Adrian Ardelean is a journalist based in Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
Broadcast working experience 15yrs
BBC Worldservice
Europa FM Radio, Romania
Digi24 TV, Romania

TikTok CEO summoned to the European Parliament for explanations. ANCOM Vice President calls for the app's ban in Romania

28 Nov 2024  |  Europa Liberă România  |  Romanian  |  Digital Services Act

The article discusses the controversy surrounding TikTok's alleged influence on the Romanian presidential elections, with accusations of algorithm manipulation favoring candidate Călin Georgescu. ANCOM Vice President Pavel Popescu calls for TikTok's suspension in Romania, while the European Parliament summons TikTok's CEO for explanations. Concerns are raised about TikTok's compliance with the Digital Services Act, and the European Commission has launched an investigation. The article highlights the broader implications of digital platform influence on democratic processes in Europe.

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European Parliament ANCOM Comisia Europeană CNA Expert Forum

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Selin Bucak is a journalist based in London, UK.

Estateguru chief says Estonia law change will boost investing

26 Nov 2024  |  alternativecreditinvestor.com  |  English  |  Estonian Law

Mihkel Stamm, CEO of Estateguru, welcomes recent amendments to Estonia's Income Tax Act and Funded Pensions Act, which aim to encourage investment and improve risk management. The changes allow investments in crowdfunding through investment accounts, which can now be opened via investment firms and payment institutions. These amendments are expected to make Estonia more attractive to investors by enabling tax-free reinvestment of profits from crowdfunding. Stamm highlights the role of Finance Estonia in developing these regulations.

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European Parliament Council Finance Estonia

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Romain Chanson is a journalist based in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Radio - Vidéo - Writing

Belgium Recalls Its Ambassador

27 Jan 2025  |  JeuneAfrique.com  |  French  |  Diplomatic Relations

The Congolese justice system upheld the death penalty for Jean-Jacques Wondo, a Belgian-Congolese military expert involved in reforming the Congolese army, despite his defense's claims of insufficient evidence and pressure from the European Parliament for his immediate release. In response, Belgium has recalled its ambassador.

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Parliament European

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David Chazan is a journalist.

Marine Le Pen criticises ‘unfair treatment’ in embezzlement trial

06 Nov 2024  |  www.thetimes.com  |  English  |  European Politics

Marine Le Pen, facing an embezzlement trial, criticizes the court for what she perceives as unfair treatment, arguing that evidence absolving her was dismissed. She defends the use of parliamentary assistants at National Rally headquarters, asserting they worked on European issues. The trial, which could result in significant fines and imprisonment, is set to conclude on November 27.

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European Parliament National Rally

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Phoebe Cooke is a freelance journalist based in London.

Revealed: The ‘Vested Interests’ on the EU’s Agriculture Committee

11 Dec 2024  |  DeSmog  |  English  |  Lobbying

An investigation coordinated by Le Monde and ARIA, in partnership with Transparency International EU and other European media, reveals conflicts of interest among members of the EU's Agriculture Committee. The report highlights the influence of corporate interests, particularly from the dairy and meat industries, on the committee responsible for shaping the EU's agricultural policies. Key figures such as Asger Christensen and Jessika van Leeuwen are noted for their ties to major agricultural companies, raising concerns about their ability to act independently. The article underscores the potential impact of these conflicts on the EU's Common Agricultural Policy and broader environmental goals, emphasizing the need for transparency and reform to ensure policies serve the public interest.

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European Parliament Bavarian Farmers’ Association Copa-Cogeca

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Robin Forestier-Walker is an award winning foreign correspondent based out of Tbilisi, Georgia. After beginning his career with the BBC in London in 2000, Robin moved first to Almaty in 2008 and began reporting for Al Jazeera English, covering news and current affairs from Bishkek to Budapest, ...

