Radio Schuman

Greg Laurie, Euronews' French correspondent, dives into the complexities of Franco-German relations under the potential leadership of Friedrich Merz. He discusses how personal connections could reignite collaboration between Germany and France, especially on EU strategic goals and defense. The impact of Germany's military support for Ukraine and a possible pivot on nuclear energy are explored. Laurie also contrasts Merz's views with Olaf Scholz's, highlighting how this leadership shift might reshape Brussels dynamics.

Despite the Christian Democrat Union (CDU) victory in the election, forming Germany’s next coalition government will be challenging. What can we expect from the outcome? What alliances will Friedrich Merz, CDU leader, pursue? And can Germany reclaim the influence it has lost?Radio Schuman gathered reactions to the election results, and presents in-depth analysis of Germany’s future, gleaned from Euronews' special Germany Decides panel hosted by Meabh McMahon last night. The discussion featured former European Council President Charles Michel, former Greek Prime Minister George Papandreou, and Euronews Editorial Director Claus StrunzRadio Schuman is hosted and produced by Maïa de la Baume, with journalist and production assistant Eleonora Vasques, audio editing by David Brodheim. Music by Alexandre Jas. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Antigone Davis, Meta's VP and Head of Global Safety, discusses innovative strategies for protecting minors online. She emphasizes the importance of age verification and parental controls to create a safer environment. Davis highlights ongoing efforts to prevent bullying, particularly for LGBTQ+ youth, and the need for standardized regulations across the EU. Additionally, she addresses legislative initiatives aimed at combating online child sexual abuse, advocating for proactive measures to safeguard young users in the digital landscape.

Is the far-right party Alternative for Germany (AfD) poised to rule the country?The party has its sights set on it, despite a political firewall cordoning it off from power, lawmaker belonging to the party René Aust has told Euronews reporter Vincenzo Genovese in an interview.This is despite all mainstream parties in Germany ruling out any cooperation with AfD after Sunday’s ballot, meaning its prospects of entering a governing coalition are non-existent.Trump’s billionaire aide Elon Musk has also outspokenly voiced support for AfD and its leader Alice Weidel. His attempts to wade into German politics have outraged mainstream parties.Radio Schuman also discusses today’s gathering of G20 foreign ministers in Johannesburg, South Africa, where the EU’s top diplomat Kaja Kallas will be in the company of Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov.We also have a look at where young Europeans get their news.Today's Radio Schuman is hosted and produced by Mared Gwyn Jones, with journalist and production assistant Eleonora Vasques, audio editing by Johan Breton. Music by Alexandre Jas. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Abriel Schieffelers, a humanitarian advocacy officer at Caritas Europe, discusses the alarming trend of European countries slashing foreign aid amid far-right political movements. He highlights how nations like Sweden and Finland redirect funds away from humanitarian efforts towards deportation initiatives. Schieffelers elaborates on the EU’s shift toward investments that prioritize its own agenda, stressing its detrimental impact on global humanitarian responses. The conversation also touches on the critical humanitarian needs in Ukraine and the risks posed by funding freezes.

How will NATO allies increase defence spending beyond 2%?Today Radio Schuman dives into European defence together with Euronews reporter Paula Soler.European NATO and EU countries agree on increasing defence spending beyond 2% of GDP but disagree on how to achieve it. Some advocate joint borrowing for large defence projects, while others believe planning should remain in the hands of individual nations.At the Munich Security Conference, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen proposed exempting defence spending from EU fiscal limits. EU finance ministers are debating this alongside other options, such as joint bonds, repurposing post-pandemic funds, boosting European Investment Bank lending and creating a re-armament bank.Radio Schuman also discusses today's meeting in Saudi Arabia between Russia and the US, and spotlights the expansion of so-called 'micro-forests' in cities.Radio Schuman is hosted and produced by Maïa de la Baume, with journalist and production assistant Eleonora Vasques, audio editing by David Brodheim. Music by Alexandre Jas. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dmitry Kuleba, the former Ukrainian Foreign Minister, shares his passionate insights on the urgent need for Europe's stance on Ukraine amidst shifting global politics. He highlights the risks of inadequate security guarantees and the emotional complexities Ukrainians face regarding peace terms. Kuleba also emphasizes the importance of Europe asserting its interests at international forums. With the influence of Trump looming large, he stresses that unity and decisive action are crucial for Europe's future in tackling challenges posed by the ongoing conflict.

In this engaging discussion, Christophe Gomart, former head of Military Intelligence in France and current vice-chair of the European Parliament’s committee on security and defense, emphasizes the critical need for Europe's role in Ukraine peace talks. He argues that given Europe’s substantial contributions to the crisis, it cannot afford to be sidelined. The conversation also touches on the implications of defense spending proposals and Europe’s strategic shift toward rebuilding its defense capabilities amidst growing global tensions.

Marta Iraola Irribarren, Euronews health expert and the journalist who uncovered the story, discusses the fallout from the U.S. suspension of USAID funding. She highlights how European NGOs are grappling with the funding shortfall, risking critical aid for vulnerable populations. The conversation delves into the EU’s potential role in filling this gap and the urgent need for alternative solutions. Additionally, they touch on the shifting landscape of humanitarian aid in Europe and the unexpected rise of 'quiet holidays' amid current global challenges.

Julia Poliscanova leads the charge on electric vehicles at Transport & Environment in Brussels. In this insightful discussion, she dives into the obstacles European carmakers face with stringent EU emissions regulations. The conversation tackles the electric vehicle dilemma, highlighting stagnant sales due to high prices and limited models. Poliscanova emphasizes the urgency of complying with CO2 targets and the need for affordable options. She also discusses the impact of upcoming regulatory initiatives and transatlantic trade tensions, framing the future of the automotive industry.