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- Inside Europe: The Inside Take on European Affairs
(27mb)
Sat, 29 Nov 2008 07:05:00 +0000
On this week?s programme: Bulgaria makes EU history ? for all the wrong reasons--Turkey and Armenia move towards normalizing relations--Poles afraid of new arms race?Italy discovers facebook--Commercialism and the Palace of Versailles--Greenland moves closer to independence--More autonomy for Corfu--Spike Lee?s new wartime Italy film and the world?s first commercial wave farm in Portugal.
Tune in to Inside Europe on the radio or sign up for the Inside Europe podcast! You can also download the programme from the website.
Bulgaria makes EU history ? for all the wrong reasonsFor the first time in the history of the European Union, Brussels has cut regional and structural aid to a member state.
The European Commission announced this week that it will strip Bulgaria of 220 million Euros in funds for failing to curb corruption ? and there are threats of more action to come.
Reporter: Sabina Casagrande
Turkey and Armenia move towards normalizing relations
Efforts to normalize relations between Turkey and Armenia, took another step forward this week with the visit of the Armenian foreign minister to Istanbul.
His visit was officially to attend a meeting of the Black Sea cooperation committee. But the trip also gave him an opportunity to meet his Turkish counterpart. There have been no diplomatic relations between the two countries since 1993, but over the last months there have been growing bi-lateral efforts to normalize relations.
Reporter: Dorian Jones
Italy's Facebook frenzyItaly is better known for its ancient monuments than its modern digital networks. The country lags behind most of Europe in internet usage. But is facebook frenzy in Italy affecting productivity?
Facebook has captivated Italians in the last few months - to such a degree that some workplaces are blocking the site from office computers.
Reporter: Nancy Greenleese
Commercialism and the Palace of VersaillesA restrospective of the works of the pop artist Jeff Koons is currently on display inside the Palace of Versailles in France. And the choice of venue has raised eyebrows there.
Some critics have called it a sullying of French culture. Others claim that Versailles is selling out to commercialism. Reporter: Eleanor Beardsley
Greenland moves closer to independenceThis week Greenland moved one step closer to independence from Denmark. In a referendum on Tuesday, Greenlanders voted overwhelmingly in favour of more autonomy.
This Arctic island has had Home Rule since 1979 but under the new law it will control its mineral and oil resources. And it will eventually take charge of additional fields of responsibility from Denmark, including justice and legal affairs. Greenlandic will become the official language. Per Berthlesen is Foreign Minister with Greenland?s Home Rule government. Helen Seeney asked him what the mood was like in the capital Nuuk following the referendum.
Interview: Helen Seeney/Per Berthlesen
Calls for more autonomy on the Greek island of CorfuA bid for more autonomy has been taken up by business and community leaders on the Greek island of Corfu. But do they have a chance?
They want to emulate Spanish provinces like Catalonia which have strong regional differences and exert control over their own destiny. The Corfiots claim disproportionately heavy taxation by the central government is threatening the tourist industry on which the island depends.
Reporter: Malcolm Brabant
Does Spike Lee?s new film about wartime Italy distort the facts?A new film by American director Spike Lee, called "The Miracle at St Anna", has aroused the anger of Italian wartime resistance survivors.
They say it distorts the truth by suggesting that a real-life Nazi massacre of villagers in Tuscany took place because of the actions of a resistance fighter. The film has also focussed attention on the role of Nazi war criminals still at large in Germany. "The Miracle at St Anna", which is based on an American novel, tells the story of black US soldiers who fought in Italy and depicts the relationship they struck with local people. The director, whose previous films include "Malcolm X" and "Do the Right Thing", says he wanted to counter Hollywood's traditional portrayal of white war heroes.
Reporter: Alasdair Sandford
The world?s first commercial wave farmOver the last decade, Spain and Portugal have invested heavily in renewable energy, with generous subsidies from both country's governments.
As a result, companies in these countries are world leaders in exploiting solar, wind and other energy sources. Jerome Socolovsky went to see the world's first commercial wave farm in northern Portugal.
Poles concerned about new arms raceRussia successfully test-fired its new RS-24 intercontinental ballistic missile on Wednesday. It?s designed to counter air defence systems like the controversial US anti-missile shield. Preparations for installing that shield are already underway in Poland. And there?s growing unease there about Russia?s reaction to its deployment.
Russian President Dmitry Medvedev has warned that Moscow may place more missiles in its enclave of Kaliningrad in response to the shield. Kaliningrad borders Poland and many Poles there fear a new arms race is developing
Reporter: Hardy Graupner
- Inside Europe: The Inside Take on European Affairs (27mb)
Sat, 22 Nov 2008 07:05:00 +0000
Norwegian company deals with upsurge of piracy--French racing town hit hard by economic downturn--Czechs alarmed by right-wing violence--Unlikely film school gives movie hopefuls chance--Iceland hits hard times--Business owners join anti-Mafia scheme--The Breakaway Regions series ? this week the Basque region--EU and NGO?s challenge forced marriage and the French chanson singer Soha.
Tune in to Inside Europe on the radio or sign up for the Inside Europe podcast! You can also download the programme from the website.
Norwegian shipping company attempts to deal with upsurge of piracyThere has been a big upsurge in piracy off the coast of East Africa. Recently, an huge oil tanker owned by a Saudi firm was captured by Somalia-based hijackers far out to sea. It worries officials, since it seems the pirates are becoming more daring, and more organised.
The Norwegian firm Odfjell has decided to take action. The company, which has about 95 ships and often transports chemicals, has ordered its vessels to avoid the waters off the Horn of Africa. It could add thousands of kilometres to a voyage from the Middle East to Europe or North America. Kyle James talked with Terje Storend, president of Odfjell.
Interview: Kyle James/ Terje Storend
Renowned French racing town hit hard by economic downturnLe Mans population is wondering about the town?s future and its very identity.
European carmakers have been hit hard by the financial crisis. A slowing economy has forced auto manufacturers in Germany and France to slash output, as stocks far outpace demand. In the French car racing town of Le Mans, production was halted at the Renault factory a few weeks ago. The assembly line is now moving again, but another shutdown is planned for December.
Reporter: Eleanor Beardsley
Czechs alarmed by outbreak of right-wing violenceThe Czech prime minister Mirek Topolanek added his support this week to calls to ban the far-right Workers Party, following the worst violence in the country for eight years.
The clashes erupted in the town of Litvinov on Monday, when some 600 neo-Nazi skinheads tried to march on a housing estate inhabited by members of the Roma minority.
Reporter: Rob Cameron
Unlikely film school gives people the chance to make it in the moviesParamount Pictures?MGM?Warner Brothers?Universal ? they?re among the biggest film studios in Hollywood and have been producing cinema magic for over a century now. That magic is attractive, and many people aspire to work in the movies. But only a very small number of people manage to break into the industry.
And if you live in a rural community, far from media centers like LA, Berlin or London, it can be even tougher to get in. However, an organisation in the north of England is giving people the practical skills they need to make that entry.
Reporter: Neale Lytollis
Prosperous Iceland hits hard timesRecently, the bottom fell out of the Icelanding banking sector and the value of the nation?s currency, the Krona, has plummeted. It?s now at the beginning of what looks like a long downturn. But the country is getting some help.
The International Monetary Fund has put together a 2.1 billion dollar rescue package. And Four Nordic countries are lending their neighbour another 2.5 billion dollars. Despite the lifeline, there?s a lot of economic worry in the island nation and Icelanders are rethinking their relationship with the EU. Iceland is not a member, and there has traditionally been strong opposition in the country to becoming one.
Interview: Kyle James/ Baldur Thorhallson, Iceland-EU relations specialist at the University of Iceland
Business owners joins forces in anti-Mafia schemeMost business owners in Sicily pay an extra bill each month. It?s from the Mafia, which demands protection money. But this may change.
Owners who?ve refused to pay have had their families threatened, watched their businesses go up in smoke, even been murdered. But business owners are now joining forces to create their own organised, anti-crime family.
Reporter: Nancy Greenleese
Europe and NGO?s challenge forced marriageStarting on November 27th, foreigners applying for marriage visas for the UK will have to be at least 21 years old. The British government says the move is part of an attempt to crack down on forced marriage.
That?s a marriage in which one or more of the parties ? usually the woman -- is married without his or her consent. Forced marriage is is a growing problem across Europe and NGO?s are trying to raise the pressure on governments to fight what they say is a widespread human rights abuse.
Reporter: Dorian Jones
Meet the French singer SohaHer debut album was 14 years in the making - Soha is a young French singer from Marseille who now makes her home in Paris.
Soha?s parents are from Algeria and the singer says she inherited from them her sense of independence and a certain nomadic spirit. That might help explain how her multilingual album takes in rhythms ranging from Cuban son and French chanson to jazz, reggae and soul.
Reporter: Thomas Marzahl - Inside Europe: The Inside Take on European Affairs (27mb)
Sat, 15 Nov 2008 07:05:00 +0000
This week: The EU prepares to take on pirates off the Somalian coast -- Has EUFOR fulfilled its Bosnian peacekeeping mission? -- The Great War through the eyes of the Avant Garde --The Polish exodus from the UK -- The Swiss army goes fishing for an unlikely catch -- Swedes head to Norway to work -- Slovaks prefer to live in Austria and the ethnic group that wants a country to call home.
Tune in to Inside Europe on the radio or sign up for the Inside Europe podcast! You can also download the programme from the website.
EU prepares to take on pirates off the coast of SomaliaThe EU?s so-called Operation Atalanta is the bloc?s first-ever naval mission and will be led by Britain. It will include contributions from 8 to 10 countries and will replace a NATO led force in the area next month. But how effective will it be?
The European Union is launching a security operation off the coast of Somalia to combat growing acts of piracy and to help protect aid ships. These waters constitute a key maritime route and pirates in the area are responsible for nearly a third of all reported attacks on ships, often using violence and taking hostages. Bjoern Seibert is a Visiting Fellow at the Royal United Services Institute in London from the MIT.
Interview: Helen Seeney/ Bjoern Seibert
Has EUFOR fulfilled its peacekeeping mission in Bosnia?Militarily speaking the job has been done, and some defence ministers argue it?s time to put an end to EUFOR. Nevertheless, the EU has postponed any decision on the future of EUFOR until early next year. But has it really succeeded in what it set out to do?
An important issue on the agenda of EU defence and foreign affairs ministers this week was Bosnia Herzegovina. The European Union is concerned about the country?s stability, and the bloc reiterated its will to play a greater role in this Balkan country.
