EU

Hungary’s new Prime Minister Péter Magyar has defended appointing his brother-in-law, Márton Melléthei-Barna, as Minister of Justice amid opposition criticism. Magyar emphasised his administration’s commitment to restoring EU relations and unlocking critical funding while pledging to address past governance issues and improve public services.

A new International Labour Organization study reveals that over 840,000 annual deaths are linked to job strain, including long hours and harassment. The report highlights significant mental health challenges, with nearly one in three European workers experiencing stress or anxiety, exacerbating productivity losses and costing the EU over €100 billion annually.

US President Donald Trump endorsed Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán on Truth Social, praising his stance on migration ahead of the crucial April 12 election. Orbán faces a challenge from Péter Magyar’s Tisza Party, currently leading in polls with 35%.

On 2 February, Israel reopened the Rafah crossing into Gaza, marking progress in the US-brokered ceasefire with Hamas, according to Martin Konečný, director of the European Middle East Project. The reopening follows the return of the last Israeli hostage.

The organisers of the 2026 Winter Olympics have stated the games will be “green,” focusing on infrastructure improvements despite past controversies. The impact on local residents may be significant, as many anticipate lasting benefits from enhanced transportation.

The European Commission plans a new round of sanctions against Russia, including a proposed ban on maritime services for vessels carrying Russian oil, as officials consult G7 partners. This development comes as the war nears its fourth year, impacting energy revenues and sanctions enforcement.

Nearly a quarter of LGBTQ+ citizens in the EU have experienced conversion practices, with 38% of Greek respondents most affected, according to the ILGA Europe report. Helena Dalli, former European Commissioner for Equality, condemned these practices as harmful and grounded in falsehood during a recent Council of Europe debate.

European officials, including Latvia’s Prime Minister Evika Silina, have urged for accelerated negotiations on a free-trade agreement with Gulf nations to diversify trade amid US tariffs and increasing Chinese exports. Talks aim to enhance business ties and energy cooperation.

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