Mass protests across Georgia echo Ukraine in 2014

02 Dec 2024  |  Tortoise  |  English  |  Russia-Georgia Relations

Protests have erupted across Georgia following the government's decision to suspend EU membership talks, echoing Ukraine's 2014 Revolution of Dignity. The population largely supports EU integration, clashing with the Russia-leaning government led by Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze. President Salome Zourabichvili backs the protesters, accusing the ruling Georgian Dream party of election fraud and a constitutional coup. The protests have spread nationwide, with significant resignations from diplomats and civil servants. The government faces increasing pressure as public sentiment strongly favors a European future, while the opposition remains only marginally more popular.

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European Parliament European Union Georgian Dream

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Paolo Gambi is a multi-awarded post-contemporary multimedia artist, poet, performer, journalist and expert of communication. His mission is to bring ‘poetry everywhere’ as his motto states.
He has written more than 30 books
As for practical experience, he had an experience at the Financial Times, ...

Open doors, crucifixes desecrated. The words of the week

16 Nov 2024  |  ilGiornale.it  |  Italian  |  Antisemitism

The article discusses various social and political issues in Italy, including immigration policies, feminism, multiculturalism, political extremism, and freedom of speech. It highlights Lilli Gruber's comments on immigration, Edoardo Leo's views on feminism, and the desecration of crucifixes by children in a multicultural school in Turin. The article also addresses the violent clashes in Bologna, the suspension of Christian Raimo for his attacks on a minister, and the rise of antisemitism. The narrative is critical of left-wing figures and supports right-wing perspectives, particularly in relation to social centers and political extremism.

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European Parliament Social Centers

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Guy Hedgecoe is a journalist based in Madrid, Spain. He covers all news issues, including politics, economics and sport. He is author of 'Freezing Franco: The Battle for Spain's Memory'.

Buoyed by Trump, radical right gathers in Madrid

06 Feb 2025  |  The Irish Times  |  English  |  Donald Trump

European far-right leaders, including Marine Le Pen, Viktor Orban, and Santiago Abascal, are gathering in Madrid under the Patriots for Europe (PfE) banner, inspired by Donald Trump's return to the White House. The PfE, now the third-largest group in the European Parliament, aims to challenge the European People's Party and Socialists, opposing their climate and immigration policies. The event, themed 'Make Europe Great Again,' aligns with Trump's agenda, with some leaders having attended his inauguration. The article highlights the rise of far-right sentiment in Europe, with Vox gaining traction in Spain and Orban maintaining power in Hungary.

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European Parliament Patriots for Europe Vox Fidesz Ano 2011 Freedom Party Chega National Rally League

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As a journalist, I have the privilege of contributing to various media, including Belga, Knack, Apache, Woef, EOS Wetenschap and MO*. I reached a significant personal milestone recently by publishing my first academic paper entitled The Political Salience of Animal Protection in the Netherlands (...

Enough is Enough

15 Nov 2024  |  meta.eeb.org  |  English  |  Environmental Policy

The article discusses the challenges faced by the European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in securing majorities for Commissioner hearings amidst political wrangling in the EU Parliament. It criticizes the Conservative EPP for weakening the EU Deforestation Law and highlights the need for the EU to lead on climate and environmental policy. The article also covers the confirmation hearings of various EU Commissioners, emphasizing the importance of swift action on environmental and geopolitical challenges. Additionally, it criticizes Azerbaijan's hosting of COP 29 and the rushed downgrade of wolf protection status in the EU.

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European Commission EU Parliament EEB EPP UN

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**Available for EU CoronaVirus coverage from home studio**

Dave Keating is an American journalist covering European politics. Having previously covered US politics in Washington, Dave specializes in drawing comparisons between the American federal system and the European Union.

Dave has ...

VDL2 starts Monday. How far to the right will she drift?

27 Nov 2024  |  davekeating.substack.com  |  English  |  European Union

The European Parliament narrowly confirmed Ursula von der Leyen's second Commission, reflecting discomfort with the center-right EPP's overtures to the far right. The confirmation relied on votes from Giorgia Meloni's far-right Brothers of Italy, who were appeased with a Commission vice presidency for Raffaele Fitto. EPP leader Manfred Weber has advocated for cooperation with far-right parties like the ECR, citing their pro-European stance. The article questions whether von der Leyen will maintain a centrist position or drift further right.

