Alcohol consumption in Europe has seen a gradual decline over the past few decades, with significant variations across different countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the OECD highlight the health risks associated with alcohol and the effectiveness of policies aimed at reducing consumption. Despite a general decrease, some countries like Latvia have seen an increase in alcohol consumption. Gender and education levels also play a role in drinking habits, with men and those with higher education levels more likely to engage in heavy episodic drinking. The article emphasizes that no level of alcohol consumption is safe for health.

European cities compete to be top financial centres, with London leading in Europe and second globally in the Global Financial Centres Index. Geneva joins London in the top 10, while Frankfurt overtakes Paris as the EU's financial capital. Germany has five cities in the top 50, the most in Europe. The rankings show a clear divide between Western Europe and Eastern Europe/Central Asia, with all top European financial hubs in the Western group. The US and China also have strong showings. Factors contributing to a city's financial competitiveness include regulatory environment, economic freedom, low corruption, and positive reputation.

Fenerbahçe, despite losing 1-0 to Union Saint-Gilloise in the second leg of the UEFA Europa Conference League round of 16, advanced to the quarter-finals due to their 3-0 victory in the first leg in Belgium.

The gender pay gap remains significant in Europe, with women earning on average 12.7% less than men in 2022. The disparity varies across countries, with Estonia showing the highest gap at 21.3% and Luxembourg the lowest at -0.7%. The European Union aims to reduce this gap, and while progress has been made, it is slow. Factors contributing to the gap include sectoral segregation, part-time work, and the glass ceiling. Women are more educated but less employed than men, and the pay gap is more pronounced in the private sector. Efforts to address these issues continue, but challenges remain.

The gender pay gap remains significant in Europe, with women earning on average 12.7% less per hour than men in 2022. The gap varies widely across countries, with Estonia having the highest at 21.3% and Luxembourg the lowest at -0.7%. The European Commission aims to reduce this disparity, and while progress has been made, it is slow. Factors contributing to the gap include occupational segregation, pay discrimination, unequal share of unpaid work, and the glass ceiling. Women are generally more educated but less employed than men, and the gap is more pronounced in the private sector.

Fenerbahçe secured a significant advantage for the UEFA Europa Conference League quarter-finals with goals from Michy Batshuayi, Jayden Oosterwolde, and Dusan Tadic. The return match will be held in Istanbul on March 14. Despite potential penalties for fan misconduct, Fenerbahçe remains Turkey's sole representative in Europe. Coach İsmail Kartal praised the team's organized play, while Union Saint-Gilloise's coach Alexander Blessin expressed limited optimism for the return match.

The gender pay gap remains significant in Europe, with women earning on average 87.3 euros for every 100 euros earned by men, a gap of 12.7% in the EU in 2022. The gap varies across the EU and EFTA countries, with Estonia having the highest at 21.3%. Luxembourg is the only country with a negative gap, indicating women earn slightly more than men. The European Commission aims to reduce this disparity, which has seen a slow decrease of 3.7 percentage points in the EU from 2012 to 2022. The gap is wider in the private sector, with Czechia and Germany having the largest disparities. Factors contributing to the pay gap include sectoral segregation, salary discrimination, unequal distribution of unpaid work, and the glass ceiling effect. Despite higher education levels, women's employment rates are lower than men's across the EU.

Inflation in the EU has been steadily decreasing since its peak of 11.5% in October 2022, reaching 3.1% in January 2024. The Eurozone's inflation rate was 2.8% in January 2024, still above the European Central Bank's target of 2%. Romania recorded the highest inflation rate in the EU at 7.3%, while Denmark and Italy had the lowest at 0.9%. Inflation rates in candidate countries, particularly Turkey, remain significantly higher. The article highlights the varying inflation rates across EU countries and the factors influencing these changes, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Two-thirds of the world's most prosperous countries are in Europe, but income inequality is prevalent across the continent. Western and Nordic countries have the highest disposable incomes, while Southern and Eastern states have the lowest. The average disposable income in the EU ranges from 9,671 EPA in Bulgaria to 33,214 EPA in Luxembourg. Nordic countries generally exceed the EU average but do not top the list. Among the EU's most populous countries, Germany and France have above-average incomes, while Italy and Spain fall below. Candidate countries for EU membership have the lowest incomes, with Albania at the bottom. Income inequality is more pronounced when measured in euros, with Luxembourg having the highest and Bulgaria the lowest. Over the past five years, Romania saw the highest percentage increase in disposable income, while Turkey experienced a decline.

