The workings of the EU institutions can seem distant, foreign and boring. Yet so much happens there that shapes our European way of life, whether we realise it or not.

Both the European Commission and the Parliament are addressing the problem of hate crimes. But without a clear definition of what “hate” is, we will not solve the problem, writes Arie de Pater of the European Evangelical Alliance in Brussels.

Only two weeks before the general elections, the Spanish government uses the European Union Presidency to promote gender self-identification across the continent.

Freedom and peace have their roots. They are rooted in virtues of truth and justice. 

Spanish Christian geographer Miguel Wickham analyses the severe drought that is hitting Southern Europe.

After 3 years of doubts, the European Commission finally elects a new Special Envoy for the Promotion of Freedom of Religion or Belief.  

Over 340 million Europeans in 19 countries use the currency today. The creation of a digital euro is among the challenges ahead, which could have “far-reaching implications for societies in the future”, says a Christian analyst.

Some believe that “Europe cannot afford to dismiss energy sources” with low CO₂ emissions, but others warn that the decision of the European Union “is all about information for the capital markets”.

Social media users and the former President of the European Parliament had criticised the document for going against common sense.

The European Commission committed to mobilising at least €100 million to make tests more affordable, while EU countries will not impose additional travel restrictions.

“Parents should ensure that the education of their children is in compliance with their religious and philosophical convictions”, says the EU Commission spokesperson for education, Sonya Gospodinova.

“The current focus on returns will not save the asylum system”, says the European Evangelical Alliance representative in Brussels, Arie de Pater. “It is not just about the economy this time, but about people”.

Last July the EU announced the appointment but the position is still vacant. “Promoting freedom of religion is essential to address global challenges”, 49 MEPs say in a letter to the EU.

An EU report denounces that “Romani people are subject to persistent antigypsyism, a specific form of racism”. The Roma community asks Europe to “take concrete measures”.

In her State of the (European) Union, the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, unfolded an ambitious ‘post-COVID-19’ plan for Europe and beyond.

“The forthcoming appointment shows our determination to ensure the rights of all faiths and beliefs are respected across the world”, says Margaritis Schinas, Vice-President of the European Commission.

The European Evangelical Alliance praises the work of Jan Figel’, who finished his mandate in 2019. “It is important that the EU leads by example and shows that FoRB is a precious human right for all people”.

“Banks and governments do not have to keep money back, but to be proactive and stimulate the market”, says the director of the World Evangelical Alliance Business Coalition.

Once again, the Flemish carnival included insulting depictions of Jews. The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Israel and Members of the European Parliament have expressed deep concerns.

Now the British and European Parliaments will have to back the document.

The Christian Democrat has lead three German government ministries: Family, Health and Defense. Of a Protestant family, she was born in Belgium and has 7 children.

The European Commission unveils a strategy which includes “low and zero emission vehicles and alternative fuels”. Evangelical groups support policies in the line of the Paris Agreement.

Just 20.96% of registered voters cast ballots, less than the 30% needed for the result to be valid.

Hungarian and Italian leaders meet in Milan with the 2019 EU Parliament elections in mind. “There are two sides at the moment in Europe”, Hungarian President Orbán said.

Producers will help cover the costs of clean-up and waste management for items such as food and drinks containers. “Single use plastics are not a smart economic or environmental choice”, says the European Commission.