Catherine Gay Menzel and her husband, Götz Menzel, have established their architecture firm, GayMenzel, in the small town of Saint-Maurice, located in the Swiss Canton of Valais. Their work spans various types of buildings, from public spaces to chalets, drawing inspiration from their experiences in New York, Basel, and Hamburg. Catherine notes the diverse nature of their work in contrast to the specialization often found in urban settings.

Following the victory of centrist opposition parties in Poland's parliamentary elections, led by Donald Tusk's Civic Coalition, a coalition government is expected to form. The new government faces the task of rebuilding democratic institutions and addressing media freedom issues created by the previous Law and Justice (PiS) party government. The state-owned media, including TVP, Polish Radio, and the PAP news agency, were targeted by PiS for control, and private media outlets faced regulatory and financial pressures. The incoming government aims to reform the media landscape in line with EU values, but faces challenges such as the National Media Council's resistance and potential vetoes from President Andrzej Duda. The future of Polska Press and the management of state-owned companies, as well as the National Broadcasting Council's regulation, are key issues. The government is urged to enact systemic reforms to depoliticize broadcasters and ensure editorial independence.

Poland's opposition, led by Donald Tusk, declared victory in a pivotal election, suggesting a shift away from the ruling Law and Justice party's eight-year tenure marked by populist policies and democratic backsliding. Exit polls indicate a coalition of younger, urban, and western Polish voters supporting the opposition, which could significantly impact Polish democracy, European unity, and the West's stance against Russian aggression. The ruling party, while claiming victory, faces challenges in forming a government. The election saw high voter turnout and was closely monitored internationally due to Poland's strategic role in the response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Election results in Poland indicate a significant shift in power away from the hard-right Law and Justice party, which has been criticized for eroding liberal democracy, suppressing the free press, controlling the judiciary, and undermining LGBTQ+ and women's rights. This change mirrors challenges faced by Donald Trump in the United States and Jair Bolsonaro in Brazil, as they dealt with defeat in the democracies they were accused of undermining.

Poland's political opposition, led by Donald Tusk, declared victory in a pivotal election, suggesting a shift away from the ruling Law and Justice party's eight-year tenure. The exit poll indicates a coalition of younger, urban, and western Polish voters supporting the opposition, which could have significant implications for Polish democracy, European unity, and the West's stance against Russian aggression. The ruling party, despite claiming victory, faces challenges in forming a new government. The election outcome is closely watched by international stakeholders due to Poland's central role in the response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Poland's upcoming elections on Sunday are expected to have significant repercussions across Europe, including in Brussels. The event is highlighted as a critical development in European politics.

Following a massive rally in Kiev's Independence Square, pro-EU protesters braced for a police crackdown. Despite initial tension, the police did not immediately act, and volunteers and priests helped maintain calm. Authorities closed central metro stations, citing bomb threats, but protesters remained undeterred. President Yanukovych met with former leaders and EU's Catherine Ashton to seek a peaceful resolution. However, riot police launched an unsuccessful onslaught after midnight, leading to a retreat. US Secretary of State John Kerry condemned the police actions. The Ukrainian government claimed the actions were to ease traffic congestion, but many see it as the beginning of further unrest.

Annabelle Chapman shares insights and advice from her experience of running a newsletter on Substack for six months, addressing common questions and considerations for those thinking about starting their own.

Explores the relationship between language and identity, reflecting on how languages are passed down within families and their cultural significance.

August marks the 'cucumber season' in Poland, a period of slow activity, though conflicts like war and missile attacks persist. The author recounts a recent visit to Bern.

The article discusses the Swedish term 'flygskam' or 'flight shame,' which has influenced more Swedes to choose no-fly holidays. The author agrees with this approach but notes that shame is not a good motivator.

Reflecting on the passage of Midsommar and six months of writing the newsletter, the author feels a connection to the seasons even while traveling in Europe for work, experiencing multiple springs.

In 2017, Annabelle Chapman defended her doctoral thesis on people forced to move west from what is now western Ukraine as the Red Army advanced in 1944. Last year, history repeated itself as millions of Ukrainians fled west to safety.

Annabelle Chapman shares her personal journey of learning Swedish over the past nine months, emphasizing the intrinsic value of gaining access to a new language and the cultural insights it provides.