Two-thirds of the world's richest countries are in Europe, but income inequalities are prevalent. Median disposable income varies significantly across European countries, with higher levels in Western and Nordic countries and lower levels in Southern and Eastern states. The median disposable income in the EU ranged from 9,671 SPA in Bulgaria to 33,214 SPA in Luxembourg in 2022. Nordic countries exceed the EU average but do not top the list. The four most populous EU countries show varied income levels, with Germany and France above the EU average, while Italy and Spain are below. Candidate countries for EU membership have the lowest median incomes. Income inequality is stark when measured in euros, with Luxembourg having the highest and Bulgaria the lowest median disposable income. Over the past five years, several countries have seen significant increases in median disposable income, except for Turkey, which experienced a decline.

The 2023 Legatum Prosperity Index reveals that two-thirds of the world's most prosperous countries are in Europe, yet the continent experiences significant income inequality. Median disposable income, adjusted for purchasing power standard (PPS), varies widely across Europe, with the highest levels in western and Nordic countries and lower levels in southern and eastern states. In 2022, median disposable income ranged from 9,671 PPS in Bulgaria to 33,214 PPS in Luxembourg, with the EU average at 18,706 PPS. EU candidate countries have the lowest median disposable incomes, with Albania at the bottom. Income inequality appears more pronounced when considering income in euros, with a range from €5,378 in Bulgaria to €45,310 in Luxembourg. Over the past five years, several countries have seen significant increases in median disposable income, with Romania recording the highest rise at 101%, while Turkey's median disposable income fell by 27%.

Alcohol consumption in Europe has been declining since the 2000s, with the EU seeing a 23% decrease from 1980 to 2020. Despite this, the WHO European Region still has the highest per capita alcohol consumption globally. Significant decreases in consumption were observed in countries like Ireland, Lithuania, Spain, and Greece, while increases were noted in Latvia, Bulgaria, Malta, Romania, and Poland. Heavy episodic drinking is more prevalent among men and those with higher education levels. The WHO and OECD highlight that no level of alcohol consumption is safe and that policies to limit consumption are often hampered by poor implementation and limited resources.

The World Health Organization warns that no level of alcohol consumption is safe for health, highlighting the increased risk of cancer. Despite this, alcohol consumption in Europe has been declining, albeit at a slower rate since the 2000s. The EU saw a 23% decrease in alcohol consumption per person from 1980 to 2020. The WHO European Region, including 53 countries, experienced a 21% reduction from 2000 to 2020. However, this region still has the highest alcohol consumption globally. National variations exist, with significant decreases in countries like Ireland and Lithuania, while Latvia saw the highest increase. Policies to limit alcohol consumption face challenges in implementation and resource allocation. Gender and education levels also influence drinking patterns, with men and higher-educated individuals more likely to engage in heavy episodic drinking.

Higher education in Europe involves significant costs, including tuition fees and living expenses, leading to substantial student debt. The value of a university degree is debated, with varying opinions on whether it is worth the financial burden. Tuition fees and financial support systems differ widely across Europe, with some countries offering free education while others charge high fees. The UK has the highest average student debt, with England leading in loan amounts. Employment rates and salaries for university graduates are generally higher than for non-graduates, though the financial benefits vary by country. Nordic countries show lower earning gaps between education levels, indicating less financial disparity based on education.

