What happened in the Amsterdam attacks?

Tensions in Amsterdam have escalated following violent incidents involving Maccabi fans and pro-Palestinian activists, coinciding with the Israel-Gaza war. The violence, which occurred during a Kristallnacht commemoration, led to numerous arrests and international condemnation, including from US President Joe Biden. Amsterdam's mayor, Femke Halsema, has faced criticism for her handling of the situation, particularly from right-wing politicians, and has implemented measures to prevent further unrest. The Jewish community in Amsterdam feels increasingly threatened, with many fearing identification as supporters of Israel.

Printing large banknotes is not the cause of high inflation; it is the result

The article argues that printing large banknotes is not the cause of high inflation but rather a consequence of it. The focus is on understanding the underlying economic factors that lead to inflation, challenging common misconceptions about the relationship between currency printing and inflation rates.

Europe’s space competitiveness falls into a black hole

Europe's space industry faces significant challenges due to international competition, particularly from SpaceX and Starlink. The Draghi report highlights the EU's declining competitiveness, with European public funding for space lagging behind the US and China. Major players like Airbus and Thales are downsizing, and Arianespace struggles to compete with SpaceX's Falcon 9. Eutelsat's reliance on SpaceX for satellite launches underscores the sector's difficulties. Calls for a 'buy European' policy and increased public expenditure aim to revitalize the industry, but doubts remain about projects like IRIS2. Despite setbacks, Europe still has potential, with initiatives like the Ariane 6 and cooperation with China offering hope.

France’s political impasse, no end in sight

France is experiencing a political deadlock as President Emanuel Macron's centrist party lost its parliamentary majority, leading to a fragmented political landscape with three main blocs: left, center, and far-right. Macron faces challenges in forming a stable government, with options including a grand coalition or dissolving parliament for new elections. The current political impasse is exacerbated by the electoral system's lack of support for coalitions, and the potential for constitutional reform remains uncertain. Macron's leadership and legacy are at stake as he navigates these complex political dynamics.

Let’s not write off Germany’s centrist politics just yet

State elections in eastern Germany are testing the resilience of centrist politics amid rising support for far-right and far-left parties. Despite challenges, mainstream parties like the SPD, Greens, and FDP are expected to refocus on national politics, with financial constraints influencing their stance on Ukraine. The CDU/CSU faces coalition dilemmas, while anti-migrant sentiment grows, particularly in eastern states. Overall, Germany's support for the EU and NATO remains strong, with the center holding against extremism.

From Israel’s killing of Haniyeh to a ceasefire in Gaza?

The article discusses the potential implications of the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh by Israel, considering the broader geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. It explores the possible reactions from Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran, and the strategic calculations of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The piece highlights the delicate balance of power and the risks of escalation, while also considering the potential for a ceasefire in Gaza. The international community's role in preventing further conflict is emphasized, with a focus on the urgent need for de-escalation to avoid an all-out war.

Is the US a racist misogynist country? A handful of voters will decide

The article explores the central themes of racism and misogyny in the upcoming US presidential election, focusing on Kamala Harris's candidacy. It highlights the challenges she faces, including smear campaigns and the need to galvanize support among minorities and women. The piece draws parallels with past elections and the Brexit campaign, emphasizing the role of fear-mongering in political strategies. It underscores the importance of a positive message and the influence of swing-state voters in determining the election outcome and America's future image.

Journalism after the Trump shooting

The article discusses the challenges faced by journalists in reporting on far-right populists like Donald Trump, especially in the wake of his shooting. It highlights the media's struggle to effectively counter the growing popularity of far-right movements in Western countries. The piece emphasizes the importance of media introspection and the need for journalists to defend democracy and open societies. It also examines the role of media narratives in political mobilization, as seen in the recent French elections, and critiques the far-right's tactics of playing the victim card and demonizing the media.

The Netherlands’ lessons from the UK – and England

Dutch politics is currently more dynamic than the UK's, with the Netherlands' new right-wing government facing controversy over racist tropes and far-right influence. Geert Wilders, a prominent far-right figure, is criticized for his role in the government. The article contrasts this with the UK, where Keir Starmer's Labour Party is seen as a return to centrist, business-friendly politics. Despite Labour's victory, European focus remains on far-right activities, with limited attention to post-Brexit Britain. The article suggests a shift in European business sentiment towards stable, predictable governance over far-right populism.

Amsterdam’s new Holocaust museum

The new National Holocaust Museum in Amsterdam aims to tell the comprehensive story of the Holocaust, focusing on the dehumanization of Jews, Roma, and Sinti. Despite its mission, there are concerns about whether the museum effectively conveys the industrial process of genocide. The museum's approach, which avoids overwhelming gruesome images, has sparked debate on its educational impact. The museum's context includes challenges in Holocaust education in the Netherlands and a rightward political shift. Key figures involved include Emile Schrijver and Annemiek Gringold.