Four years ago the European Union launched the military operation EUFOR Althea in Bosnia Herzegovina. Its mission was to contribute to a safe and secure environment, and make sure violence between Serbs, Croats and Bosnian Muslims doesn?t resume.Report Barbara Gruber
The Great War through the eyes of the Avant GardeNovember 11th was Remembrance Day and commemoration ceremonies took place all over the world to mark ninety-years since the end of World War One.
To coincide with the anniversary, the Thyssen-Bornemisza gallery in Madrid opened an exhibition called ?The Avant-Garde and the Great War?. The display brings together a range of works from before, during and after the war, by artists including Wassily Kandinsky, Marc Chagall and Paul Klee. The paintings show the transformation in European culture that occurred as a result of what was then the world?s bloodiest ever conflict.
The Swiss army goes fishing for an unlikely catch
Report Danny WoodSwitzerland maintained a neutral stance during the two World Wars, despite being surrounded by warring parties.
But neutrality doesn?t mean having no weapons or all the problems that can go with them. Imogen Foulkes has been finding out more.
The Polish exodus from the UKUp to one million Poles flooded the British Isles when the UK and Ireland decided to allow in migrant workers from the new EU member states back in 2004. But four years on and the Poles are heading home.
Britain is facing a financial crisis fuelled by the global credit crunch while the Polish economy has gathered pace, partly owing to the money sent home by migrant workers. These two factors have helped turn the tide of Polish job migration. It?s estimated that around 50 per cent of Poles working in the UK and Ireland have now left.
Reporter Rafal Kiepuszewski
Norway attracts Swedish workersNorwegian employers are more than happy to give the Swedes jobs.
It is not only Poles who are now heading to Norway to find work. Young Swedes are also finding that their non-EU neighbour offers good pay and opportunities.
Report Lars Bevanger
Slovaks prefer to live in AustriaWhen the Schengen border-free zone expanded last year to include much of former communist eastern Europe, one of the least enthusiastic EU members was Austria, where fear of foreigners has long coloured the national debate.
Recent elections in Austria saw a sharp rise in support for far-right parties, which have campaigned heavily on a xenophobic, anti-immigrant platform. But in the very eastern tip of the country, along the River Danube that forms the border with Slovakia, the reality of Schengen is changing attitudes and lives.
Report Rob Cameron
The ethnic group that wants a country to call homeThe Turkish government has relaxed its restrictions on the use of the Kurdish language in public, but for many Kurds, one of the main sources of news and entertainment is ROJ TV - a satellite television station headquartered in Denmark. So why have Turkish authorities in the past wanted Denmark to close the station?
Turkey is home to more than half the world?s Kurdish population, who for decades have been seeking an independent homeland. The media is often a virtual battleground of breakaway regions or for a people seeking greater autonomy.
Turkish authorities have in the past pressed Denmark to close the station, but it was Germany that took steps to ban ROJ TV in June. The German government argues ROJ TV is a propaganda mouthpiece for the Kurdistan Worker's Party - the PKK. The PKK is blacklisted as a terrorist organisation by the European Union and the United States. Guy Degen visited their main production studios just outside Brussels. - Inside Europe: The Inside Take on European Affairs (27mb)
Sat, 8 Nov 2008 07:05:00 +0000
What a President Barack Obama will mean for relations between the US and Europe -- Is the credit crunch changing France's food culture -- 'The golf resort that "trumped" environmental concerns -- Are Polish universities the easiest way into Europe for young Africans and Asians? -- And, unearthing the hidden secrets of Florence!
Tune in to Inside Europe on the radio or sign up for the Inside Europe podcast! You can also download the program from the website.What a President Barack Obama will mean for relations between the US and Europe?After almost two years of campaigning, the votes are all in and Barack Obama has been elected as the next President of the United States. It?s been described as an historic election and one which has been followed just as keenly in Europe as it has stateside.
European leaders have been quick to congratulate Senator Obama. And in these times of financial insecurity, the relationship between the EU and the US is as important as it's ever been. So what will a President Obama mean for relations between Europe and the US? Inside Europe's Rob Turner put the question to Ulrike Guerot of the European Council on Foreign Relations.
How did Europe respond to the election victory of Barack Obama?European leaders have been quick to welcome the election of Barack Obama, among them the President of the European Commission, Jose Manuel Barroso.
Inside Europe gauges the reaction across Europe to the next occupant of the White House.
Is the credit crunch changing France's food cultureAs the global credit crunch continues to tighten belts around the world, in France the traditionally relaxed bistro or brasserie lunch is also becoming a victim of the financial squeeze.
Almost three thousand restaurants went bankrupt in the first three months of the year as office workers have taken to grabbing a sandwich instead and people have stayed home in the evening rather than go out to eat. Over the summer holidays, even chic resorts such as St Tropez were hit by the downturn. Many restaurants are having to become increasingly inventive in order to attract business.
Reporter: Alasdair Sandford
Golf resort that "trumped" environmental concernsAmerican property tycoon Donald Trump has won his long battle for permission to build a giant golf resort in Scotland.
The Scottish government has over-ridden local objections and has approved the plan in principle. Trump says he is going to build the best golf course in the world. But opponents of the project say it will wreck the ecology of a sensitive area and damage local wildlife.
Reporter: Stephen Beard
Remembering a night of terror for Jews in GermanyThis weekend marks 70 years since the tragic events of November 9, 1938, a night that has gone down in history as Reichskristallnacht or the Night of Broken Glass.
Jews living in Germany give it another, perhaps more appropriate name, Reichspogromnacht, the night that the pogrom against the Jews began. For many it is remembered as the beginning of the Holocaust. In Munich, where nearly 5,000 Jewish citizens lost their lives during the Holocaust, the day has special significance because the Bavarian city was where Joseph Goebells, Nazi propaganda minister, gave the signal to begin the destruction and abuse that eventually lead to the death of millions of Jews throughout Europe.
Reporter: Mariana Schroeder
Breakaway Regions: Bosnia HerzegovinaThis week the European Commission published the so-called EU progress reports on countries in the western Balkans that emerged after the wars and break up of former Yugoslavia.
The report expressed worries about Bosnia and Herzegovina's political instability and criticises the inflammatory rhetoric of the countries' politicians saying it's blocking the functioning of Bosnian institutions.13 years after the end of the war in Bosnia deep ethnic divisions still exist between Serbs, Croats and Bosnian Muslims. In recent years, tensions have increased causing concern in the international community about Bosnia's future. So, is Bosnia on the brink of collapse? And how serious are Bosnian Serbs about secession?
Reporter: Barbara Gruber
Are Polish universities the easiest way into Europe for young Africans and Asians?Its term time again for students across Europe, and for many the idea of a year out or semester abroad is very appealing.
Since Poland joined the Schengen group allowing travel without border checks across Europe, its own borders have found themselves under pressure from growing numbers of young Asians and Africans hoping for better lives in the European Union. But with increased border controls, getting into Poland isn?t easy. So, some private Polish universities seem to have found a way around that. They advertise in countries like Bangladesh and Nepal offering young Asians cheap courses in a Schengen country with a promise of visa-free travel from Poland to richer EU states. Now, the number of Asian students coming to Poland is increasing dramatically.
Reporter: Rafal Kiepuszewski
Unearthing the hidden secrets of FlorenceA lucky few visitors to Florence in Italy will now be able to take a tour back to its origins. The city is lifting the veil on an archaeological dig under one of its most important buildings, the Palazzo Vecchio, the centuries-old seat of local government.
In the process revealing the city?s evolution over the past two thousand years, scientists have unearthed the remains of an ancient Roman theatre. The number of people allowed in will be strictly limited. Only around fifty can visit on the first Sunday of every month and last week the site opened for the first time.
Reporter: Jean di Marino
- Inside Europe: The Inside Take on European Affairs (27mb)
Sat, 1 Nov 2008 07:05:00 +0000
The credit crunch and Europe?s auto industry--Britain?s financial squeeze--Why the French anthem was booed--Can Europeans influence US election?--Is Scotland about to leave the UK?-- Press freedom in Turkey--Turning your loved ones into diamonds and what chess and boxing have in common. All this plus more on this week's Inside Europe.Tune in to Inside Europe on the radio or sign up for the Inside Europe podcast! You can also download the program from the website.
Hungarian neo-fascist paramilitary group expandsLast weekend - Magyar Garda - a neo-fascist paramilitary group swore in several hundred new members in a public ceremony in Budapest.
The Hungarian group has been troubling Roma and Jewish groups since its formation last year. Prosecutors in Budapest have brought a case against the Magyar Garda ? or ?Hungarian Guard? ? but have so far been unable to dismantle the group.
New series examines Europe?s breakaway regions
Reporter: Saroja CoelhoFollowing the independence of Kosovo and the recent trouble in the separatist Georgian regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia, Inside Europe will be taking a look at Europe?s breakaway regions over the next few weeks. And in the first of the series we ask is Scotland about to leave the United Kingdom?
The country has been part of the United Kingdom for over 300 years, but with a new local government run by the secessionist Scottish National Party, independence is once again on the cards. So are the Scots ready to break free?
Reporter: Lars Bevanger
Pressure growing for more control of Turkish MediaThe Turkish newspaper Taraf launched less than a year ago, has sent shock waves across the country. The paper with sources deep the military have published scoop after scoop exposing military interference in politics.
Until now the army which has overthrown 4 governments since 1960 has traditionally been untouchable. Now the paper is challenging the army over its 20 year war against Kurdish separatists. But, the paper is facing increasing pressure legal and political pressure and as Dorian Jones reports from Istanbul its part of ongoing controls on the media.
How to turn your nearest and dearest into diamondsWith the new James Bond film hitting the screens this week, it seems an old maxim of creator Ian Fleming could be true.
Now, Diamonds really are forever. Algordanza, a small company based in Switzerland has started using the ashes of dead people to make diamonds, which then serve as a permanent memento for the deceased?s nearest and dearest. But, especially in these financially troubled times, is this not a rather extravagant funeral expense?
Interview: Rob Turner/ Veit Brimer (Chairman of Algordanza)
What do chess and boxing have in common?If you think chess and boxing couldn?t possibly have anything in common, think again.
They?re both sports that need stamina and intelligence. They?re both two of the oldest sporting disciplines in history. And aside from that, they?ve actually been combined to create Europe?s newest sport, ChessBoxing. Before you ask the question: how can a chess player match it against a muscly boxer when the gloves are on, or vice versa: how does a fit boxer match it against a chess champ,
Report: Nina Haase
Credit crunch threatens Europe?s auto industryThe ongoing financial crisis has certainly put the brakes on Europe?s automobile industry. This week German and French car makers have announced temporarily closures to their factories as demand falls due to the credit crunch. Will Europe?s car-makers have to follow the example of their US counterparts and seek federal aid to stave off bankruptcy?