Obesity is a growing challenge in Europe, with one in six European citizens considered obese and over half of EU adults overweight. The condition is linked to increased risk of chronic diseases and reduces life expectancy by nearly three years on average in the EU. Recent estimates attribute over 1.2 million deaths annually to overweight and obesity in the WHO's European region. The highest overweight rates are in Croatia and Malta, while the lowest are in Italy and France. Obesity rates have risen in the EU over the past two decades, with social-economic status, gender, age, and education level influencing these rates. The OECD report highlights urbanization, sedentary behaviors, and the availability of high-energy foods as contributing factors, with socially disadvantaged groups being particularly at risk.

Obesity is a growing public health issue in Europe, with one in six EU citizens classified as obese and over half of adults overweight. The prevalence of obesity varies significantly across countries, with Croatia and Malta having the highest rates of overweight adults. Socioeconomic status, gender, age, and education level are key factors influencing obesity rates. The OECD and WHO reports highlight the complex, multifactorial nature of obesity, driven by behavioral and environmental factors, and emphasize the need for multifaceted interventions to address the epidemic.

Obesity is a growing public health issue in Europe, with one in six EU citizens classified as obese and over half of adults overweight. The prevalence of obesity varies significantly across countries, with Croatia and Malta having the highest rates of overweight adults, while Italy and France have the lowest. The issue is linked to socioeconomic status, gender, age, and education level, with lower socioeconomic groups and men more likely to be overweight. The rise in obesity is attributed to factors such as urbanization, sedentary lifestyles, and the availability of high-calorie foods. Addressing this complex issue requires multifaceted interventions.

Obesity is becoming an increasingly serious problem in Europe, diagnosed in one in six EU residents, with over half of the continent's adults overweight. It poses a public health challenge by increasing the risk of chronic diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, coronary heart disease, and certain cancers. According to the OECD report 'Health at a Glance: Europe 2020', overweight and obesity reduce life expectancy by nearly three years on average in the EU. WHO estimates attribute over 1.2 million deaths annually in the European region to overweight and obesity. The prevalence of obesity has risen over the last two decades, with significant variations across countries, genders, age groups, and education levels. The highest rates of adult overweight are in Croatia and Malta, while the lowest are in Italy and France. The OECD report highlights behavioral and environmental factors driving obesity, such as urbanization, sedentary lifestyles, and the availability of high-calorie foods, with disadvantaged social groups being particularly at risk.

Teacher salaries in Europe have decreased in real terms over the past six years, with strikes for better pay and working conditions ongoing and set to continue into 2024. The average annual gross salaries for lower secondary teachers range from €8,160 in Bosnia and Herzegovina to €71,184 in Germany, with significant disparities across the continent. Salaries adjusted for purchasing power standard (PPS) still show wide gaps, with Germany at the top. In 11 EU countries, teacher salaries exceed the GDP per capita, while in 10 they are lower. Real-term salary decreases have been observed in several countries, with Bulgaria seeing a significant increase. Teacher satisfaction with salaries is low, and the profession is not highly valued by society, leading to regrets about becoming a teacher. The shortage of qualified teachers is a growing concern, exacerbated by factors such as COVID-19 and the integration of Ukrainian children into EU schools.

In 2022, households in the European Union saved about 12.7% of their income, a decrease from the previous year. Eurostat's research on household saving behavior in the eurozone indicates that Europeans primarily save for precautionary reasons and retirement. Germany, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, and France lead in savings rates, while Greece and Poland have negative savings rates, indicating spending beyond earnings. The average gross savings per capita in the EU was 2,723 euros, with significant variations among countries. During the COVID-19 pandemic, savings rates increased due to limited consumer spending opportunities and economic uncertainty, but 2022 figures suggest a return to pre-pandemic levels. Income levels, demographic factors, and crisis-related uncertainties explain the differences in savings rates across EU countries.

In 2022, households in the European Union saved approximately 12.7% of their income, a decrease from 2021. The highest household savings rates were observed in Germany, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, and France, while Greece and Poland had negative savings rates. The average per capita household savings in the EU was 2,723 euros, with significant variations across countries. The COVID-19 pandemic led to a temporary increase in savings rates due to restricted spending opportunities. Factors such as income levels, age dependency, and economic uncertainty significantly influence savings behavior across different European countries.