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European Commission European Parliament EPP Brothers of Italy ECR

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Brian Maguire is a journalist based in Brussels, Belgium.

Brian Maguire: Short Biography

Brussels-based journalist, producer and broadcaster, Brian Maguire, specialises in European politics and business; producing short documentary films exploring Europe’s competing policy dimensions. He ...

EU politician Zdechovsky emphasizes the importance of the EU-Kazakhstan partnership

28 Nov 2024  |  EURACTIV.de  |  German  |  Energy Cooperation

The European Union is enhancing its strategic partnership with Kazakhstan to improve cooperation in energy, critical materials, connectivity, and agriculture. This partnership supports Kazakhstan's long-term goal of becoming one of the world's most developed nations. Czech EU MP Tomas Zdechovsky emphasized Kazakhstan's importance due to geopolitical shifts, including competition with China and the war in Ukraine. The EU-Kazakhstan relationship has evolved beyond resource-based cooperation to a dynamic strategic partnership, with Kazakhstan playing a key role in trade, transport, and cultural exchange. The EU Parliament hosted a conference to deepen political dialogue and explore new cooperation opportunities. Kazakhstan is a crucial partner for the EU in securing resilient supply chains for critical raw materials and improving transport connectivity. The partnership aims for further growth, benefiting both sides and contributing to regional and global stability.

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EU Parliament European Union Kazakhstan

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British foreign correspondent, published by the Guardian, the Financial Times, Reuters and Vice. Specialise in current affairs, human rights, humanitarian issues, development and sustainable business.

Why the presence of a former Meta lobbyist in the European Parliament is controversial

18 Nov 2024  |  www.wired.it  |  Italian  |  Lobbying

Aura Salla, a former Meta lobbyist, has become a member of the European Parliament, sparking controversy due to her previous role in influencing EU tech regulations. Critics, including Green MEP Alexandra Geese, question whether Salla will prioritize Meta's interests over those of the electorate. Salla, part of the center-right European People's Party, argues her background makes her well-suited to shape EU tech rules, advocating for less restrictive regulations to foster innovation. Concerns persist about her alignment with Meta's agenda, as highlighted by Bram Vranken of Corporate Observatory Europe. Salla emphasizes the need for stable investment environments and suggests existing regulations should be enforced rather than introducing new ones.

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European Parliament Partito popolare europeo Commissione europea LobbyControl Corporate Observatory Europe Noyb

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British journalist, editor, and researcher. Work published in the Guardian, POLITICO Europe, New Statesman, Vice, The Moscow Times, and New Eastern Europe. 

Now primarily in London/Baltics but open to Russia-based commissions with the appropriate arrangements.

The Russian Church — Spreading Putin’s Poison

14 Nov 2024  |  cepa.org  |  English  |  Russian Propaganda

The article discusses the role of the Russian Orthodox Church (ROC) as an ideological extension of Vladimir Putin's regime, complicit in war crimes and promoting Kremlin narratives. It highlights the church's support for the war in Ukraine, its collaboration with Russian state media, and its influence abroad, particularly in the US and Europe. The article calls for Western countries to monitor and counter the ROC's activities to prevent the spread of harmful propaganda. Ukrainian lawmakers have taken steps to sever ties with Russian-linked religious organizations, and the article suggests other states should consider similar measures.

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European Parliament Russian Orthodox Church Kremlin Council of Europe World Russian People’s Council

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I am a Romanian journalist based in Chisinau, Moldova, since 2015. My area of expertise is politics and investigations. However, I wrote features, analysis, interviews and news in English for several foreign media outlets from Europe and Caucasus. I covered also economics and social topics.

Moldova Marks Third Anniversary of EU Bid with Hope and Trepidation

12 Mar 2025  |  Balkan Insight  |  English  |  Russia-Ukraine War

Moldova marks the third anniversary of its EU membership application amidst significant progress and challenges. Since applying alongside Ukraine and Georgia shortly after Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Moldova has advanced in aligning its legislation with EU standards. Deputy Speaker Doina Gherman highlights the country's unexpected European trajectory and the ongoing screening process, with plans to open accession negotiations focusing on fundamental EU values.