BMW on stopped its production in Leipzig for four days, while Mercedes-producer Daimler is shutting down for up to five weeks. French car company Renault also temporarily closed all of its local factories and some of its foreign plants, while Peugeot-Citroen said it would slash production by 30 percent.
And it?s not just the manufactures themselves that are being hit: suppliers to the industry making microchips, floor mats or seatbelts have had to follow suit as well and are switching off their production lines. Now Brussels is considering financial help as an incentive for the industry to produce climate friendly cars.
Interview: Rob Turner/Christoph Rauwald, senior reporter at Dow Jones in Stuttgart
Is Britain headed for the tightest financial squeeze in Europe?No country seems to be entirely immune from the global financial crisis. But some appear to be worse affected than others. Among them : that former poster child of economic success ? Britain.
After sixteen years of uninterrupted -and often buoyant - growth, the UK has just recorded a dip in output. Even the British government admits a severe recession is on the way. And some economists say it could be the deepest in the western world.
Reporter: Stephen Beard
How well has France assimilated its immigrants?It?s an unfortunate part of international football that the anthems of opposing teams are drowned out in boos. But when the French national anthem, La Marseillaise was booed earlier this month at a match between the French and Tunisian teams it came as a great surprise.
The game wasn?t held in Tunisia, but in Paris. The incident outraged many people, while others said the episode was overdramatized. Still, it has left questions about how well France has assimilated its immigrants over the years.
Reporter : Eleanor Beardsley
Can Europeans influence the upcoming American election?Many Europeans are registering voters and rallying for their candidate. But they aren?t flag-waving patriots who want to usher their fellowcountry man or woman into office.
These volunteers are giving countless hours to campaign for U.S. presidential candidates. They neither vote nor live in the country and the eventual winner won?t represent them on the world?s stage. Why bother? Nancy Greenleese finds out from some of these supporters without borders.
- Inside Europe: The Inside Take on European Affairs (31mb)
Sat, 25 Oct 2008 07:05:00 +0000
This week in a special edition of Inside Europe we take an in-depth look at prisons. Stories include -- Overcrowding in Britain?s prison system -- Could a Norwegian prison be a model for the rehabilitation of prisoners? -- Inmates making airwaves in Poland -- High fashion ?Made in Jail? -- Women?s prison in Romania hits the high notes and the prison that visitors are queuing up to stay in.
Tune in to Inside Europe on the radio or sign up for the Inside Europe podcast! You can also download the programme from the website.
Studio Guest Jan de Cock ? author of ?Hotel Prison?Now have you ever wondered how Russian prisoners celebrate their release? Or how festive Christmas is when your cellmate has just passed away? Or which prisons have a kindergarten? Today?s Inside Europe guest certainly did.
Jan de Cock travelled the world searching for the meaning of life behind bars. On his travels, he encountered petty thieves, con-men and aeroplane hijackers and shared cells for weeks on end with musicians and actors, murderers and mothers who had stolen food for their children.
He lived alongside rats, fleas and locusts, all the time keeping a diary of his experiences, and recorded them all in his book ?Hotel Prison? which has been published in the Flemish original, Dutch, German, French and English.
Today he joins us to talk about these experiences in the relatively safe environment of the Deutsche Welle Studios in Bonn.
Interview: Rob Turner/Jan de Cock
Overcrowding puts the squeeze on Britain?s prison systemThe issue of overcrowding as in too many prisoners having to share in Britain has led to a rise of suicide cases in British jails.
Indeed Lawyers have warned that dangerous criminals are left to roam the streets to avoid clogging up the courts.
The government has been accused of trying to build its way out of the crisis and is planning to increase prison capacity in Britain and that is despite the fact that in Britain has more people locked up than anywhere else in western Europe.
Now critics say resources would be better spent on offenders' rehabilitation, crime prevention and victim support.
Poland prison goes on air
Reporter: Lars BevangerIn one prison in Poland prisoners have been particularly creative.
Inmates and guards at a prison in the north-east of the country have decided to develop a local television network, which will also reach out to the local community.
Reporter: Rafal Kiepuszewski
Norway prison attempts to develop trust and responsibility in prisonersIn the middle of Norway's Oslo Fjord lies one of Europe's most unusual prison facilities. The island prison of Bastøy was once a state institution for delinquent youths.
For the past 20 years Bastøy has been a prison for male imates nearing the end of their sentences. Any similarities to Rikers Island in New York or the now defunct Alcatraz in San Francisco ends upon arrival.
Around 110 male prisoners live and work on the island in conditions that authorities hope will prepare them for a normal life after their sentence.
Reporter: Guy Degen
Made in JailIn Italy, an entrepreneurial group of ex-cons is producing its own goods -- loudly and proudly marketing them as Made in Jail.
The Made in Jail label makes everything from logo t-shirts and sweats to handbags and sells their goods through shops in downtown Rome and at roadside restaurants across the country.
Megan Williams spent an afternoon in the Rebibbia prison in Rome and has this report on how what inmates learn on the inside makes for good business on the outside.
The world?s hippest prisonIn the Slovenian capital Lubljana, people from around the world are practically queuing up to get in to.
That?s because the prison in question has been converted into a unique hostel that?s been described as the ?hippest in the world?. Helen Seeney checked in to find out why.
Romanian inmates hit the high notesRomania?s biggest women?s prison who have formed and still sing in a very successful choir.
Julian Muresian went to visit the prisoners and sample a little of their musical offerings.
- Inside Europe: The Inside Take on European Affairs (27mb)
Sat, 18 Oct 2008 07:05:00 +0000
On this week?s show: EU leaders call for a new economic world order--The legacy of Austrian right wing populist Jörg Haider--Can Moldova win over the West with Wine?--US giant Facebook calls a rival German firm copycat--Is social networking in Turkey empowering people or polarising society?--How nasty can the digital battlefield get? and a new way of keeping people alive virtually Web cemeteries.Tune in to Inside Europe on the radio or sign up for the Inside Europe podcast! You can also download the programme from the website.
EU leaders call for a new economic world orderFrench President Nicolas Sarkozy said this week that the global credit crunch represented an unprecedented crisis for the European Union. But the bloc?s 27 member states, he said, now have a common and robust solution to the crisis.
President Sarkozy was attending an EU summit in Brussels, where the bloc endorsed a major financial rescue package - including measures to inject new capital into ailing lenders and encourage the flow of credit to consumers and businesses.
The leaders of the European Union also called for a new financial world order and backed the idea of the G8 to hold a world finance summit before the end of this year.
Reporter: Eleanor Beardsley (Brussels)
Iceland?s economic meltdown leaves islanders financially strandedThe biggest national casualty of the financial crisis has been Iceland. Its three largest banks have gone bust and the whole economy is in danger.
Officials from the International Monetary Fund have arrived on the island and are working on a rescue package. For Icelanders living abroad these are very difficult times. Many of them have had their funds cut off; and they?re watching events unfold back home with mounting consternation and dismay.
Reporter: Stephen Beard (London)
The legacy of Austrian right wing populist Jörg HaiderThe death of Austrian far-right politician Jörg Haider in a car crash last weekend has thrown into doubt the future of his party, the Alliance for Austria's Future.
It's also raised the possibility of the country's two successful far-right parties joining forces. Haider was killed when his car smashed into concrete barriers and overturned while travelling at more than twice the speed limit.
Reporter: Kerry Skyring (Vienna)
Winemaking - changing Moldova?s imageWhen foreigners read about Moldova it?s invariably in association with corruption, human trafficking or wide scale poverty. Moldovans, though, would like their country?s image to be based on one of its potential assets ? winemaking.
After all, Moldovan wines are exported to around 60 countries and the locals will tell you that Moldova is even shaped like a bunch of grapes.
The country?s oenological heritage is a distinguished one: Moldova?s vineyards have won prestigious foreign awards and back in the nineteenth century, their wines were drunk by the British royal family. But the industry needs a higher profile and more markets abroad.
Reporter: Helen Seeney (Moldova)
The digital battlefield ? tracing Internet traffic and cyber attacksAdvances in computer technology and the Internet have changed the way we work, learn, and communicate. Within little over a decade the world wide web has brought significant changes to our societies, our economies and political systems.
It?s connecting people across the world and enables them to share knowledge, exchange ideas and build networks. It has an incredible potential, but also its dark sides. Identity theft, child pornography and cyber attacks are just a few examples of flourishing and lucrative cyber crime.
For some years now concerted online attacks have become a growing threat, but the recent cyber war between Russia and Georgia has shown how nasty the digital battlefield can get and how vulnerable web-reliant countries are.Interview: Barbara Gruber/ Bill Woodcock research director of Packet Clearing House, a non-profit organisation that tracks Internet traffic
Facebook sparks political debate in TurkeyThe website Facebook has become synonymous with social networking. For most people it's a way to keep in touch with friends and check out their holiday snaps. But in Turkey, Facebook is at the centre of a fiery political debate.
Earlier this year Turkey?s constitutional court heard a case about whether the governing Islamic AK party was seeking to overthrow the secular state and introduce Islamic rule. There was widespread speculation that the AK party would be banned. The court found the AK party guilty but did not shut it down. However, the case continues to divide Turkish society, with both sides fighting it out on Facebook.
Reporter Dorian Jones (Istanbul)
US giant Facebook calls a rival German firm copycatDespite the online social networking giant Facebook being about making friends, the company also has a few enemies.
This summer, Facebook filed a law suit against a German competitor, studiVZ, alleging they copied the look and feel of the well-known social media site. But where do you draw the line between innovators and copy cats?
Europe and the Internet
Reporter: Susan Stone(Berlin)It has been four months since Irish voters rejected the EU reform plans to streamline EU decision-making and strengthen European institutions.
Europeans are now debating how to move forward with the Lisbon Reform Treaty, and part of that discussion is happening online.
The European Commission hopes to bridge the gap with EU citizens by promoting new ways for a pan-European dialogue.
Reporter: Alex Bakst (Brussels)
Web cemeteries - remembering your loved ones onlineSetting up web memorials to commemorate our loved ones is fast becoming popular.
The way we remember them has always been strongly determined by the media surrounding us - from the earliest forms of painting, to sculpture, to the invention of photography and video.
Now the internet is creating a new chapter in the culture of remembrance. But is it changing the way we see death, and the way we grieve? Anna Brooke has more on the growing trend of internet memorial sites.
- Inside Europe: The Inside Take on European Affairs (27mb)
Sat, 11 Oct 2008 07:05:00 +0000
This week: Britain?s banking bailout, a model for economic relief? Will the financial crisis in Iceland result in EU membership and the Euro? Did the CIA sabotage the Irish vote on the Lisbon Treaty and why being green is a growth industry in Sweden?