In 2022, European Union households saved about 12.7% of their disposable income, a decrease from 2021. The study 'Household Saving Behavior in the Euro Area' by Julia Le Blanc et al. (2016) highlights precautionary saving as the most common reason across Eurozone countries, followed by retirement saving. Eurostat data shows the highest household saving rates in Germany (19.9%) and Switzerland (23.4%, non-EU), with Greece at -4%. The COVID-19 pandemic saw a significant increase in savings rates due to restricted spending opportunities and economic uncertainty, with the EU savings rate reaching 18.5% in 2020 and 16.4% in 2021. The 2022 data suggests a return to pre-pandemic levels. Differences in savings rates across EU countries can be attributed to income levels, age dependency, public finance health, and inflation.

In 2022, EU households saved approximately 12.7% of their disposable income, a decrease from 2021. Germany had the highest saving rate at 19.9%, while Greece had a negative rate, indicating spending beyond income. Household saving rates varied across Europe, with no strong regional divide, but richer countries generally saved more. The COVID-19 pandemic saw a spike in savings due to restricted consumption opportunities and economic uncertainty. Factors such as income levels, age dependency, government finances, and inflation influence saving rates, with a European Commission paper highlighting persistent differences among EU countries.

Food inflation in the Eurozone has remained high despite a slowdown from the peak of 10.6% in October 2022 to 2.9% in October 2023. Real food inflation, which is food inflation minus general inflation, was 4.6% in the Eurozone and 4% in the EU in October 2023, placing significant pressure on low-income households. Inflation rates in the EU soared in 2022 to levels not seen in the previous four decades. Food and non-alcoholic beverage inflation followed a similar trend, peaking at 19.2% in March 2023. The annual real food inflation rate exceeded general inflation in 33 out of 37 European countries in October 2023, with Belgium, the Netherlands, Greece, and Spain experiencing the highest rates. Energy costs, supply reductions of key agricultural inputs like fertilizers and feeds, and disruptions from the war in Ukraine are cited as the main drivers of food inflation. Households in candidate countries for EU membership, such as Albania and Bosnia and Herzegovina, spend a higher percentage of their consumption expenditure on food, making real food inflation particularly impactful for them.

Inflation in the Eurozone has slowed from a peak of 10.6% in October 2022 to 2.9% in October 2023, but food inflation remains high, significantly impacting low-income households. Real food inflation in the Eurozone was 4.6% in October 2023, with Belgium experiencing the highest rate at 10.9%. Factors driving food inflation include rising energy prices and supply chain disruptions due to the war in Ukraine. The World Bank highlights that Europe and Central Asia are among the most affected regions. Countries with higher household spending on food, such as Romania and Lithuania, are particularly vulnerable.

The foundations of democracy are weakening globally, with half of the countries experiencing democratic backsliding in areas like the rule of law and freedom of expression, according to a new report by the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA). Europe remains the region with the best democratic performance, though declines have been noted in established democracies such as the UK, Austria, and the Netherlands. The report categorizes countries into four main areas of democratic performance: Rule of Law, Rights, Representation, and Participation. Nordic countries lead in democratic performance, while Hungary, Poland, and Romania show the poorest results within the EU. Azerbaijan, Belarus, Russia, and Turkey are classified as non-democratic. Significant declines in democratic indicators have been observed in several European countries over the past five years, highlighting the need for constant vigilance to safeguard democracy.

The International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA) reports a global decline in democratic standards, with significant erosion in the rule of law and freedom of speech in many countries. Europe, while still leading in democratic indicators, shows a decline in several nations, including the UK, Austria, and the Netherlands. Scandinavian countries like Denmark, Norway, and Finland rank highest in democratic measures, while Hungary, Poland, and Romania show the poorest performance within the EU. The report highlights the importance of both formal and informal checks and balances in maintaining democratic integrity amidst economic crises, climate change, and geopolitical conflicts.

