now, with the debt settled, the government is urging them to return home by offering more jobs and lower taxes.

Jacky Benmayor, the last speaker of Ladino in Greece, is dedicated to reviving this Jewish language, once prevalent in Thessaloniki. Despite the near extinction of Ladino following the Holocaust, Benmayor teaches it at the University of Thessaloniki, aiming to preserve the cultural heritage of the Jewish community. The Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki and upcoming cultural projects reflect a growing interest in the city's Jewish history. Ladino courses are gaining popularity in academia worldwide, fostering hope for the language's future.

Christos Tsirogiannis, a forensic archaeologist, has been instrumental in identifying and repatriating stolen artifacts to their countries of origin. His work has led to the recovery of numerous ancient artifacts from major auction houses and museums. Despite the challenges posed by the art market's lack of transparency, Tsirogiannis continues to collaborate with international authorities to combat illegal artifact trade. His efforts have highlighted the ongoing issues within the art market and the need for more stringent provenance checks.

In August, fires in Evia drove away tourists, but some residents stayed to defend their homes. The article revisits the island to see how they are now dealing with floods and facing an uncertain future.

In September 2018, LGBTQ+ activist Zak Kostopoulos was beaten to death in Athens. The trial against the six accused, including a jeweler, his friend, and four police officers, began on October 20, 2021. The case highlights issues like police brutality, homophobia, and media bias in Greece. Amnesty International and Orlando Lgbt+ are among the observers in the trial. Forensic Architecture, known for investigating human rights violations, is assisting the Kostopoulos family. The article underscores the societal and cultural implications of the case, reflecting on Greece's progress and ongoing challenges in LGBTQ+ rights.

The article discusses the plight of Afghan refugees in Greece, particularly in the Lesbos refugee camp, where they face dire living conditions and bureaucratic hurdles. Oxfam and the Greek Council for Refugees criticize the Greek government's policy of considering Turkey a 'safe country' for asylum seekers, leading to many applications being rejected. The article highlights the personal stories of refugees like Tahmina, who express concern for their families in Afghanistan and frustration with their current situation. The Greek government's promise of new, dignified refugee camps remains unfulfilled, exacerbating the crisis.

Leros, an island in Greece, has a history of hosting one of Europe's largest mental asylums and is now an expanding hotspot for refugees. The island appears to be unable to escape its historical role as a place of confinement.

Greece is constructing a 27-kilometer steel wall along its border with Turkey to prevent migrant crossings, employing advanced surveillance technologies like long-range cameras and sound cannons. The article highlights the militarized nature of the border, the involvement of Frontex, and the controversial pushbacks of migrants, which have been criticized by organizations like Amnesty International and the UN Human Rights Council. Personal stories, such as that of Fady, a Syrian refugee, underscore the human impact of these policies. The Greek government maintains that its actions are legal and necessary for national security.

The Greek island of Leros, historically known for its psychiatric hospital, is now facing controversy over a new migrant detention center. The Greek government plans to expand the facility, which has sparked opposition from local residents and NGOs. The island's mayor and residents express concerns about the impact on local resources and tourism. Historical parallels are drawn with past uses of the island for detention. The article includes personal accounts from migrants and volunteers, highlighting the ongoing humanitarian issues.

Greece is preparing to welcome tourists starting May 14, lifting COVID-19 lockdown restrictions and allowing visitors without quarantine. The tourism sector, crucial to Greece's economy, has been severely impacted by the pandemic, with significant job losses. Vaccination efforts are underway, particularly on small and remote islands, though challenges remain due to vaccine skepticism and logistical difficulties. Despite a slow vaccine rollout compared to other EU countries, Greek officials are optimistic about the upcoming tourist season, emphasizing increased population immunity and the economic necessity of reopening.