Tune in to Inside Europe on the radio or sign up for the Inside Europe podcast! You can also download the programme from the website. Is Britain?s banking bailout a model for economic relief?This week Britain took unprecedented action to stem the turmoil in its financial markets and save the UK?s financial system from collapse.
The government unveiled a massive programme of intervention. It pledged to spend up to $700 billion dollars of taxpayers? money shoring up British banks. The banks ?understandably ? welcomed the initiative. And some analysts suggest it could become a model for global action to end the crisis. But as Stephen Beard reports from London many British taxpayers seem rather less impressed with the plan.
Will the financial crisis in Iceland result in EU membership and the Euro?This week the Icelandic government took control of the country's three largest banks, as it struggled to prevent a collapse of its entire banking system.
Prime Minister Geir H. Haarde warned that Iceland was at risk of national bankruptcy. The severity of the financial crisis in Iceland has led to growing calls for Iceland to join the European Union and adopt the Euro. The government has rejected those calls in the past but how much pressure is it now under? Helen Seeney put that question to Baldur Thorhallson, a political scientist at the University of Iceland.
Did the CIA sabotage the Irish vote on the Lisbon Treaty?Back in June, the Irish voted NO in a referendum on the Lisbon Treaty, which is designed to streamline the EU and make its institutions more efficient.
Most EU members had already given their green light to the Treaty but the NO from Ireland put the reform process on ice. There are now allegations that the CIA was behind the no campaign in Ireland. It might sound like a conspiracy theory gone mad, but some members of the European Parliament are calling for an investigation into Declan Ganley, an Irish millionaire who helped fund the NO campaign. They believe Mr Ganley has some dubious and lucrative business links with the Pentagon. Vanessa Mock has the details from Brussels.
Why being green is a growth industry in Sweden?Saving the environment is rarely seen as a good way to make money.
Alternative energies like wind and solar power are still more expensive than traditional fossil energy sources, and the lack of profit slows the development of environmentally friendly technologies. But local politicians and businesses in the south of Sweden have turned being green into a growth industry. Lars Bevanger reports from Norrkoping south of Stockholm.
Can a new EU initiative offer hope to would-be migrants from Africa?Poverty is also a reason why thousands of Africans risk their lives each year to try and reach Europe in overcrowded boats.
Many of them don?t survive the journey. This week the European Union took an important step to curb illegal immigration from Africa and, at the same time, try and help Africans who want to move to Europe legally. On Monday the European Commission opened its first immigration information centre in Africa. The Centre is situated in the Malian capital, Bamako and will advise would be immigrants and also help those who have been sent back home from Europe. But given that illegal immigration is such a big problem, how much can one Centre achieve? Helen Seeney put that question to Patrick Taran, Senior Migration Specialist with the ILO in Geneva.
Human trafficking in MoldovaIt?s estimated that since Moldova became independent after the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, nearly a million people have left the country ? nearly a quarter of the population.
This is Europe?s poorest country. And Moldovan farm labourers and builders are common in Russia, Turkey and the Balkans. But many of these emigrants are women who have been forced into prostitution throughout Europe. Moldova has Europe?s highest rate of human trafficking. Matt Herman reports on efforts to combat this problem in Moldova?s capital, Chisinau.
A mute opera provides immigrants in Italy with a voiceThe EU?s new office in Mali is an institutional response to the plight of would be migrants in Africa.
It?s not always easy for Europeans to see the personal stories behind the statistics and look beyond the recurring television footage of stranded boatloads of Africans arriving on European shores. But a new Italian opera is offering a whole new perspective on the lives and the hopes of immigrants who do make it to Europe. It?s an opera with a difference. So forget tenors, sopranos and arias. This opera has hardly any singing. And as Megan Williams reports from Rome, it?s the lack of voice that conveys all that operatic tragedy and drama.
- Inside Europe: The Inside Take on European Affairs (27mb)
Sat, 4 Oct 2008 07:05:00 +0000
This week: Financial turmoil hits the Continent ? Is London?s economic might threatened by Asian markets? - The struggle of Belarus? political opposition - Country and western conquers France - Chemical castration for convicted paedophiles in Poland - Hitler?s shadow looms over Linz as Europe?s next Cultural Capital - And it?s pot luck at Europe?s largest matchmaking festival.Tune in to Inside Europe on the radio or sign up for the Inside Europe podcast! You can also download the programme from the website.
Financial turmoil hits the Continent ? has Europe been caught offguard?When the financial crisis erupted last month, a number of European leaders were quick to blame the turbulence on the United States, the United Kingdom and their ?Anglo Saxon? capitalist model.
There was a belief ? or perhaps, simply a hope ? that continental Europe could avoid the upheaval. But events this week have proved otherwise. European authorities have been scrambling to save the continent?s financial system, and have had to bail out banks in a number of European countries. But how adequate have their responses been? Helen Seeney put that question to Nicolas Véron, an analyst with Bruegel, a Brussels-based think tank on economic policy making.
Is the City of London?s economic might threatened by Asian marketsBritain has been more directly affected by the financial turmoil in America than any other European country.
The UK is not only the US?s closest political ally in Europe; the UK has adopted the same economic approach as America, it favours many of the same free market policies. As Stephen Beard reports from London, the British capital?s financial centre is linked umbilically with Wall Street.
Belarus? opposition counts the cost of parliamentary electionsThe European Union and the United States have expressed their concern that elections last weekend in Belarus were not democratic.
Candidates loyal to Belarus? authoritarian president, Aleksandr Lukashenko, won all 110 parliamentary seats. President Lukashenko had pledged free and fair elections and said he was seeking better relations with the US and the EU. Brussels has imposed sanctions on Belarus in response to his rule: Belarus is often described as Europe?s last dictatorship. Earlier Helen Seeney spoke to Vintsuk Vyachorka, an opposition leader with the Belarussian Popular Front. The authorities barred him from standing as a candidate in the elections and he gave me his assessment of the poll.
Chemical castration for convicted paedophiles in PolandThe Polish government is drafting a law that would introduce chemical castration for convicted paedophiles.
The move is in response to public concerns over two paedophile incest scandals that have come to light in recent weeks. Critics say the draft law marks the reversal of a liberal stance taken by Prime Minister Donald Tusk. Tusk came to power a year ago promising to undo an unpopular moral majority crusade waged by the former government. Human rights organizations have pointed out that Poland would be the only country in the European Union to introduce such drastic measures. From Warsaw Rafal Kiepuszewski reports.
Adolf Hitler?s shadow looms over Linz as Europe?s next Cultural CapitalNext year, the Austrian town of Linz, Austria will become European Cultural Capital. It won?t be the first time that Linz is the focus of attention.
Adolf Hitler, who went to school there, wanted this small Upper Austrian town to become his own personal Capital of Culture during the Nazi era. It was in Linz that he hoped to build a mega museum to house art - bought, borrowed, or stolen - from all over Europe. Little remains of Hitler's grandiose plans, which would have largely destroyed the historical core of the town. Now the organizers of Linz 2009 have created an exhibit that brings back some of the historical facts that many would prefer to forget. Marianna Schroeder went to Linz and has this report.
What has Stavanger in Norway achieved during its run as Cultural Capital?Next year, Linz will share the title of European Cultural Capital with Vilnius in Lithuania. They?ll be taking over from this year?s cultural hubs ? Liverpool in England and Stavanger in Norway.
As the home of the Beatles, Liverpool has used the title to showcase its musical credentials and promote itself as a hip and happening place. But what about lesser known Stavanger. It?s a more modest Cultural Capital but the organizers of this year?s events had clear goals in mind when they won the title at the beginning of the year. Cornelius Middelthon is the Managing Director of Stavanger?s Cultural Capital fesitivities and told me more.
It?s pot luck at Europe?s largest matchmaking festivalParis may be the city of love, Venice the ideal place for romance ? but: Europe?s largest matchmaking festival is held in a country town on the western shores of Ireland.
Each year, Lisdoonvarna, home to about 800 people, welcomes thousands of visitors to its after-harvest dancing, drinking and dating fair. The estimated turnover during the six weeks of the festival amounts to an incredible two million Euro! The Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival ? how could our reporter Susanne Henn resist it.
How country and western has conquered the achey breaky hearts of the FrenchLast weekend, near an old and majestic château north of Paris, some two thousand people in cowboy hats danced one of the biggest line dances ever.
Though not renowned for their love of American culture, the French are getting into Country and Western music in a big way. In fact, dancing to ?La Country? has become so popular that the country?s bureaucrats are stepping in to bring it under government control. This report from John Laurenson begins at a Country Music Night near Montauban, south-west France.
- Inside Europe: The Inside Take on European Affairs (27mb)
Sat, 27 Sep 2008 07:05:00 +0000
This week: Would tighter regulation have saved Europe from the financial crisis?--The credit crunch hits Spain--Tough times for British PM-- New Mozart music--Could immigration be changing Irish Society?--Trust connects specialists with the developing world--Cologne awards Adenauer Prize to Sicilian politician--Rhaetian railway becomes world heritage site and the Citroen 2CV at 60.
Tune in to Inside Europe on the radio or sign up for the Inside Europe podcast! You can also download the programme from the website.Could immigration be changing the fabric of Irish Society?Irish immigration to the United States has a long history, but now John McCain has brought the subject into the Presidential race by promising amnesty for 50,000 Irish citizens working quote ?illegally? in the country.
But the long tradition of Irish migration has a flipside. As Ireland?s economy has rapidly expanded over the past decade, foreign nationals have been filling the growing demand for labour. It?s estimated that around 400,000 migrants have moved to Ireland over the last 10 years, accounting for almost 10% of the population. This constitutes migration on a scale that has not been seen anywhere in Europe since the second world war.
Reporter: Coilin O?Connor
Trust connects leading specialists with the developing worldThe Swinfen Charitable trust is the only telemedicine service that connects the developing world with leading specialists around the globe. And it?s all run from the Swinfen?s home near Canterbury in Southern England.
When a little boy in Nepal was bitten by a snake, few people gave him a chance of survival. His leg went gangerous and when doctors finally got to see him 3 weeks later, his leg was almost hanging off. Yet all it took to save his life was a digital camera, a computer with an internet connection and the dedication of an English Lord and his wife and their volunteer team of top surgeons.
Reporter: Rob Turner/ Lord Swinfen
Cologne awards Konrad Adenauer Prize to Sicilian politicianYou may think that standing up to the Mafia deserves a medal, and you wouldn?t be alone.
The city of Cologne has awarded this year?s Konrad Adenauer prize to Sicilian politician Leoluca Orlando. During his periods as mayor of the city of Palermo in Sicily he was an outspoken and courageous fighter against the Mafia, a commitment he has continued in his work as a national and European parliamentarian.