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Moldovan Parliament European Union

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Zoran Popovici is a video and photo journalist based in Brussels, Belgium.

Ironing out a Steel Action Plan for a green transition made in Europe

20 Nov 2024  |  EURACTIV.com  |  English  |  Industrial Competitiveness

The European steel industry, a key component of the EU's industrial value chains, faces challenges from global overcapacity, unfair trade practices, and high energy costs. The proposed EU Steel Action Plan aims to address these issues by securing investments in green steel and protecting jobs. A EUROFER conference at the European Parliament will discuss immediate actions and strategic measures needed to maintain Europe's competitive edge in climate-neutral production, coinciding with the new European Commission's commencement and President Ursula von der Leyen's pledge for decisive action.

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European Commission European Parliament European Union EUROFER

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MARIA PSARA is a journalist based in Brussel, Belgium.

Answers to the shortage of skilled labor in the EU

14 Mar 2025  |  gr.euronews.com  |  Greek  |  Workforce Development

The European Union faces a significant shortage of skilled labor, impacting various sectors such as construction, trade, and healthcare. The European Commission and Parliament are addressing this issue, highlighting the mismatch between worker skills and employer needs. Demographic changes and rapid technological advancements exacerbate the problem. The EU has launched initiatives like the Skills Union to enhance training and attract foreign workers. The educational system and businesses play crucial roles in skill development. The EU competes globally for skilled labor, with countries like China and India also seeking talent.

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European Parliament European Commission European Union Egmont Institute Cedefop

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Maire Rowland is a journalist based between Tirana, Albania and Ireland. I have extensive expertise in press freedom and human rights reporting. Published in The Coalition For Women In Journalism, The Sunday Times, Equal Times, Irish Examiner. Freelance member of NUJ UK and Ireland

Turkiye: “Foreign Agent” Law – A Direct Assault on Press Freedom and Civil Society

13 Nov 2024  |  Coalition For Women in Journalism  |  English  |  Legislation

Turkiye's proposed 'Agent of Influence' law, which aims to criminalize activities aligned with foreign interests, poses a significant threat to independent media and civil society. The bill, similar to Russia's foreign agent law, could lead to arbitrary enforcement against journalists and activists. Civil society and international organizations are urged to resist this authoritarian measure, which could severely impact press freedom and democracy in Turkiye and globally.

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European Union Turkish Parliament Turkish Penal Code Turkish Grand National Assembly United Nations

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Jorge Valero is EU correspondent since 2008. He works for Euractiv and for the Spanish national daily El Economista. His articles have been published in numerous national and international media, including The Guardian, European Voice, Rolling Stone, Vanity Fair, Miami Herald, El Comercio, La Razón,...

Von der Leyen’s New EU Team Confirmed as Trump’s Term Awaits

27 Nov 2024  |  news.bloombergtax.com  |  English  |  Trade Relations

Ursula von der Leyen's new team of 26 European Commission commissioners has been confirmed by the European Parliament, set to take office by December 1. The team faces significant challenges, including maintaining Europe's competitiveness and addressing potential reductions in US aid to Ukraine under Donald Trump's administration. Additionally, the EU may need to navigate trade tensions with both Beijing and Washington.

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European Parliament European Commission

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Koen Verhelst is a journalist based in Brussels, covering EU topics for Politico.

He was previously stationed in Riga, covering the Nordics and the Baltics.

Georgians protest as pro-Russian party locks in ex-footballer as president

14 Dec 2024  |  www.politico.eu  |  English  |  Georgia-Russia Relations

Protests erupted in Tbilisi as the pro-Russian Georgian Dream party secured the presidency for ex-footballer Mikheil Kavelashvili through an electoral college, bypassing a public vote. The opposition boycotted the election, citing it as rigged. The EU and other international bodies criticized the process, urging respect for the Georgian people's pro-EU aspirations. The Georgian government, led by Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, faces backlash for withdrawing from EU accession talks and introducing controversial laws, leading to widespread demonstrations and international sanctions.