Electricity and gas prices in Europe, which surged following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, are now stabilizing after peaking in early 2023. The average electricity price for households in the EU rose from 25.3 euros to 28.9 euros per 100 kWh, while gas prices increased from 8.6 euros to 11.9 euros per 100 kWh. The Netherlands recorded the highest electricity and gas prices, with significant increases attributed to the removal of tax relief measures and increased household electricity taxes. Conversely, countries like Spain and Denmark saw decreases in electricity prices. The EU's energy imports from Russia have dramatically decreased, replaced by renewable energy and gas from Norway and the US. The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas may also impact future energy supplies and prices in Europe.

Electricity and gas prices in Europe, which surged after the Russian invasion of Ukraine, are now stabilizing. Despite pre-tax price decreases, consumer prices remain high due to the withdrawal of support measures. In the first half of 2023, EU household electricity prices rose to €28.9 per 100 kWh, and gas prices to €11.9 per 100 kWh. The Netherlands recorded the highest electricity and gas prices, while Turkey had the lowest electricity prices among EU candidate countries. The EU has significantly reduced its energy imports from Russia, replacing them with renewables and gas from Norway and the US.

In 2020, the average EU citizen generated 4.8 tons of waste, with only 38% being recycled. Households contributed just 9.4% of the total waste, while construction and mining were major contributors. Germany and France produced a third of the EU's waste. Waste treatment in the EU is divided into recovery and disposal, with recycling rates varying significantly across countries. Italy had the highest recycling rate at 83.2%, while Romania had the lowest at 5.2%. The differences in recycling rates are largely due to the economic activities generating waste, with mining being a significant factor in countries like Finland and Sweden.

Healthcare expenditure increased during the COVID-19 pandemic but dropped in 2022. The OECD's 'Health at a Glance 2023' report highlights significant disparities in nurses' salaries across Europe, with Luxembourg paying the highest and Turkey the lowest in 2021. Despite nominal increases, real-term salaries fell in countries like the UK due to inflation and public sector pay policies. Strikes and demands for better pay and conditions have been prevalent, particularly in the UK and Italy. The report also notes that purchasing power parity reduces but does not eliminate these disparities, with Central and Eastern European countries generally offering the lowest remuneration.

Obesity is a growing public health challenge in Europe, with one in six EU citizens classified as obese and over half of adults overweight. The condition increases the risk of chronic diseases and reduces life expectancy. Croatia and Malta have the highest proportion of overweight adults, while Italy and France have the lowest. The prevalence of obesity has risen over the past two decades, with significant variations across gender, age, and education levels. Socioeconomic status and lifestyle factors contribute to the differences in obesity rates. The OECD and WHO highlight the need for multifaceted interventions to address the obesity epidemic.

Healthcare expenditure increased during the COVID-19 pandemic but dropped in 2022. The OECD's 'Health at a Glance 2023' report highlights the ongoing debate about whether nurses are paid adequately, especially in light of the cost-of-living crisis. In 2021, nurses' salaries varied significantly across Europe, with Luxembourg paying the highest and Turkey the lowest. The report also notes that nurses' salaries increased in real terms in most countries leading up to the pandemic but fell in five countries, including the UK. Recent years have seen numerous nurse strikes across Europe, demanding better pay and working conditions. The report also discusses the disparities in nurses' salaries when adjusted for purchasing power parity, with Luxembourg still leading and Lithuania and Latvia at the bottom. The UK is highlighted for its nurses earning less than the average wage, and the report notes that nurses' salaries in the UK fell in real terms between 2010 and 2019.

Increasing the use of public transport and minimizing car dependency are crucial for Europe to meet its climate and energy-saving goals. Switzerland, Austria, France, and Sweden have the highest rail usage. In 2019, Switzerland led with 2,378 passenger-kilometers per capita, followed by Austria and France. The EU average was 927 km. By 2021, these figures dropped due to the pandemic. Luxembourg had the highest international rail travel distance per capita in 2021. Switzerland also led in the number of train trips per capita in 2019. The EU's internal passenger transport by train was 8% in 2019, dropping to 6% in 2021. Switzerland had the highest rail network density in 2021. The European Commission advocates for reduced individual energy consumption, highlighting the efficiency of public transport over private cars.