Reporter: Frances Kennedy
Rhaetian railway becomes UNESCO world heritage siteIt?s already one of the highest and steepest railway lines in Europe, and now the people of Switzerland have another reason to celebrate their famous Rhaetian alpine railway this month.
It has just been made a UNESCO world heritage site - only the 3rd in railway in the world to receive the honour.
Reporter: Imogen Foulkes
Citroen 2CV celebrates 60th birthdayIt was in many ways as much a symbol of French life as the baguette or the beret... and now it's celebrating its 60th birthday.
The Citroen 2CV became as popular abroad as it was at home in post-war France. The little car with its distinctive shape was a hit among many different types of people, from farmers to hippies, and came to epitomise a certain carefree attitude to life. Now a grand exhibition has been organised to celebrate the anniversary in Paris.
Reporter: Alasdair Sandford
Would tighter regulation have saved Europe from the financial crisis?Should they or shouldn?t they? It?s the question that has been raging across Europe this week.
We are of course refering to the financial markets: in the light of the global financial crisis should there be stronger regulation of banks and markets in Europe? EU internal market commissioner Charlie McCreevy has told MEPs Hedge funds and private equity should be watched closely, but no new regulation in the field is needed. Yet EU leaders such as Germany?s Angela Merkel and France?s Nicholas Sarkozy have been vocal in their criticism. Why should Europe have to pay for the mistakes and greed of Wall St Bankers, they ask?
Interview Rob Turner / Ian Johnson (Wall St Journal Europe)
Spain suffers from global economic crisisThe crunch on credit has severely affected the Spanish construction industry ? house sales are down by more than thirty percent.
Meanwhile, levels of unemployment together with interest rates are rising and the prices of goods continue to go up. This economic slump is hitting young people very hard. It?s reinforcing a cultural habit, common among Spain?s young adults, of living with their parents until well into their thirties, and making many young people who?ve actually left home, return to mum and dad out of economic desperation.
Reporter: Danny Wood
Tough times for British Prime Minister Gordon BrownIt has been a make or break week for the British prime minister Gordon Brown, who had to make what some called the speech of his political life on Tuesday to the Labour party conference in Manchester.
Some of his fellow party members in the conference hall had openly called for his resignation, after his first year as leader saw a huge drop in popularity for the Labour government. So did Gordon Brown convince doubters in his own party - and the electorate?
Reporter: Lars Bevanger
New Mozart music excites scholarsA previously unknown piece of music by Mozart which has just been discovered in western France.
The single sheet of music was found among the archives at a library in Nantes. It's caused a ripple of excitement among Mozart scholars in Austria, who've authenticated the music as that of Wolfgang Amadeus.
Reporter: Kerry Skyring
- Inside Europe: The Inside Take on European Affairs (27mb)
Sat, 20 Sep 2008 07:05:00 +0000
September 26th is the European Day of Languages, so in this special edition of the programme, we?re taking an in-depth look at languages around the continent: 23 official languages and counting--Is Danish in danger of dying out?-- The whistling language of El Silbo-- The hidden language of Latvia-- French slang--The blind seek better access to languages on the net and what on earth is Globish?
The Inside Take on European AffairsThe evolution of 'Denglish'If you take into account some 82 million citizens of Germany, add Austria, parts of Switzerland and other regions along the fringes of these countries, then it's not surprising that Deutsch, the German language, has a large footprint across Europe.
However, in a globalised world of international business and commerce, English words and expressions are increasingly working their way into German.
It's getting to the stage where many German speakers are asking what has happened to their language.
Reporter: Eric Heath
EU steers course for multilingualismWhat are the needs of Europeans from a multilingual European Union?
With 506 language combinations, the cost of translations alone for the EU runs into the hundreds of millions of euro every year.
With new EU candidates countries the workload and expense is only likely to increase. Romanian EU representative Leonard Orban is EU Commissioner for Mulitlingualism.
Interview: Guy Degen/ Leonard Orban
Is Danish in danger of dying out?The Danes, like their Scandinavian neighbours, appear to have a gift for languages. Most seem to speak good English which makes life easier for English-speaking tourists in Denmark. But it's worrying some Danish language experts and politicians.
They fear that English is becoming so widespread in Denmark that it threatens to undermine the native language ? perhaps even replacing it before too long. Politicians are now debating whether the country needs a law to protect Danish from extinction.
Report: Kyle James
The whistling language of El SilboPicture this. You?re in mountainous terrain with deep canyons and no cell phone at your fingertips? How are you going to communicate over the long distances when even shouting doesn?t do the trick?
Several hundred years ago, this was the dilemma facing people living on the small Canary island of La Gomera. Out of necessity, they developed a whistled language, which is unique in Europe. It's called El Silbo, from the verb silbar meaning to whistle. Today, El Silbo is only rarely used in day-to-day communication.
Reporter: Susanne Henn
What on earth is Globish?Charles the fifth, King of Spain and the Holy Roman Emperor once said: 'I speak Spanish to God, Italian to women, French to men, and German to my horse."
No doubt he was reaping the benefits of a good education, but finding a universal language or a means of cross cultural communication has been an idea many have tried to develop.
Esperanto is probably the most well known attempt at creating a common language and today there are still many enthusiasts.
But what about a trimmed down way of communication that could bridge the language divide? Globish has been referred to as a decaffeinated version of English. It's the brain child of Jean-Paul Nerriere - a Frenchman and former executive with IBM.
Globish has a voabulary of just 1500 words, no idioms, abbreviations or humour. It concentrates on the essentials and leaves out everything that may make cross-cultural communication difficult.
Interview: Guy Degen/Jean-Paul Nerriere
Livonian ? the hidden language of LatviaLanguages are not only a means of communication but also a window into a culture and its history.
The Livonians of Lativia are an ancient indigenous people but today there are only around 140 of them still alive. And there are less than a dozen who can speak Livonian fluently.
Reporter: Rajiv Sharma
Young people define the slang of French suburbsIn France, the slang of the suburbs has had a life of it's own.At times it doesn?t even sound like French.
Certainly not the textbook French you may have learned in school or university. However 10 young French people from a fairly tough suburb near Paris have compiled a lexicon of slang that?s become a bestseller.
Reporter: Genevieve Oger
The blind seek better designs to access languages on the netLanguages are of course not just spoken, they're also written or typed and printed on paper for newspapers, magazines and books. But let?s not forget about new media on the internet.
For the visually impaired, accessing written forms of communication can present an enormous hurdle. The written word has to be translated into Braille or made available electronically in a spoken form - all of which takes time and money.
The digital era of computers also presents the challenge of enabling the blind to read the large amounts of information available on the Internet.
However screen reading software and other devices for computers are now opening up the online world to blind people. But even though software is continually improving, poor web design is still making it difficult for the blind to fully use the information highway.
Reporter: Kate Hairsine
A Postcard from LondonNon native speakers of English now outnumber native speakers by three to one.
Within 10 years it's estimated that two-billion people will be studying English, and about half the world, that's some three-billion people will be speaking it. Not much of an incentive there for native English-speakers to learn other people's languages or is there?
Carol Allen's thoughts from London.
- Inside Europe: The Inside Take on European Affairs (26mb)
Sat, 6 Sep 2008 07:05:00 +0000
On this week?s Inside Europe: Syria and the West--Greek and Turkish Cypriots--Turkey and the conflict between Russia and Georgia-- Car-makers hope for a speedy resolution to the Caucasus crisis--An unusual changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace--Healthier lunches for French kids--The renewable energy revolution powering Iceland-- and Bayreuth Wagner Festival gets an historic shake-up.The Inside Take on European Affairs
Spain opens new inquiry into those missing during Franco dictatorshipA Spanish High Court Judge has opened the biggest ever investigation into the fate of thousands of people who went missing during the 1936-39 civil war and the forty year dictatorship of General Francisco Franco.
Judge Baltasar Garzon has asked Roman Catholic parishes and local councils all over the country to send him the records they hold about the people who disappeared. The inquiry could determine if the high court has jurisdiction to prosecute any killers who are still alive. It comes as a relief for many Spaniards who, three decades after General Franco?s death, still don?t know what happened to family members who died under his regime. But for others, including the conservative Popular Party, this probing into the past is divisive and unnecessary.
Why going back to school is leaving a sweet taste in the mouth for French schoolchildren
Reporter Danny WoodIn a country renowned for the thinness of its citizens and the high quality of its food, spiralling obesity rates came as a shock in France. So the French decided to do something about it and have recently reported a leveling off of childhood obesity, after two decades on the rise.
It is the first European country to show such a decline. The findings from two studies suggest that healthier school lunch programs and a ban on vending machines in schools could be paying off.
Reporter Eleanor Beardsley
WFP expands Free Rice schemeThe United Nations World Food Programme is offering plenty of food for thought?or should that be thought for food?
To coincide with the start of the new school year, the WFP is expanding its Free Rice scheme. How it works is that pupils around the world test their knowledge of English in an online quiz..for each correct answer they earn 20 grains of rice for the WFPs emergency aid fund. Now the quiz is set to include maths, art, chemistry and languages.
Interview: Rob Cameron / Ralf Südhoff (World Food programme)
The renewable energy revolution powering IcelandNow, for anyone looking at ways to achieve the EU?s goal of 20% of all energy from renewable sources by 2020, check out these statistics: In Iceland today more than 70% of the total energy use is already derived from renewable energy sources - far higher than anywhere else in the world.
Thanks to its geological structure and volcanic activity, the island has abundant geothermal power which provides cheap and pollution-free heating and hot water. But Iceland is striving to become completely independent of fossil fuels and is aiming to be the world?s first hydrogen society by 2050.
Reporter : Helen Seeney
Bayreuth Wagner Festival gets an historic shake-upWhen there?s a 10-year waiting list for a ticket, it?s always handy to have family connections when trying to get into the Bayreuth Festival, the world?s oldest and most prestigious summer music festival.
The month-long show is devoted to the works of the composer Richard Wagner, and in a milestone decision, the organisers have announced a new leadership team: Eva Wagner-Pasquier and Katharina Wagner ? both granddaughters of the famous composer. This marks the end of the 57 year reign of the previous festival director ? the women?s father Wolfgang Wagner. Dramatic, immediate changes, however, are not to be expected in a festival that has already been forward-planned up to the year 2015.
Report Rick Fulker
Are relations between Syria and the West, frozen for so long, about to thaw out?French President Nicolas Sarkozy has become the first western head of state to visit Syria in 5 years.