Explores the concept of 'bread and roses,' emphasizing the need for both basic necessities and elements that provide dignity, beauty, and nature for a fulfilling life.

Reflects on a recent event in Oxford about Europe and freedom, highlighting the importance of open borders and freedom of movement within the European Union. Mentions the influence of Professor Timothy Garton Ash and the gathering of ideas, friends, and mentors.

Annabelle Chapman reflects on her personal experiences visiting the Ashmolean Museum in Europe, emphasizing the significance of art and museums in her life. She recounts her routine of visiting the museum during her student days, highlighting the inspiration and solace she found in the museum's Print Room.

An activist in Poland has been sentenced for providing abortion pills, highlighting the country's near-total ban on abortion and sparking fears of increased difficulties for women seeking support for unwanted pregnancies. With parliamentary elections approaching, the case is expected to make abortion a significant campaign issue, emphasizing the divide between liberals and social conservatives.

Poland is facing a severe air pollution problem, with 33 of Europe's 50 most polluted cities. The European Air Quality Index, a tool by the EEA and the European Commission, shows real-time air quality and often rates southern Polish cities as 'very poor'. Coal heating is a major pollution source. EU officials, including Environment Commissioner Karmenu Vella, have expressed concern over the health impacts of pollution. In Poland, awareness is growing about the link between smog and health issues like lung cancer. Local authorities, such as in Rybnik, are implementing measures to combat pollution, but national legislation is also seen as necessary. Poland's Deputy Prime Minister announced anti-pollution programs for the affected cities, and an anti-smog law has been passed in Kraków, with other regions expected to follow.

Explores the relationship between architecture and wellbeing in Europe, focusing on how spaces impact mental and physical health.

As Europe entered lockdown in March 2020, a bakery in a Warsaw neighborhood distributed small packets of sourdough starter. The author, like many others, took one home and began baking.

The EU is advancing technology regulations requiring compromises among member states. France and Denmark, despite differing views on digital sovereignty, have united to impose new obligations on tech companies. France has the potential to be a digital innovation powerhouse, provided it avoids protectionism. Denmark's digital strategy is solid, but it must resist French protectionist tendencies and seek a transatlantic digital alliance. Italy, previously resistant to digitalization, is now embracing it, with Draghi's government prioritizing digital investments. Poland supports digitization but is at odds with the EU over content moderation and surveillance issues. The report underscores the need for increased public digital investments, competition-boosting policies, a reset of transatlantic relations, a cautious approach to China, and transatlantic cooperation on data and tax policies.

Poland will deliver four MiG-29 fighter jets to Ukraine, marking the first time a NATO ally has provided such aircraft to Ukraine. The jets are fully operational and will be delivered soon, according to Polish President Andrzej Duda. The method of delivery is classified. The US has reiterated its refusal to send F-16s to Ukraine, while the Polish move is seen as symbolic, potentially encouraging other allies to offer additional support. NATO air chiefs have been urged to provide modern fighters to Ukraine. Poland is upgrading its air force with South Korean FA-50s and American F-35s and plans to donate more MiGs after servicing. The US initially agreed to a jet transfer but later balked due to escalation concerns. Ukraine continues to request modern combat aircraft.

Poland will deliver four Soviet-made MiG-29 fighter jets to Ukraine, marking the first time a NATO ally has provided jets to Ukraine. This move increases pressure on other NATO allies to follow suit. The delivery, announced by Polish President Andrzej Duda, is seen as a symbolic gesture that could encourage further support. The United States, however, remains firm in its decision not to send F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine. The article discusses the broader context of Western military aid to Ukraine, including past deliveries of heavy artillery and tanks, and highlights the ongoing debate over the necessity and impact of providing fighter jets.

Poland will deliver four Soviet-made MiG-29 fighter jets to Ukraine, marking the first time a NATO ally has provided jets to Ukraine. This move increases pressure on other NATO allies to follow suit. The delivery, announced by Polish President Andrzej Duda, is seen as a symbolic gesture rather than a game-changer on the battlefield. The United States, while supportive of Poland's decision, has reiterated its refusal to send F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine. Ukrainian officials continue to appeal for modern combat aircraft to bolster their defense against Russian forces. Poland's decision is part of a broader effort to support Ukraine, with other countries like Slovakia also considering similar actions.