In Athens, a series of violent acts against journalists and media figures, including the murder of Giorgos Karaivaz and threats against investigative journalist Kostas Vaxevanis, have highlighted a grim scenario for press freedom in Greece. Vaxevanis, who has previously faced death threats and legal challenges for his work, is now under police protection. His publication, Documento, has exposed scandals involving members of the conservative Nea Dimokratia party and has been excluded from government funding for COVID-19 information campaigns. The arrest of television presenter Menios Fourthiotis for orchestrating a fake attack on himself and his alleged connections to the government have raised serious questions about the relationship between politics, police, and organized crime in Greece. The situation has contributed to Greece's decline in the Reporters without borders press freedom ranking, and the government has been criticized for creating a hostile environment for critical journalism.

The article discusses the recent surge in police violence and political repression in Greece, particularly under the conservative government of Kyriakos Mitsotakis. It highlights the violent clashes between police and protesters in Athens, the increase in police abuses reported by Amnesty International, and the political tensions exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The article also covers the controversial case of Dimitris Koufontinas, a convicted terrorist whose hunger strike has sparked further protests and violence. The narrative underscores the deepening political polarization and societal unrest in Greece.

The article investigates the alleged connections between the neo-Nazi party Golden Dawn and the Esphigmenou Monastery on Mount Athos, Greece. It details the monastery's history of rebellion against the Patriarchate of Constantinople and its current status as a haven for far-right extremists. The piece highlights the escape of Christos Pappas, a convicted Golden Dawn leader, and the monastery's potential role in his evasion of law enforcement. The article also explores the broader implications of the alliance between the monastery's rebel monks and Golden Dawn, including their mutual support and the challenges faced by Greek authorities in maintaining order.

Following the fire that destroyed the Moria refugee camp on Lesbos, Greece, the Greek government plans to close two smaller camps, Pikpa and the original Kara Tepe, which were considered safe havens by many migrants. Over 160 organizations have petitioned against the closures, arguing for the need to maintain dignified housing solutions. The closures are part of a broader strategy to consolidate migrants into a single large facility for better management, supported by the EU. The decision has sparked criticism from activists and migrants who fear for their safety and future.

The article examines the effectiveness of carbon offsetting practices by airlines, which involve passengers donating to environmental projects to compensate for CO2 emissions from flights. Experts argue that these measures are often ineffective and serve more as a way to ease conscience rather than addressing the root causes of climate change. The text highlights various airline initiatives, such as reforestation projects and investments in sustainable aviation fuels, while also noting the significant environmental impact of the aviation industry. Criticisms from environmental organizations and experts emphasize the need for more substantial changes, such as reducing reliance on kerosene and implementing stricter regulations.

The article discusses the challenges of ensuring global accessibility and affordability of a COVID-19 vaccine, highlighting the tension between public health needs and the profit-driven pharmaceutical industry. It features testimonies from experts and advocates who criticize the current system and call for reforms, including public funding and policy changes to prioritize health over profit. The article also mentions various global and regional efforts to address these issues, such as the WHO's global project and legislative changes in Europe and Canada.

In Italy, the hardest-hit country in Europe by the COVID-19 pandemic, young medical professionals share their frontline experiences. Giovanni, a young doctor, monitors non-intubated patients and fears not being able to save them. Sabrina, a nurse, faces the challenge of potentially bringing the virus home and has moved away from her parents to protect them. Marta, an educator in a healthcare facility for the elderly, describes the emotional and physical toll on staff and residents. The article highlights the severe impact of the pandemic on healthcare workers and their personal struggles.

The article discusses the rehabilitation efforts for paedophile priests within the Catholic Church, focusing on the work of Marco Ermes Luparia at Divino Amore in Rome. It highlights the controversy surrounding the treatment of convicted sex offenders and the lack of support for victims. Francesco Zanardi of L'Abuso criticizes the disparity in support between perpetrators and victims. Maurizio Marasco and Paolo Giulini provide insights into the challenges and limitations of treating paedophilia and the effectiveness of rehabilitation programs. The article underscores the ongoing debate about the adequacy of these measures and the need for better oversight and support systems.