Sarkozy, whose country also holds the current EU presidency, travelled to Damascus for 2 days of talks. Ties between Syria and the West have been pretty much frozen since the murder of ex Lebanese premier Rafiq Hariri in 2005. Now though Sarkozy has described his trip as a "message of friendship" to the Syrians.
Interview: Rob Cameron/Peter Harling (International Crisis Group in Damascus)
Could Turkey be drawn into the conflict between Russia and Georgia?The conflict between Russia and Georgia has put Turkey in rather a tight spot. On the one hand Turkey is a NATO member and close US ally. But on the other, Russia is a close neighbour and its number one trading partner.
For the last few weeks Turkey has been working hard to defuse tensions over Georgia. Recently both the Georgian and Russia foreign ministers visited Turkey. But as Turkey hosted a meeting with a Georgian foreign minister in uncompromising mood, it could find itself be being sucked into the conflict.
Reporter: Dorian Jones
Why car-makers will be hoping for a speedy resolution to the Crisis in the CaucasusIf there?s one group of people that has cause for concern over the threat of EU sanctions and the freezing of partnerships with Russia over the crisis in the Caucasus, it?s Europe?s car makers.
The Russian car market is booming and it?s one of the few markets left in the flagging global economy where manufacturers can still make some real money. And that?s exactly what they?re trying to do in Moscow this week, as they hope the conflict won?t affect performance at the Moscow International Motor Show. ´
Reporter: Gregg Benzow
Greek and Turkish Cypriot leaders start peace talksRival Greek and Turkish Cypriot leaders have launched full scale peace talks aimed at breaking the stalemate that has exsisted on the divided island since the Turkish invasion in 1974.
Diplomats believe that these negotiations represent the best ever chance of reaching a settlement. There has been a surge of goodwill on both sides, especially in the Turkish controlled port of Famagusta, where former enemies are working to save one of the most important historic sites in the Mediterranean from terminal neglect.
Reporter: Malcolm Brabant
Buckingham Palace gears up for a very unusual changing of the guard!Buckingham Palace, the official London residence of the British Queen, is bracing itself for a rather unusual and quite literal, changing of the guard!
Anti-fur campaigners are demanding an end to the famous bearskin hats, or Busbies, worn by the Palace guards. The campaigners blame the headgear for the slaughter of scores of Canadian black bears every year.
Reporter: Stephen Beard
- Inside Europe: The Inside Take on European Affairs (26mb)
Sat, 30 Aug 2008 07:05:00 +0000
On this week?s Inside Europe - Can the EU diffuse tensions in the Caucasus?--What lies ahead for the Georgians remaining in South Ossetia?--Archaeology and climate change--Can the Brits pull off the 2012 Olympics?--Driving to Greece on cooking oil-- Utilising Iceland?s hot springs--Who?s won the race in World Monopoly?-- Wavepower music and Barenboim and the West-Eastern Divan orchestra.Tune in to Inside Europe on the radio or sign up for the Inside Europe podcast! You can also download the programme from the website.
It?s stale, it stinks, but fat from the fryer can get you all the way to GreeceA team of British environmental campaigners have succeeded in driving to Greece on nothing but cooking oil
The Grease to Greece rally was designed to show that its possible to do long journeys without using fossil fuel and to encourage people to convert their cars to bio fuels.
Report: Malcolm Brabant
What archaeology can tell us about climate changeThe retreating ice is revealing fascinating clues to Neolithic life in the high mountains.
We know that melting alpine glaciers are a sign of warmer global temperatures ? and we know that glaciers around the world have been melting faster than ever over the last 10 years. Now, a conference of archaeologists and climatologists meeting in the Swiss capital Berne has been discussing, the finds also provide key indicators to climate change.
How wavepower is music to the ears in a Croatian coastal town
Reporter Imogen FoulkesOne of Europe?s most original composers might well be the Adriatic Sea.
The underwater installation of 35 organ pipes in the Croatian city of Zadar is drawing visitors from around the world to a corner of Zadar?s old town waterfront. The so-called sea organ that is played by the waves was built three years ago, and the architect who conceived it, Nikola Ba?i?, was subsequently awarded a prestigious European prize for best use of public space.
Reporter: Alexa Dvorson
Music is Daniel Barenboim?s metaphor for life and living togetherThe world-renowned conductor Daniel Barenboim, describes the West-Eastern Divan orchestra as the most important thing in his life.
The ensemble was founded by Barenboim together with the late Palestinian academic Edward Said more than ten years ago. It?s aim - to bring together young Israeli and Palestinian musicians in one of the most politically daring projects in musical history. This exceptional orchestra is currently touring Europe.
Iceland?s geothermal activity provides invaluable energy source
Reporter: Kate LaycockFew countries utilise water as extensively as Iceland. It has abundant cold water from glaciers and rivers. As well as an endless supply of hot water, thanks to the island?s geothermal activity.
Iceland?s hot springs and geysers provide both energy and pleasure. They?re an environmentally friendly source of heating for around 85% of Iceland?s homes. They also fill countless swimming pools which are to be found in all major towns in Iceland. Maria Reynisdottir is with the company, Visit Reykjavik and she says the geo-thermal pools are an important part of social life.
EU seeks to diffuse tensions in the Caucasus
Interview: Helen Seeney/ Maria ReynisdottirThe European Union will hold an emergency summit on Monday to discuss the crisis in Georgia and its relations with Russia. There?s increasing frustration in European capitals over Moscow?s role in the conflict.
On Wednesday, Moscow announced it was recognising the independence of Georgia?s breakaway regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia. That sparked widespread condemnation from European leaders. The German Chancellor, Angela Merkel, said the decision was ?absolutely unacceptable?. But what?s the practical impact of Russia?s decision?
Interview Helen Seeney/Lawrence Sheets ( International Crisis group in the Georgian capital Tbilisi)
Georgians remaining in South Ossetia ponder futureThe UNHCR believes the conflict in Georgia has displaced around 150,000 people and that some 25,000 are in need of aid. Is there a future for the Georgians remaining in South Ossetia?
Those who have fled the fighting have had to give up their homes and livelihoods. In the calm after the storm, they?re trying to pick up the pieces and wondering what comes next.
Reporter: Eric Heath
Who?s won the race in World Monopoly?750 million people around the world have played Monopoly since it was patented back in 1935. At least that?s according to Hasbro, the parent company that produces Monopoly. And the board game is sold in 103 countries and produced in 37 languages. But which cities are appearing in this new global edition of the game?
On Wednesday, Hasbro launched its first global edition of Monopoly. 5 and a half million fans around the world voted online to decide which cities would appear on this new edition. The resulting line-up might surprise you ? not least of all the 2 cities chosen to represent the most.
Report: Carol Allen
Pressure on London after Beijing?s Olympic triumphAfter the grandeur, spectacle and efficiency of Beijing, Britain must stage the next Games in 2012.
Britain had a great Olympics. After decades of sporting mediocrity and failure, the UK scooped 19 gold medals. It came fourth in the medal count, behind China, the U.S. and Russia, but well ahead of old sporting rivals like Australia and Germany. But Britain now faces an even more daunting task than winning medals - it must stage the next Games in 2012. And when it comes to organising and funding big events, the UK?s track record doesn?t look too great.
Reporter: Stephen Beard
- Inside Europe: The Inside Take on European Affairs (26mb)
Sat, 23 Aug 2008 07:05:00 +0000
This week on Inside Europe: NATO throws down the gauntlet to Russia following the war in Georgia--Warsaw and Washington sign US defence agreement--The 40th anniversary of the Soviet-led invasion of Czechoslovakia--English village seeks credit solution-Cleaning up the Baltic Sea-Swedes lower car mileage--Is France?s National Front party selling out? -- and Edinburgh?s Fringe Festival thrives.
Tune in to Inside Europe on the radio or sign up for the Inside Europe podcast! You can also download the programme from the website.
Attempting to clean up the Baltic SeaIt?s a large but almost closed body of water and it?s also one of the busiest waterways in the world. Does that mean it?s also one of the most polluted?
Two and a half thousand experts, government officials and business representatives gathered in the Swedish capital this week to take part in World Water Week. This annual conference is organised by the Stockholm International Water Institute. The focus this year was on the diverse aspects of sanitation. One area of concern here in Europe is the Baltic Sea which is bordered by Russia and eight countries belonging to the European Union ? Sweden, Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Germany and Denmark.
Reuniting Helgoland
Interview: Helen Seeney/Jakob Granit, Project Director with the Stockholm International Water InstituteIn 1720 a huge storm split the island Helgoland in two ? now an entrepreneur wants to fill the space between the two islands.
The German island of Helgoland is situated around 70 kilometers from the coast and is about one point seven square kilometers in size. It?s a peaceful place to live and visit. Just 1,400 people call Helgoland home, there are no bicycles, and it wasn?t until last year that the island got its first police car. But it wasn?t always so tranquil. On New Year?s Eve, 1720, a huge storm split the island in two. Now, an ambitious entrepreneur is hoping to fill in the space between the two islands in the hope of attracting more tourists.
Report Andrew Ryan
How Swedish companies are getting more mileage from their carsFor years, businesses in Sweden have been sending their employees for lessons on how to save fuel when driving. Now, eco-driving is becoming mainstream.
Rising fuel prices are forcing motorists around the world to think twice before taking to the wheel. The Swedes are no exception. They?re known for their appreciation of comfortable and powerful cars. But that, of course, comes at a price. Petrol is now around two Euro per litter in Sweden, so those heavy-engine cars are becoming a huge drain on the wallet. The solution? Eco-driving.
Reporter Alison Hawkes
Is France?s anti-immigration National Front party selling out to the Chinese?France?s far-right National Front party has fallen on hard times. For three decades the party has campaigned on an anti-immigration platform under the slogan Keep France for the French.
It?s leader Jean Marie Le Pen shocked France when he reached the run-off in the 2002 presidential election. Since then, though, support has plummeted. As well, it seems, as the party?s financial fortunes. With debts of around ?8 million, the National Front is now selling its prestigious headquarters in Paris to raise funds. The buyer ? a Chinese university.
Reporter John Laurenson
Edinburgh?s Fringe Festival thrivesThe Edinburgh fringe festival is often referred to as the biggest arts festival in the world.
Every summer the city's population more than doubles as thousands of performers and festival-goers pour into the Scottish capital. Parks, schools and churches are all converted to house everything from the sublime to the ridiculous.
Report: Rosie Johnston
NATO throws down the gauntlet to Russia following the war in GeorgiaThe fighting left thousands dead and many more homeless. But as the violence calms down, a new quarrel could be brewing following the NATO summit in Brussels.