Poland will deliver four Soviet-made MiG-29 fighter jets to Ukraine, marking the first time a NATO ally has provided jets to Ukraine. This move increases pressure on other NATO allies to follow suit. The delivery is seen as a symbolic gesture rather than a game-changer on the battlefield. The United States has reiterated its refusal to send F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine. Ukrainian officials continue to advocate for modern combat aircraft, urging NATO to provide more support. Poland's decision is part of a broader effort to bolster Ukraine's military capabilities amid ongoing conflict with Russia.

Poland will deliver four Soviet-made MiG-29 fighter jets to Ukraine, marking the first time a NATO ally has provided jets to Ukraine. This move pressures other NATO allies to follow suit. The U.S. has refused to send F-16 jets, focusing instead on other military support. Poland's decision is seen as symbolic, potentially encouraging further support from other nations. Ukrainian officials continue to advocate for modern combat aircraft to bolster their defense against Russia. The article highlights the ongoing international discussions and decisions regarding military aid to Ukraine.

A new city brings a new geography, with new streets to learn. The author reflects on how walking helps her understand the layout and essence of her neighborhood and other cities, connecting it to different lives and experiences.

A personal narrative recounting a breakfast experience at a guesthouse in the Alps, highlighting the presence of a group of women in fluorescent hiking gear with an '80s vibe.

The Tallahassee Police Department faces backlash for training with ex-Navy SEAL Eddie Gallagher, an accused war criminal, and for releasing a controversial recruitment video showcasing militarized equipment. Community members and groups, including the Tallahassee Community Action Committee, demand the termination of Police Chief Lawrence Revell, citing ongoing issues of police brutality and lack of transparency. The Citizen's Police Review Board is set to review the department's training policies, while city commissioners express concerns over the department's militarized appearance and actions against protesters.

Ukrainian troops are withdrawing from Severodonetsk as Russian forces advance, marking a significant but not decisive moment in the ongoing conflict. The city has been heavily bombarded, leading to substantial casualties and destruction. Despite the loss, Ukrainian forces have succeeded in slowing down Russian advances, with analysts predicting a potential stall in Russian operations. The U.S. continues to support Ukraine with military aid, while resistance operations persist in Russian-held areas. The situation remains fluid, with key cities in the Donbas region still under threat.

Ukrainian troops are withdrawing from Severodonetsk as Russian forces advance, marking a significant moment in the ongoing conflict. The city, a strategic point in the Luhansk region, has been heavily bombarded and largely under Russian control. Despite the withdrawal, analysts suggest this will not be a major turning point, as Ukrainian forces have succeeded in slowing down and degrading Russian advances. The Institute for the Study of War predicts that Russian operations may stall, allowing Ukraine to launch counteroffensives. The conflict continues to impact civilians, with calls for evacuation and ongoing resistance operations in Russian-held areas. The U.S. has announced additional military aid to support Ukraine's defense.

Marine Le Pen's far-right party remains influential, but questions about its credibility persist. Emmanuel Macron faces significant challenges as his party fails to secure a parliamentary majority for the first time in 20 years. A left-wing surge, led by Jean-Luc Mélenchon, threatens to hobble Macron's presidency, with exclusive polling indicating that an alliance of the left could deny him a majority. As parliamentary elections loom, a significant portion of voters express a desire to see Macron forced into compromise.

A Ukrainian court sentenced two Russian soldiers to 11.5 years in prison for war crimes, marking the second such verdict during the ongoing conflict. Ukraine's chief prosecutor announced the inclusion of Estonia, Latvia, and Slovakia in a multinational investigation team to hold Russia accountable. The convicted soldiers, Alexander Bobikin and Alexander Ivanov, were found guilty of shelling civilian sites in the Kharkiv region. The article also discusses the broader efforts to investigate war crimes, involving international cooperation and the International Criminal Court's largest-ever deployment. Concerns about the fairness and speed of the trials were raised by legal experts. Additionally, a Russian service member charged with rape will be tried in absentia in Ukraine.

