Headlines

Asylum applications in October 2025

In October 2025, 62,010 first-time asylum applicants (non-EU citizens) applied for international protection in EU countries, marking a 28% decrease compared with October 2024 (86,470) and a 6% increase compared with September 2025 (58 ,495). There were also 14,495 subsequent

Carbon taxes revenue tripled between 2017 and 2023

Between 2017 and 2023, the revenue from carbon dioxide related taxes in the EU increased strongly, growing from €15 billion to €51 billion. Carbon (dioxide) taxes are levied on the carbon content of fossil fuels. Their share in the overall energy taxes increased from 6.0% in

Sailing into the unknown...that's Belgian Quentin Debois

A Belgian sailor has set sail in an ambitious bid to enter the record books, readily admitting that Lady Luck will play a part in him achieving his target. Quentin Debois, who is aged 38 and from Liege, aims to cover 7,200 km to the island of San Salvador in the Bahamas in less

Welfare reform continues to hamper Labour

Of all the political debates which Labour have embroiled themselves in since coming into government, welfare reform is one that will continue to rear its ugly head until it is tackled directly. The question that will always be one step behind these conversations is who has the

Syrian business elites look to reintegration

The reintegration of Syrian business elites into the country’s formal economic life has long been one of the most sensitive questions facing post-war governance. That question moved sharply back into the spotlight following the announcement by Ahmed al-Sharaa‘s government, led

All eyes turn to upcoming Bangladesh elections

In Bangladesh, all eyes are turning to the upcoming elections and referendum set for the 12th of February. Since the ousting of Sheikh Hasina over 18 months ago, the Interim Government has been working towards internationally accepted elections, saying it needed time to ensure