In protest at Russia?s military intervention in Georgia, NATO foreign ministers held an extraordinary meeting in Brussels this week to discuss the crisis. The conflict broke out at the beginning of August when Georgia launched an assault to wrest back control of the Moscow-backed breakaway region of South Ossetia. This triggered a counter-offensive by Russian troops who advanced beyond South Ossetia into Georgia's heartland.
Warsaw and Washington sign the US missile defence shield agreement
Reporter: Rob TurnerThe deal has many critics in Poland, who point out that it could seriously upset the country?s relations with Russia, which has long objected to the missile shield.
On Wednesday Condoleeza Rice and the Polish Foreign Minister, Radoslaw Sikorski, signed the deal to deploy part of a US missile shield on Polish territory. The Polish government was initially reluctant to accept the system, but it changed its mind after it received additional US security guarantees including the boosting of its air defences.
Reporter: Rafal Kiepuszewski
Commemorating the 40th anniversary of the Soviet-led invasion of CzechoslovakiaMore reminders of the Cold War this week in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. The two countries marked the 40th anniversary of the Soviet-led invasion with a number of ceremonies and exhibitions.
Shortly before midnight, on August 20th, 1968, 200,000 Warsaw Pact troops occupied Communist Czechoslovakia, to put an end to the liberal reforms known as the Prague Spring. Around 100 people were killed and hundreds wounded in the clashes that followed, and an estimated 300,000 people later emigrated.
Reporter: Rob Cameron
Has a small town in England found a solution to the credit crunch?Community to create local currency
The credit crunch and soaring oil prices are causing misery for consumers all over the world. The economic gloom has left governments and bankers floundering. But does a small town in England have the solution? The people of Lewes, in the southeast of the country, have come up with what they believe is a long term solution to both problems. They?re going to launch their very own local currency.
Report: Stephen Beard
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Sat, 16 Aug 2008 07:05:00 +0000
On this weeks programme: The Fight for South Ossetia - Eastern Europeans Lend Political Support to Georgia - Georgians Abroad React to the Conflict - What Was the GDR Again? - The Long Jump from the US to Italy! - Pedestrians in Lodz Beware! - Dream Homes at Prices to Dream Of - Porgy and Bess Head South. All this plus more on this week's Inside Europe!Tune in to Inside Europe on the radio or subscribe to the Inside Europe podcast! You can also download the program from our website.
The Fight for South OssetiaSouth Ossetia. Until a week ago most people have never heard of it. But the events of the last week have focussed the world?s attention on this tiny separatist region of Georgia at the crossroads of east and west, and north and south.
Tension between Georgia and Russia has been rising since the breakup of the former Soviet Union. The majority of the South Ossetian population want independence from Georgia and have been waging a separatist struggle for years. Last week, though, Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili sought to regain control of the region by force. Russia supports the separatists and responded by sending in tanks and troops. So why has such an impoverished, isolated part of the Caucasus resulted in what some analysts argue is causing a new Cold War? Sabine Freizer, Director of the European Programme at the International Crisis Group, told Inside Europe why it?s so important to resolve this crisis.
Eastern Europeans Lend Political Support to GeorgiaState leaders from Poland, three Baltic states and Ukraine flew to Tbilisi this week to express their support for Georgia in the face of what they described as a violation of its territorial integrity by Russia.
The five eastern European leaders called on the West to find a solution to the conflicts plaguing Georgia?s two breakaway regions South Ossetia and Abkhazia. Despite strong opposition from Moscow, Polish President Lech Kaczynski argues NATO membership for countries in the region is the only way to prevent future agression and occupation by Russia.
Georgians Abroad React to the ConflictBeing bystanders watching from afar as the crisis developed hit many Georgians living outside their home country very hard.
While they have not been threatened by Russian air strikes, the psychological toll of watching the events unfold in their home country while far away has been difficult. This week, ex-pat Georgians from all over Germany converged on Berlin to demonstrate in front of the Russian embassy.
What Was the GDR Again?When school?s out for summer, what will German pupils have learned about former Communist East Germany in history lessons?
Berlin?s Free University has completed a three-year survey involving more than 5,000 German pupils and students. They were asked what they knew about the former Communist East Germany which was toppled in a peaceful revolution in 1989. The authors of the study were surprised by how little the students acutally knew about the GDR and how little is taught about the subject in schools across modern day Germany.
The Long Jump from the US to Italy!The Beijing Olympic Games are now into their second week. And while the success of American swimmer Michael Phelps has captured the imagination of sports fans, one of America?s best track and field athletes will not be sporting the red, white and blue.
Andrew Howe is representing Italy at the Olympics, even though he was born in the U.S.A. He?s a speedy sprinter but is limiting himself to the long jump at the Olympics since he?s recovering from an injury. Andrew Howe is on track to gain a medal after winning silver at last year?s world championship.... just don?t expect to hear the Star-Spangled Banner.
Pedestrians in Lodz Beware!Could new legislation have turned the streets of Lodz into a racetrack?
Authorities in Poland?s second largest city of Lodz have decided to legalise street drag car racing, a sport or dangerous past time that has become something of a fad throughout the country. Drivers in Lodz are now allowed to race through city streets at special night time events several times a year without fear of being stopped by the police.
Dream Homes at Prices to Dream OfIt seems the sub-prime crisis is of no concern to wealthy Russians, as they head south to buy up swathes of the French Riviera.
If you?re renting or struggling with a mortgage and rising interest rates then perhaps you won?t want to know that an unnamed Russion billionaire has just spent a record 500-million euros for a luxury property on the French Riviera. The sale of Villa Leopolda, built by King Leopold II of Belgium, has stunned the real estate world. Even property developers used to the whims of Russia?s super rich were flabergasted by the deal that has sparked concerns among locals that Russian investment on the Riveria is out of control. Inside Europe spoke to Dennis Broadfield who runs Totally Riveria, a real estate agency based in Cannes.
Porgy and Bess Head SouthThe famous opera gets a re-working and finds itself thousands of miles from home!
You don?t have to be a connoisseur of music to have heard of Porgy & Bess ? the iconic jazz opera of American composer George Gershwin. Porgy & Bess has played in theatres and opera houses around the globe for decades. However, a new production at the Deutsche Oper is proving to be very popular. Performed by South Africa?s Cape Town Opera Company, the story is set not in the American rural South of the 1920s but the townships of South Africa?s apartheid era during the 1970s.
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Sat, 9 Aug 2008 07:05:00 +0000
This week: Are soldiers welcome in Italy's cities?--Spanish winemakers struggle with rising temperatures--Iranian rappers find creative freedom in Germany--What's life really like inside the corridors of the EU?--The trials and tribulations of a French check-out girl--Why are young Russian artists exhibiting in their own living rooms?--All this plus more on this week's Inside Europe.
Tune in to Inside Europe on the radio or subscribe to the Inside Europe podcast! You can also download the programme from our website. Are soldiers really welcome in Italian cities?Italy is deploying troops in cities across the nation in part of a controversial operation to boost security. For the next 6 months, a total of 3000 soldiers will patrol the streets.
Boosting law and order featured prominently in Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi's election campaign. The soldiers will also guard sensitive sites, such as embassies and immigrant detention centres. The government argues the measures are necessary to meet their promise of getting tough on crime.
Poland's plans to abolish military serviceThe Polish government plans to put an end to conscription before the end of the year. However, Polish President Lech Kaczynski disagrees.
By 2010, Poland's armed forces, currently the largest in Central and Eastern Europe, are to be made up of professional soldiers. Critics doubt they'll be able to recruit enough volunteers. Poland may have seen its last batch of National Service recruits take their oaths. Polish Prime Minister, Donald Tusk, surprised his audience in a speech last weekend, when he announced his plans to abolish military service. Tusk hopes to modernise Polish armed forces in line with those of other European countries. President Lech Kaczynski's spokesman warned of the possibility of a presidential veto. However, many young Polish men greet the news with relief.
Spanish winemakers struggle with rising temperaturesHarvest time is hitting Spanish vineyards earlier and earlier, as climate change poses a huge threat to the industry.
Until now, the impact of climate change has had a positive effect on Spanish grapes. But the continuing trend has begun to pose a challenge for winemakers worldwide. Cutting harmful emissions has become a priority. As vineyard owners experiment with more temperature resistant grape varieties, they're also considering completely relocating.
Life inside the corridors of the EUWhat really goes on inside the European Union bureaucracy? Dutch Journalist and author Derk Jan Eppink has just brought out his "Life of a European Mandarin".
Eppink recalls his experience of working for a senior European Commissioner and the day to day life of bureaucrats in Brussels. He explains how the European Union works in a very different way to other parliamentary or government organisations. Our reporter, Guy Degen, also got an insight into Eppink's suggestions on how the EU could best use it's resources. In "Life of a European Mandarin", Eppink writes that the EU should focus on more specific issues.
The trials and tribulations of a check-out girlSupermarket cashier, Anna Sam's new book "The Trials and Tribulations of a Check-Out Girl" is tipped to be a bestseller.
Anna Sam recounts the exchanges between cashier and customers. As a spokeswoman for downtrodden supermarket cashiers everywhere, she explains how it is on the other side of the till. All this comes after the success of her blog, which has received over 600, 000 visits to date.
Moscow's underground art sceneAs the Russian oligarchs turn to contemporary art, the artists fear over-commercialistation.
Apt-Art is back. The trend of Russian artists exhibiting their work in their own living rooms, common in the Soviet era, has returned to 21st century Moscow. This time round they're struggling against capitalism, not communism.
European Juggling ConventionEverything from three-legged races and unicycle hockey to foot-juggling is taking place at this week's European Juggling Convention in the German city of Karlsruhe.
This year the convention has attracted thousands of professional and amateur jugglers from all over the continent. The convention started in 1979, when it consisted of only 11 artists. Kate Hairsine dusted off her juggling clubs to join the participants.
Dutch folk band revive Pagan music in EuropeThe Dutch band, Omnia, are bringing Pagan music to European stages. Under the motto, "Black is the new Green", they've attracted many fans with their blend of Celtic folk tunes and a back-to-nature philosophy.
Alex Bakst went along to the medieval festival Castlefest in the Netherlands to meet the band. The all-European group, Omnia, has become a flag-bearer for a unique form of Paganism. Neo-Celtic Pagans trace the roots of their movement back to the hippies of the 1960s. Omnia have rediscovered ancient instruments, such as the harp and the hurdy-gurdy. They are currently on tour in Germany, the Czech Republic and the Netherlands.
Iranian rappers find creative freedom in GermanyRap group Tapesh 2012 has been banned from singing in Iran but they refuse to be silenced. They simply relocated to Bochum in western Germany.