Active mobility, such as cycling, is a key method for saving energy and improving physical and mental health. Cycling is particularly prevalent in countries like the Netherlands and Denmark, where it is a major mode of transport. Surveys reveal varying cycling habits across Europe, with the Netherlands leading in daily cycling rates. Mediterranean countries generally show lower cycling rates compared to Nordic countries. Copenhagen and Amsterdam are highlighted as top cities for cycling, with significant portions of their populations using bicycles as their primary mode of transport. The Copenhagenize Index ranks cities globally based on their efforts to promote cycling, with European cities dominating the top spots.

Cycling and walking are promoted in the European Union for their economic, environmental, and health benefits. The Netherlands and Denmark lead in cycling usage, with 41% and 21% of people using bicycles as their primary mode of transport, respectively. Mediterranean countries like Portugal and Cyprus have the lowest cycling rates. Regular cycling is most common in Northern Europe, with the Netherlands, Finland, and Denmark having the highest weekly cycling rates. Half of the EU respondents never cycle, with the highest non-cycling rates in Malta and Cyprus. Copenhagen and Amsterdam are the top cities for cycling infrastructure, according to the Copenhagenize Index.

Active mobility, particularly cycling, is promoted by the European Commission for its energy-saving and health benefits. The Netherlands and Denmark lead in bicycle use, with significant shares of their populations using bikes as their main mode of transport. Surveys reveal that Nordic countries generally have higher cycling rates compared to Mediterranean countries. The Copenhagenize Index highlights European cities like Copenhagen, Amsterdam, and Utrecht as top bicycle-friendly cities globally. The European Cyclists’ Federation emphasizes the need for careful comparison of data across different cities.

Active mobility, such as walking and cycling, is promoted by the European Commission for its energy-saving and health benefits. The use of bicycles is particularly high in the Netherlands and Denmark, with significant portions of the population using them as their primary mode of transport. Surveys reveal that Nordic countries generally have higher bicycle usage rates compared to Mediterranean countries. The Eurobarometer survey indicates that while the Netherlands leads in daily bicycle use, countries like Malta and Cyprus have very low rates. The European Cyclists' Federation highlights Copenhagen and Amsterdam as leading cities for bicycle transport, with Europe dominating the global rankings for bicycle-friendly cities.

Scientists have confirmed that the summer of 2023 was the hottest on record, with global temperatures significantly above average. Samantha Burgess from the Copernicus Climate Change Service highlights the alarming trends, including unprecedented ocean temperatures and the impact of El Niño. Europe is warming faster than the global average, with significant temperature increases observed in countries like France and Greece. The article underscores the urgent need for emission reductions to prevent further extreme weather events and long-term climate impacts.

The summer of 2023 was confirmed to be the hottest ever recorded, with an average temperature of 16.77°C, 0.66°C above the seasonal average. Samantha Burgess from the Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) expressed concern over the unprecedented ocean heat and the potential impact of the El Niño event. Europe is warming faster than the global average, with temperatures 2.2°C above pre-industrial levels. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reported significant temperature increases across European countries, with France experiencing the highest land temperature rise in 2022. The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres warned that the world has entered the 'global boiling era,' and scientists predict that the 1.5°C global warming threshold could be consistently surpassed by the early 2030s.

Many European children return to school this week, with some facing hunger. In 2022, a quarter of EU children were at risk of poverty or social exclusion. Free or subsidized school meals can help ensure proper nutrition, but availability varies across the EU. Countries like Finland, Sweden, and Estonia offer universal free meals, while others target vulnerable children or specific schools. The UK provides free meals based on household income. The article highlights the importance of school meals in combating child poverty and social exclusion, with significant variations in provision across Europe.