A Ukrainian court sentenced two Russian soldiers to 11.5 years in prison for war crimes, marking the second such verdict during the ongoing conflict. The soldiers, Alexander Bobikin and Alexander Ivanov, were found guilty of shelling civilian sites in the Kharkiv region. Ukraine's chief prosecutor announced the inclusion of Estonia, Latvia, and Slovakia in a multinational investigation team to hold Russia accountable. The International Criminal Court and Eurojust are coordinating efforts to gather and share evidence. Concerns about the fairness and speed of the trials have been raised by legal experts. Additionally, a Russian service member will be tried in absentia for rape and murder.

A Ukrainian court sentenced Russian soldier Vadim Shishimarin to life in prison for war crimes, specifically the premeditated murder of 62-year-old Oleksandr Shelipov in the Sumy region during the early days of the Russian invasion. Shishimarin, who pleaded guilty, claimed he was following orders. The case is the first of over 13,000 war crimes investigations to reach a verdict in Ukraine. Ukrainian Prosecutor General Iryna Venediktova emphasized the commitment to holding soldiers accountable. The trial has raised concerns about potential reciprocal trials by Russia and the adherence to due process. Ukraine is cooperating with international courts, including the International Criminal Court, and receiving international support in its ongoing conflict with Russia.

Ukraine's prosecutor general announced the trial of Vadim Shishimarin, a 21-year-old Russian soldier, marking the first war crime trial of a Russian service member in the ongoing conflict. Shishimarin is accused of killing an unarmed civilian in the Sumy region. Ukrainian authorities are actively investigating alleged war crimes by Russian forces, despite challenges in holding senior officials accountable during the war. The trial underscores Ukraine's commitment to addressing violations of international law, with potential involvement from the International Criminal Court.

As the last civilians were evacuated from Mariupol's Azovstal steel plant, Ukrainian fighters vowed to continue their resistance against Russian forces. Despite being under constant shelling, the fighters, part of the Azov Regiment, emphasized their commitment to fight until the end. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky acknowledged the difficulty of diplomatic efforts to free the fighters and medics. The article highlights the dire situation in Mariupol, the strategic importance of the steel plant, and the ongoing humanitarian crisis.

As the last civilians were evacuated from Mariupol's Azovstal steel plant, Ukrainian fighters vowed to continue their resistance against Russian forces. Capt. Sviatoslav Palamar and Lt. Illia Samoilenko of the Azov Regiment emphasized their determination to fight despite being besieged and called for more aggressive international support. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky mentioned ongoing diplomatic efforts to evacuate the fighters and medics. The article highlights the dire situation in Mariupol, the fighters' resolve, and the broader implications of the conflict.

Ukrainian fighters in Mariupol's Azovstal steel plant vow to continue their resistance against Russian forces despite being besieged and facing constant attacks. The fighters, part of the Azov Regiment, express feelings of abandonment by the international community and call for more aggressive support. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is working on diplomatic efforts to evacuate the fighters and secure humanitarian corridors. The situation remains dire as Russia aims to capture the plant to gain full control over Mariupol.

Civilians have been evacuated from Mariupol's Azovstal steel plant, where Ukrainian fighters, including the Azov Regiment, continue to hold out against Russian forces. Deputy Commander Sviatoslav 'Kalina' Palamar and Lieutenant Illia Samoilenko, via a Zoom conference, stated their intention to fight to the end. Ukrainian President Zelensky is attempting diplomatic efforts to free the fighters and secure humanitarian corridors. Russian forces aim to capture the plant to control Mariupol and establish a land bridge to Crimea. The fighters fear mistreatment and death if captured, and Ukraine is preparing to evacuate the wounded and medics.

Russia is preparing Mariupol for a Victory Day parade on May 9, despite ongoing conflict and destruction in the city. Ukrainian officials claim that Russian forces are forcing residents to clear debris and bodies in exchange for food. The article highlights the dire situation in Mariupol, with Ukrainian soldiers expressing fears of being paraded as prisoners. The Kremlin's narrative of establishing peace contrasts sharply with the grim reality on the ground. The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe has labeled the Mariupol theatre bombing as a likely war crime.