Tapesh 2012 are really taking off. Their mixture of rap, reggae and traditional Persian sounds has found fans in Europe. But they really want to tour their home country, Iran. Omid Pur-Yusofi, the band's founder, fled Iran at the age of 14 and has lived in Germany for 22 years now. He wants to be able to perform in Tehran in 2012. Their provocative political lyrics have earned their new song "Ma Mard Nistim" over 100, 000 views on YouTube in only 4 weeks.
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Sat, 2 Aug 2008 07:05:00 +0000
This week: New French law to modernise the economy--Turkish court decides against AKP ban--Spain?s economic crisis worsens--German smokers win the right to light up again in small bars?Can tobacco help clear landmines?--Venice?s Kosher Hotel -- Norway?s chamber music summer and Beach Soccer a new craze in Europe. All this plus more on this week's Inside Europe.Tune in to Inside Europe on the radio or subscribe to the Inside Europe podcast! You can also download the programme from our website.
A visit to Norway and the Risør Festival of Chamber MusicNorway has not got a long history of hosting festivals. But 18 years ago the seaside village of Risör established what has become one of that countries musical gems.
For one week each summer, the sleepy seaside Norwegian village becomes the stage for an international Festival of Chamber Music. At the helm of the event are two of Norway?s most renowned musicians, violist Lars Anders Tomter and the internationally acclaimed pianist Leif Ove Andsnes.
Breandáin O?Shea set sail for the Norwegian port of Risør to enjoy some of the highlights of it?s annual chamber festival.
Reporter: Breandáin O'Shea
Turkish court decides against AKP banTurkey's Constitutional Court has this week decided by a narrow margin not to ban the ruling Justice and Development Party, the AKP. The party was accused of undermining the country's secular system.
Six of the 11 court judges voted in favour of a ban ? one short of a majority. The court has however cut the AK Party?s state funding in half for this year. The court?s president, Hasim Kilic, says the financial sanctions were a "serious warning" to the party. The case to close the A-K Party was launched by Abdurrahman Yalcinkaya - the chief prosecutor of Turkey's Court of Appeal and staunch defender or Turkey?s secular ideals. The case against the AK Party also sought to ban leading party figures including President Abdullah Gul and Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
Interview: Dorian Jones /Guy Degen
Spain?s economic crisis worsensRising levels of unemployment and the pressure of inflation and interest rates point to Spain?s worsening economic problems.
The impact is occurring more rapidly than the government expected and some experts are now describing the situation as a recession. many believe Spain?s economic difficulties stem from the country?s housing market.
Reporter Danny Wood
New French law aims to modernise economyThe word "entrepreneur" is borrowed from the French, but these days it often has more of an anglo-saxon than a gallic connotation. France has long been accused of being anything but friendly to those who are keen to run their own business.
The complaints of red tape and high taxes have seen budding young entrepreneurs voting with their feet and leaving France for better conditions abroad. But now the government is setting about reversing the situation. A new law aims to "modernise the economy" by helping businesses and encouraging a more entrepreneurial society. So how much faith do French entrepreneurs have that France will become more business-friendly in the Sarkozy era?
Reporter Alasdair Sandford
Rising airfares and falling greenback threaten European Tourist tradeTourism is of course big business in Europe and the continent?s tourism industry is highly dependent on the United States.
American holiday makers tend to stay longer in Europe and spend more than any other nationality. Thirteen million of them crossed the Atlantic last year and spent more than ten-billion-dollars in Britain and France alone. But rising airfares and the falling greenback are threatening that trade. And now some European destinations are getting desperate.
Reporter Stephen Beard
German smokers win the right to light up again in small barsGermany's highest court has this week ruled against smoking bans in small bars and clubs.
The court ruled that laws prohibiting smoking in small
bars are unconstitutional. Owners of small one room bars have argued they have no space for a separate smoking room and have lost business since the smoking bans were introduced. The court?s decision flies in the face of a European trend in recent years to crack down on smoking in public places. And, with a third of Germans smoking, it sends lawmakers back to the drawing board to tackle a public health issue.Reporter: Thomas Marzahl
Genetically modified tobacco could help to locate landminesTobacco might be a much maligned plant for our health but it potentially could help to save lives.
A Danish bio-technology firm has genetically modified a tobacco plant to make its leaves change colour - from green to red - when it detects nitrogen dioxide. A compound known to leach into the soil from landmines.
In many parts of the world anti-personnel landmines remain a deadly legacy of conflict that kill thousands of people every year. Clearing mines is a costly, labour intensive and dangerous process.
Sniffer dogs, armoured vehicles and robots can be used to detect and clear mines but much of the work by demining teams must be done manually. Sowing mine infested land with the genetically modified tobacco could help to locate landmines quickly from a distance.
Steen Thaarup is the CEO of Aresa in Copenhagen and says the firm is about to commence field trials in Serbia next week.
Interview: Guy Degen /Steen Thaarup
A visit to Venice?s Kosher HotelA Venetian hotel is now attempting to turn the tide to deliver special services for Jewish tourists.
The charm of Venice?s canals means a hotel room with a canal view is high on the list of priorities for visiting tourists. The sound of water lapping by the window or hearing the banter of gondoliers plying the city?s waterways will always have its romantic appeal. Yet for one group of visitors, Venice hasn?t always been so welcoming or charming.
Reporter Nancy Greenleese
Beach Soccer new craze in EuropeAlthough it won?t be played at the Olympic Games, the Beach Soccer World Cup Final was held last Sunday in Marseilles.
Brazil defeated Italy 5-3 to win the that title. The sport, played bare-foot with five players-a-side, was born on the beaches of Brazil. Now, it?s taking off in Europe, Africa and Asia and this year?s World Cup took place for the first time outside Latin America.
Reporter John Laurenson
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Sat, 26 Jul 2008 07:05:00 +0000
On this week?s programme: Where was Radovan Karadzic?-- European politicians log on to the internet tactics of Barack Obama--German nuclear waste dump site causes alarm--Swedish students watch the wind blow to power cars--Italian town fears tourism--The first Geeknbury Festival-- and where should British politicians spend their summer holidays? All this plus more on Inside Europe
Tune in to Inside Europe on the radio or subscribe to the Inside Europe podcast! You can also download the programme from our website.Geeknbury creates an alternative wifi festivalOne of the delights of the European summer is taking your pick of any number of festivals that might grab your interest. This weekend for instance swing dancers can dance all night in Herräng, Sweden or lovers of the stage can enjoy plenty of theatre in Avignon, France.
But what about a festival for geeks or tech minded people? A celebration of technology meeting culture, food and music, or just having fun in the sun with a beer, wireless internet and some of your favourite gadgets? Christian Payne ? also known online across many social media sites as ?Documentally? ? is the brains behind Geeknbury ? a festival in Surrey for geeks making its debut over this weekend.
Interview Guy Degen /Christian Payne
Containing contamination: why a nuclear waste dump site in Germany is causing alarmA former salt mine in the German state of Lower Saxony is giving authorities and local residents cause for alarm.
In 1965 the Asse-II mine was turned into a temporary storage and research facility for nuclear waste. As the development of nuclear energy boomed, the 1000-metre-deep mine became a permanent disposal site for nuclear material. Between 1967 to 1978, hundreds of thousands of barrels of radioactive waste were disposed in the mine and remain there today. In June this year, news broke that brine, known to be leaking from the mine since 1988, is radioactive ? at some eight times above safe levels. But poor maintenance also means the mine is unstable and in danger of collapsing.
Reporter: Leah McDonnell
Swedish students watch the wind blow to power carsElectric vehicles are becoming more and more common, but there?s a down-side to them all - the electricity they use is often produced through using fossil fuels that pollute the environment.
For example at a coal-fired power station. Now, engineering students in Sweden say they?ve come up with a solution - an electric vehicle which comes with its own wind turbine. And the first to benefit from this technology will be farmers in South America.
Reporter: Lars Bevanger
A town in Tuscany fears tourism could be a trapOnce you?ve been to Aghiari, you may not want to leave, that?s what some of the townspeople are worried about.
The residents of Anghiari in Tuscany dress up in renaissance costume to celebrate a palio that has no horses and where the runners refer to each other as mounts.Reporter: Jean Di Marino
Meet World Music Star Zap Mama
Exploring her African roots and Belgian childhood has had a strong influence on the work of Congolese-born musician Marie Daulne
The daughter of a Belgian timber harvester and a Bantu woman, Marie's family was forced to flee her home in the east of the former Zaire when rebels killed her father. Her mother and three sisters sheltered with pygmies before leaving for a new life in Belgium. The Brussels of Marie Daulne's childhood was anything but cosmopolitan
However, it was music that inspired her to bridge the cultures of her dual heritage. In the early 1990s, she formed the all-woman acapella group Zap Mama, which took world music to a new dimension. Now Marie Daulne is on her own, but she's kept the name Zap Mama and with a new back-up band is touring Europe this summer.
Reporter: Alexa Dvorson
Where was Radovan Karadzic for so long?Bosnian-Serb war crimes suspect Radovan Karadzic was captured in the Serbian capital Belgrade this week. The former Bosnian-Serb president has been indicted for crimes against humanity and genocide over the massacre of up to 8,000 Muslim Bosniaks in Srebrenica in 1995.
Caught with a flowing white beard and glasses, Karadzic has been on the run for nearly 13 years, but managed to live a disguised double life as an alternative healer. In Sarajevo, the arrest of the man who ordered the seige of the Bosnian capital was met with jubilation. James Lyon is the senior Balkan adviser to the International Crisis Group in Belgrade.
Interview: Guy Degen/James Lyon
What the Internet can do for politics in the Old World - Obama in EuropeUS Senator Barack Obama met with several European leaders this week at the end of a world tour.
The centrepiece of the trip for the Democratic Party presidential candidate included a much anticipated public speech in Berlin. Meanwhile, European officials in Brussels have also been closely watching the senator's presidential campaign. They?re keen to learn from the success of Obama's online strategy, which has enabled the Senator to raise millions of dollars and mobilize a new generation of supporters.
Reporter: Alex Bakst
Polish shoppers met with mixed feelingsFor Germans living near Poland, driving across the border to buy cheaper fuel, food, cigarettes and alcohol is a benefit of living close to the border. But in the past few years, Eastern German villages such as Loecknitz, have experienced something quite new.
Poles are increasingly coming over to the German side to live or set up businesses. With a strong Zloty and a booming Polish economy, life in Poland has become more expensive than in some rural regions of eastern Germany.
Reporter: Hardy Graupner
Just where should British politicians spend their summer holidays?Few of us need to justify where we go on holidays, but that?s not the case for politicians.
Wherever they go, be it abroad or somewhere closer to home, the destination and how they spend their time off is always under scruntiny. In light of the pr