European Airports Face Three-Hour Delays from EES
European airports in 15 countries are experiencing delays of up to three hours at border checks due to the new EU Entry/Exit System (EES), which requires non-EU travelers to register personal information and biometrics. Olivier Jankovec, director of the Airports Council International (ACI) European division, warned that the situation could become unmanageable during peak travel months. The EES, which came into full effect on Friday, has already caused significant disruptions, including instances where passengers missed flights due to lengthy processing times.
Fico Faces Backlash Over Mail Voting Proposal
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico is facing significant opposition to his proposal to eliminate mail voting for Slovaks living abroad, a move critics argue targets pro-Western voters ahead of the 2027 parliamentary elections. Thousands protested in Bratislava and other cities on April 14, 2026, following the recent electoral defeat of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, with opposition leader Michal Šimečka warning that the changes threaten democracy. In the 2023 elections, nearly 59,000 Slovaks abroad voted by mail, with over 80% supporting opposition parties, while Fico's Smer party garnered just 6.1%.
EU Green Label Proposal Sparks Controversy in Steel Industry
The European Union's proposal to grant a green label to coal-fired steelmakers has raised concerns among environmentalists, as it is viewed as a significant win for German blast-furnace operators. The German Steel Federation (WV Stahl) has welcomed the initiative, which is part of a broader EU Automotive Package aimed at reducing tailpipe emissions by 90% from 2035, allowing for offsets through low-carbon steel. Despite this support, industry stakeholders are apprehensive about high energy prices and have called for measures to ensure competitiveness in the steel sector.
UK to Rejoin Erasmus Program in 2027
The UK and the European Union have signed legal texts to allow Britain to rejoin the Erasmus student exchange program, effective in 2027, five years after its departure due to Brexit. More than 100,000 students, apprentices, and young people are expected to benefit in the first year, with the UK contributing £570 million ($774 million) towards the scheme's costs, reflecting a 30% discount on the default contribution rate. The British Council will serve as the UK's national agency for the program, facilitating participation and collaboration.