Russian forces are urgently cleaning Mariupol for a Victory Day parade, while Ukrainian officials accuse them of preparing a grotesque propaganda event. Ukrainian soldiers in Azovstal steel plant express fears of being paraded in cages. The Kremlin denies breaking into the plant, but Ukrainian commanders praise their soldiers' resistance. The Mariupol theatre bombing is highlighted as a war crime by the OSCE. The situation remains dire with civilians trapped, and Russian forces are accused of forcing residents to clear debris in exchange for food.

Russian forces are preparing Mariupol for a Victory Day parade on May 9, despite ongoing conflict and significant destruction in the city. Ukrainian officials accuse Russia of planning to parade captured Ukrainian soldiers in a grotesque display. The article highlights the dire conditions in Mariupol, including forced labor for food and the aftermath of the deadly theatre bombing. Ukrainian resistance continues in the Azovstal steel plant, with reports of intense battles and efforts to evacuate civilians. The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe has deemed the theatre bombing a likely war crime.

The Kunsthalle Praha, a new art institution in Prague, opened in the former Zenger Electrical Substation with the exhibition 'Kinetismus: 100 Years of Electricity in Art.' The exhibition, featuring works by artists like Marcel Duchamp and contemporary collective teamLab, explores the impact of electricity on art. The Kunsthalle, founded by Czech entrepreneur Petr Pudil and his wife Pavlina, aims to enrich the local art scene and provide a platform for Central European artists. The Pudil Family Foundation, promoting Czech and international modern and contemporary art, funded the project. The institution seeks to fill the gap in publicly accessible postwar and contemporary art, which is often privately owned in the region.

The resurgence of the Waitergate scandal, involving secretly recorded conversations of top Polish officials, threatens the ruling Civic Platform party's hold on power ahead of the October parliamentary elections. The scandal has led to the resignation of several senior officials and added to the party's internal tensions following the presidential election loss to Andrzej Duda of the Law and Justice party. Radoslaw Sikorski, a prominent figure in the scandal, stepped down as speaker of parliament. Civic Platform faces additional challenges from the rising popularity of anti-establishment figure Pawel Kukiz. The political landscape in Poland is marked by voter dissatisfaction with the ruling party and a shift towards opposition parties.

In the lead-up to Poland's May 10 presidential election, foreign policy, particularly relations with Russia and the conflict in Ukraine, has taken center stage. Incumbent President Bronislaw Komorowski and his main rival, Andrzej Duda, both advocate for a hardline stance against Russia, though they differ on the specifics of achieving this. Komorowski emphasizes Poland's integration with European allies and strengthening NATO's eastern flank, while Duda calls for a more independent foreign policy and regional leadership. Minor candidates, including Magdalena Ogórek and Adam Jarubas, propose more conciliatory approaches towards Russia but lack significant support. The election's timing, coinciding with World War II commemorations, may bolster Komorowski's security credentials, though a runoff with Duda remains likely.

Andriy Sadovyi, the mayor of Lviv, and his Samopomich (Self-Reliance) party have emerged as significant players in Ukraine's political landscape following the parliamentary elections. The party, which advocates for deep reforms and closer ties with the European Union, secured nearly 11 percent of the vote, positioning itself as a key member of the new coalition government. Despite its success, the party faces challenges, including skepticism about its lack of a single leader and potential internal divisions. Sadovyi's future role remains uncertain as he continues to serve as mayor of Lviv while speculation grows about his potential presidential ambitions.

Donald Tusk, Poland's prime minister, has been appointed as the president of the European Council amid escalating conflict in Ukraine. His appointment, supported by leaders like Angela Merkel and David Cameron, is seen as a significant move for Poland and the EU. Federica Mogherini, known for her soft stance towards Russia, was chosen as the EU's foreign-policy chief, raising concerns about the EU's stance on Ukraine. The article highlights the symbolic importance of Tusk's appointment, the challenges he faces, and the potential impact on Polish politics. It also discusses the broader geopolitical implications, including the EU's response to Russian aggression and the internal dynamics within the EU.