Paris has become the first European city to ban rented electric scooters due to rising injuries and fatalities, following a public vote. The UK has also imposed restrictions on e-scooters on trains and platforms. Data indicates an increase in e-scooter-related accidents and deaths across Europe, with the UK and France reporting significant numbers. Regulations vary by country, with differences in speed limits, age restrictions, insurance requirements, and helmet usage. The OECD finds no difference in fatality risk between e-scooters and bicycles, but highlights the higher risk of death in crashes involving heavier vehicles.

In 2022, inflation rates in the EU reached levels not seen in the previous four decades, with a peak of 11.5% in October. Despite a subsequent decline, inflation remained at 6.4% in June 2023. The COVID-19 crisis and the Russian invasion of Ukraine significantly impacted prices, leading to a cost of living crisis. Real hourly wages decreased in 22 out of 24 European countries in the first quarter of 2023, with only Belgium and the Netherlands experiencing increases. Hungary experienced the most significant drop at 15.6%. Real wages also fell in the UK, France, and Germany. The OECD report highlighted that low-wage sectors fared relatively better, with Greece as a notable example where real wages in low-paying industries increased by 5.1%.

In 2022, the EU experienced inflation rates not seen in the previous four decades, peaking at 11.5% in October and remaining at 6.4% in June 2023. The COVID-19 pandemic and Russia's invasion of Ukraine significantly impacted prices. Real hourly wages decreased in 22 out of 24 European countries studied in the first quarter of 2023, with Hungary experiencing the most significant drop of 15.6%. Only Belgium and the Netherlands saw real wage growth. The OECD reports that real wages are generally below pre-pandemic levels despite nominal wage increases. Low-paid sectors have fared relatively better, with Greece being an example where real wages in low-paid industries increased by 5.1%.

In 2022, the EU experienced unprecedented inflation rates, peaking at 11.5% in October, with a slight decrease to 6.4% by June 2023. The COVID-19 crisis and Russia's invasion of Ukraine significantly impacted prices, leading to a cost-of-living crisis. Despite nominal wage increases in almost all EU member states, real hourly wages decreased in 22 out of 24 European countries when accounting for inflation. Only Belgium and the Netherlands saw real wage growth. Hungary, Latvia, Czechia, and Sweden experienced the most significant declines. Real wages also fell in the UK, France, and Germany. The OECD report highlighted that since the COVID-19 pandemic, real wages are below pre-pandemic levels in most countries, and low-paying industries have fared relatively better than high-pay industries in terms of real wage changes.

Germany plans to ban smoking in cars with children and pregnant women, led by Health Minister Karl Lauterbach. Smoking regulations vary across Europe, with only three EU countries having complete bans and many others enforcing partial bans, particularly when children are present. The Smoke Free Partnership highlights the need for stronger tobacco control policies, noting that 60% of European countries still allow smoking in cars. The article emphasizes the dangers of passive smoking, especially for children and pregnant women, and calls for better protection through legislation.

The UK has begun housing asylum seekers on a barge, a practice also seen in Belgium, the Netherlands, France, Estonia, and Scotland, primarily for Ukrainians displaced by the Russian invasion. Ireland is considering similar measures. Asylum applications in the UK have dramatically increased in 2022, with the highest numbers in nearly two decades. Germany, France, Spain, and Austria are the main EU destinations for asylum seekers, with Syrians and Afghans being the largest groups of applicants.

Teachers across Europe have been striking for better pay and working conditions, with significant disparities in salaries across the continent. In England, over 40,000 teachers left the profession last year, and strikes are planned for July. Hungary saw thousands march for higher salaries and reforms, with some teachers fired for walkouts. France, Germany, and other countries face teacher shortages, with Germany expecting a shortfall of 25,000 by 2025. Salaries vary widely, with Luxembourg paying the highest and Bulgaria the lowest among EU countries. The cost of living crisis exacerbates the issue of stagnant wages. The ratio of teacher salaries to minimum wage is highest in Germany and lowest in Poland. Over the last decade, Lithuania saw the largest increase in teacher salaries, while Turkey's decreased. Despite high government expenditure on education in some countries, teacher satisfaction with pay remains low, and pupil-teacher ratios vary significantly across the EU.

