The trouble with asking the people: Thoughts on EU referenda past and present

The decision by British voters to leave the EU comes with a certain sense of déjà vu. It is reminiscent of the French decision to reject the European Constitution back in 2005. Both polls have important similarities - but also key differences.
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Why Are Germans So Sympathetic to Russia?

The German public may not trust Vladimir Putin personally, but they are readily buying the Russian argument that Moscow feels encircled and endangered by the West.

Why the British are Right on the Next Commission President

The difficult process of choosing the new president of the European Commission, undertaken at today’s meeting of the European Council, reveals a split emerging throughout Europe.

At Vilnius, the EU Must Reconcile Norms with Realism

It seems the build-up to Vilnius has, in other words, shown the limits of the EU’s normative foreign policy in its Eastern neighborhood. The EU’s engagement in Ukraine is critical, but its abilities to foster reform have been damaged.

Keeping Ukraine’s Door Open to Europe

Last week’s decision by Yanukovich was not a surprise. Ukraine’s failure to meet European requirements for an association agreement should not be seen as the end of the line.

Cheated French warn Britain against EU divorce... and beef with jam

The French press reacted to British Prime Minister David Cameron’s EU referendum speech on Wednesday with an array of metaphors including tales of divorce, murder and religious sacrifice. Who would have thought European politics could be so exciting?
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What Did We Learn in Chicago?

If nothing else, this past weekend’s gathering in Chicago of NATO Allies and partners demonstrated the type of political resolve and commitment that has been the core of the Alliance’s ability to keep its members secure for over 60 years.

Why Europe’s Votes are not a Rejection of Austerity

A “throw-the-bums-out” sentiment tends to predominate in countries with growing unemployment and shrinking economies. This is why voter volatility and anxiety might produce a change in personnel, but not always a dramatic shift in economic policy.