Displaced people from eastern Ukraine and Crimea are finding refuge in Lviv, a city known for its strong Ukrainian national identity. The influx of Russian-speaking IDPs has led to social tensions, with some locals resenting their presence while others see it as an opportunity to break down stereotypes. The conflict in the east has resulted in over 117,000 IDPs across Ukraine, with Lviv hosting a smaller number compared to other cities. Despite the hospitality shown by many, there is a growing debate about whether male IDPs should be sent to fight in the east. Local activists and organizations are working to support the newcomers, but resources are becoming strained. The situation remains complex as Lviv prepares for the new school year, emphasizing unity and patriotism in the face of ongoing conflict.

Volgograd, Russia experienced two suicide bombings in late December 2013, killing 34 people ahead of the Sochi Winter Olympics. No group claimed responsibility, but suspicion fell on the Caucasus Emirate, whose leader Doku Umarov had called for disruptions to the Olympics. Security was increased in Volgograd, a city with historical significance and located away from the heavily guarded Sochi. The attacks have raised concerns about the safety of the Olympics, with some world leaders already planning to skip the event due to human rights issues. Russian President Vladimir Putin has been criticized for his long-standing but unfulfilled promise to end terrorism. The situation in the North Caucasus remains unstable, and there are fears of further attacks.

Ukraine's new laws aimed at criminalizing anti-government demonstrations have sparked intense clashes between protesters and riot police in Kiev. The legislation, which restricts freedoms of assembly and labels NGOs receiving foreign funds as 'foreign agents', has been criticized by opposition leaders and international observers as dictatorial and repressive. The violence escalated during a rally, with injuries on both sides and multiple detentions. The White House has condemned the Ukrainian government's refusal to listen to the people and is considering sanctions.

Two suicide bombings in Volgograd, Russia, have raised concerns about the security of the upcoming Winter Olympics in Sochi. The attacks, which killed 34 people, are suspected to be linked to Islamist militants from the North Caucasus. Russian President Vladimir Putin has vowed to continue the fight against terrorism, but critics argue that his long-standing promises have not been fulfilled. The bombings have intensified fears about the safety of the Olympics, with some international athletes expressing doubts about participating. The situation has also highlighted ongoing instability in regions like Chechnya, Ingushetia, and Dagestan.

In Kiev, 15,000 pro-government supporters rallied to show support for President Viktor Yanukovych, amidst claims that many were paid to attend. Opposition leaders met with Yanukovych without success, and a student leader at the talks was exposed as a fraud. The EU suspended talks with Ukraine over an unsigned trade deal, while Yanukovych plans to meet with Putin in Russia. Despite this, the Euromaidan protests continue, with 200,000 people singing the national anthem in a display of unity.

Pro-EU protesters in Kiev toppled a statue of Lenin, symbolizing their opposition to the pro-Russian government led by Viktor Yanukovych. The incident has raised concerns about potential government crackdowns. Prominent figures like Ruslana and Yulia Tymoshenko's daughter, Yevhenia, have shown support for the protests. The Ukrainian security services have launched a criminal investigation into opposition leaders, adding tension to the already volatile situation.

Pro-EU, anti-Russia protesters in Kiev toppled a statue of Lenin, symbolizing their dissent against the current government led by Viktor Yanukovych. The event raised concerns about potential government crackdowns. The protests followed a meeting between Yanukovych and Vladimir Putin, sparking fears of Ukraine joining the Russia-led Customs Union. Demonstrators, including notable figures like Ruslana and Yulia Tymoshenko's daughter, gathered in large numbers, although estimates of the crowd size varied. The Ukrainian security services launched a criminal investigation into opposition politicians, adding tension to the already volatile situation.

The protests in Kiev have escalated into violence after President Viktor Yanukovych refused to sign an EU integration deal, opting instead for closer ties with Russia. Riot police clashed with demonstrators, resulting in numerous injuries. The protests, driven by a desire for EU membership, have seen significant turnout and have led to the occupation of government buildings. The situation remains tense, with calls for the government's resignation and hopes for further defections from Yanukovych's party.

The article details the escalation of protests in Kiev, Ukraine, following President Viktor Yanukovych's refusal to sign an EU integration deal. The protests, initially peaceful, turned violent as riot police clashed with demonstrators. The article highlights the involvement of provocateurs, the role of social media, and the political ramifications, including calls for government resignation and defections within Yanukovych's party. The sentiment towards Yanukovych and the Ukrainian government is largely negative, while the EU and opposition figures are portrayed more neutrally.