Teachers across Europe are feeling undervalued, leading to strikes and protests in countries like England and Hungary. Data reveals significant disparities in teacher salaries, with Luxembourg and Germany offering the highest starting salaries, while countries like Bulgaria and Poland offer the lowest. The cost of living crisis exacerbates the issue, with many teachers earning close to the minimum wage. Despite some countries increasing teacher salaries over the past decade, overall satisfaction remains low. The shortage of teachers is a growing concern, with thousands of vacancies reported in Germany, Poland, and France.

New data from Eurostat reveals significant variations in average weekly working hours across European countries. In 2022, the average working hours ranged from 32.4 hours in the Netherlands to 39.7 hours in Greece and Romania. Turkey had the longest working weeks at 42.9 hours in 2020. The study highlights differences between full-time and part-time employment, with full-time hours ranging from 37.4 to 41.3 hours in the EU. Gender disparities are also noted, with men generally working longer hours than women. The proportion of employees working 49 hours or more per week varies, with Greece and Turkey having the highest percentages.

The article discusses the ongoing struggle of homes and businesses in the EU to manage their energy bills despite a fall in energy prices since the record highs following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. It provides detailed comparisons of electricity and natural gas prices across various EU countries, highlighting the disparities in costs. The article also examines the level of government support provided to mitigate the impact of the energy crisis, with Germany providing the most significant support in terms of total amount and as a percentage of GDP. The data is sourced from the Household Energy Price Index (HEPI) and a Brussels-based think tank, Bruegel. The article emphasizes the importance of such support in the context of the overall cost-of-living crisis affecting European households and businesses.

The article discusses the prevalence of strikes in Europe, highlighting recent industrial actions in France, the UK, Spain, and Germany. It examines the cultural significance of strikes in European working life and explores the frequency of such events across different countries. The European Trade Union Institute's data is used to compare the average annual working days lost due to strikes per 1,000 employees, showing variations and trends over the past two decades. The article notes a general decline in the number of days lost to strikes, with significant decreases in countries like Spain and Turkey. It also touches on the importance of the right to strike and collective bargaining, citing the International Labour Organization's data on collective bargaining coverage rates. The article concludes by mentioning the challenges in comparing international data on strikes due to varying definitions and measurements.

The article by Servet Yanatma discusses the EU's shift in energy imports following the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The EU has imposed sanctions on Russian energy and reduced its dependency, with a significant drop in Russian gas supplies. Eurostat data shows a decrease in Russian energy imports from 24.4% of the EU's gross available energy in 2020 to a much lower percentage in 2022. The shortfall has been compensated by increased imports of LNG from the US, which more than doubled, and other sources like Norway and Algeria. The EU has also seen a significant growth in renewable energy. The European Commission is satisfied with the progress, which has helped ensure energy security and reduce reliance on Russian fossil fuels. The sanctions are also financially impacting Russia, with daily losses exceeding €160 million due to the EU's oil embargo and the G7's price cap. The article emphasizes the need for continued diversification of energy sources and investment in renewables to counteract Russia's energy leverage.

The article discusses the impact of inflation on real minimum wages across the European Union and Turkey. In 2022, inflation rates in the EU soared to the highest levels in four decades, leading to a cost-of-living crisis, especially for low-income households. Despite nominal increases in minimum wages in many EU countries, the real minimum wages, which account for inflation, have decreased. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has highlighted the need for regular revisions of minimum wages to protect the standard of living for low-paid workers. The article provides detailed statistics on the minimum wages in EU member states, both in nominal terms and adjusted for purchasing power standard (PPS), and notes that real minimum wages have fallen in most of Europe over the past year, with the highest decline in Latvia at 18.2 percent. The OECD has called for regular updates to minimum wages to ensure they remain effective during times of high inflation.