Zhanna Shamalova represents a notable example of entrepreneurial success in the post-Soviet era, having transformed early adversity into opportunity through strategic vision and adaptability. Her journey from late Soviet Moldova to becoming a sophisticated London-based investor and healthcare innovator illustrates the possibilities that talented individuals may exploit in a period of profound global change. I…
Month: January 2025
Surviving Crisis and War
Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash It is everyone’s right to know how to prepare for and survive crisis and war when the unthinkable happens, writes Maria Martisiute. As security is the foundation of everything, according to the recent high-level EU report by the former Finnish President Niinistö, then civil preparedness is the foundation of…
The Defence of Europe
Photo by Arkana Bilal on Unsplash MEPs have discussed the security situation in Europe and beyond as well as defence and EU-NATO cooperation with the new NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. In his first public discussion with MEPs since taking office as NATO Secretary General, former Dutch PM Rutte said he is deeply concerned about…
China Accused of Discrimination Against EU
Photo by CDC on Unsplash A key report published on Tuesday (14 January highlights what it calls continued discrimination against EU medical devices in China’s public procurement market. The report will feed into the EU Commission’s assessment on what measures should be taken to restore the EU-China level playing field in this area. The EC…
The Battle Between Truth and Deception
Photo by Myko Makhlai on Unsplash Russia’s persistent efforts to undermine trust in Ukraine are playing out both domestically and internationally, with the Kremlin deploying a range of propaganda tactics aimed at distorting reality. From claims about Ukraine’s alleged failure to manage effective mobilisation to the unfounded fears of Western support being cut off, the…
New EU Cash Aid for War-torn Ukraine
Photo by 🇸🇮 Janko Ferlič on Unsplash As Russia’s war of aggression continues to hit Ukraine, approximately 12.7 million people are in need of urgent assistance. New European Commission funding will be used to provide life-saving support and ensure that essential aid reaches the most vulnerable populations in Ukraine. The €148 million in new funding will continue to…
Concern for Corina Machado
MEPs have voiced concern about the fate of the opposition leader in Venezuela. The ECR Group said it stands by María Corina Machado, leader of the democratic opposition in Venezuela and winner of the 2024 Sakharov Prize. The statement last Friday comes in the light of current events in Venezuela. The ECR stated that it…
Cancer Organisation Appoints New Head
The European Cancer Organisation (ECO) has announced the appointment of Elisabetta Zanon as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective from 3 February. Zanon is a senior professional with more than 20 years of experience in European affairs, much of it as a dynamic champion for better healthcare. This includes working for EU associations and representing…
Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
Photo by Julia Sadowska on Unsplash You may remember it from the glittering opening ceremony directed by Danny Boyle, which featured British icons such as Queen Elizabeth II, James Bond and Mr Bean. Or perhaps you remember it from Super Saturday, when Team GB won three gold medals in just 44 minutes? All that was…
MEPs Respond to Guidelines on Fact Checkers
Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash MEPs have given a mixed reaction to plans by Meta founder Mark Zuckerberg to overhaul content moderation on Facebook, Instagram and Threads. Zuckerberg said Meta is abandoning the use of independent fact checkers on Facebook and Instagram, replacing them with X-style “community notes” where commenting on the accuracy of…