12 November 2018 Last weekend's gathering of world leaders to commemorate the centenary of the World War I armistice was also an occasion to celebrate 70 years of European peace and stability. It was also appropriate to recognise the European Union's contribution to this extended period of prosperity. However, there existed also a sense of [...]
9 July 2019 Has the impetus behind European reform, so evident following French President Macron's victory last year, now stalled? The recent Italian election result illustrates that the appeal of populist remedies to Europe's ills has not receded, and Euro-scepticism remains widespread. The challenge remains for Europe's mainstream national leaders, along with the EU institutions [...]
3 June 2017 The rift between the Trump administration and the other Group of 7 nations (also G20) became increasingly evident following the gathering in Taormina, Sicily. The new American president’s approach to global trade and climate change (among other key issues) represents a break from the prevailing international policy consensus. Reflecting growing frustration, German [...]
An excellent discussion of the fiscal, labour market, and competitiveness issues which will confront the new resident of the Elysee Palace. France IMF June 2016