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European Parliament European Union Georgian Dream

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Cassandra Vinograd is a freelance journalist and producer specializing in conflict, human rights and migration. She previously worked for NBC News, The Associated Press and The Wall Street Journal. Her reporting has taken her throughout Africa, Europe and the Middle East. 

She is HEFAT certified....

Police and Protesters Clash in Georgian Capital

01 Dec 2024  |  www.nytimes.com  |  English  |  European Union

Protests erupted in Tbilisi, Georgia, following the government's decision to delay its European Union accession bid until 2028, sparking four consecutive days of demonstrations. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze's announcement to refuse EU grants further fueled public discontent. Clashes between protesters and police intensified, with the use of water cannons and fireworks, resulting in over 150 arrests and injuries to several police officers. The protests, marked by violence and damage to property, reflect significant opposition to the government's policy shift.

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European Union Georgian Parliament Georgia's Interior Ministry

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Bruno Waterfield is Brussels correspondent for The Times. He has been reporting on European affairs for almost 20 years, first from Westminster and then from the capital of the EU. He reported for the Daily Telegraph from Brussels from 2007 to 2015.

Marine Le Pen was convicted — yet few rulebreaking MEPs end up in court

01 Apr 2025  |  www.thetimes.com  |  English  |  Marine Le Pen

Marine Le Pen's conviction for misusing funds highlights the broader issue of financial misconduct within the European Parliament, where many MEPs settle irregularities internally without public scrutiny. Transparency campaigners criticize the parliament's lax attitude towards managing allowances, calling for stricter oversight. The article also references other high-profile cases, such as Nigel Farage's misspending and the Democratic Movement's embezzlement, suggesting a pattern of selective accountability.

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European Parliament National Front Ukip Democratic Movement Transparency International EU

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Brussels editor at MLex. Available as a broadcast guest.

The case for monolingualism

02 Dec 2024  |  www.theleopard.eu  |  English  |  European Union

The article argues for adopting English as the official language of the European Union, citing historical examples and current inefficiencies in multilingual communication. It highlights the cultural and political benefits of a single language, drawing parallels with the United States and India. The author critiques France's resistance to English and suggests that a monolingual policy could enhance the EU's cohesion and representation on the global stage.

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European Parliament European Commission European Union

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Peter Yeung is a journalist based in Paris, France.

European leaders are failing Muslims, EU Islamophobia chief tells Hyphen

13 Mar 2025  |  Hyphen  |  English  |  Anti-Muslim Hate

Marion Lalisse, the EU's coordinator for combating anti-Muslim hatred, criticizes European leaders for lacking the political will to address rising Islamophobia. Despite existing strategies, the EU has not established a dedicated action plan against anti-Muslim racism, leading to superficial efforts and structural bias. Lalisse highlights the need for a clear definition of Islamophobia and better data gathering. The article discusses the challenges faced by Lalisse, including far-right opposition and insufficient resources, and calls for more political backing and institutional cooperation to effectively tackle anti-Muslim hate in Europe.

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European Parliament European Union European Commission

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Eszter Zalan is a Hungarian journalist working for Brussels-based news portal EUobserver specialising in European politics, focusing on populism and Brexit. Before immersing herself into the "EU bubble", Eszter reported on conflict and war zones from Afghanistan, Iraq, Yemen, Egypt and other places ...

EU Faces Global Challenges: Navigating US Tariff Threats, Russia’s War in Ukraine, and Middle East Strategy

11 Feb 2025  |  Automobilnews News - The first AI News Portal world wide  |  English  |  Middle East Strategy

The European Union is addressing multiple global challenges, including potential US tariffs, Russia's ongoing conflict in Ukraine, and strategies for the Middle East. Discussions in the European Parliament involve key figures like Commissioner Šefčovič and Poland’s Minister for EU Affairs, Adam Szłapka. The EU is considering responses to US trade policies under Donald Trump, who has announced plans for reciprocal tariffs. The EU continues to support Ukraine's NATO aspirations, despite differing views from the US. The article also touches on internal EU discussions about digital services, healthcare, and international justice systems.

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European Parliament European Union International Criminal Court International Court of Justice

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