Belarus continues its massive repression of independent media, making it one of the most dangerous countries in Europe for journalists. Independent media cannot operate within Belarus, leading outlets like 'Euroradio' to relocate to Poland. The state-run BTRC is the only media operating normally, spreading regime propaganda. Reporters Without Borders' Svoboda satellite channels provide independent journalism to Russian-speaking populations from exile. In Russia, independent media face prohibitions and censorship, especially since the invasion of Ukraine. A small percentage of the Russian population accesses independent information, highlighting the importance of projects like Svoboda for free information flow in Eastern Europe.

Poland ranks first in national cybersecurity according to the National Cybersecurity Index (NCSI), despite being highly threatened by DDoS attacks, with the majority originating from Russia. Cyber Defence Army's Przemyslaw Lipczynski notes Poland's high incidence of DoS attacks. Cybersecurity expert from CyberDefense24.pl highlights frequent attacks on Poland's rail transport authority and suggests Kaliningrad as a source. Felix Aime of Sekoia.io comments on Europe's strong cyber defenses. Euronews reporter Magdalena Chodownik reports that cybercrime costs are projected to exceed $10 billion annually by 2025.

In Poland, there is ongoing chaos in public media following the government's attempt to replace directors and chief editors appointed by the previous administration. The dismissed officials, along with newly appointed heads chosen by Tusk's government, are both showing up to work. Opposition MPs are visiting the broadcasting house, and there is strong criticism of the Culture Minister's actions, which are seen as illegal and expected to be challenged in court. Legal experts, journalists, and NGOs agree that changes in public media were necessary but question the legality of the process. The new leadership of public television is striving to create a media outlet based on European standards but lacks full access to infrastructure. Supporters of the opposition are protesting Tusk's policies, particularly the changes in public media, while the ruling party addresses urgent budget approval and media reforms.

Donald Tusk's new government in Poland has established four new ministries aimed at aligning the country with European values and standards. The Ministry of Industry, located in the mining city of Katowice, will focus on mining and energy issues, particularly mineral fuels. The government also introduced ministries for senior citizens, civil society, and equality, addressing abortion rights and other pressing issues. The Ministry for Equality will include an anti-discrimination commissioner for gender and LGBTQ+ community matters. Activists and experts view these changes positively, seeing them as a significant political gesture and a move towards action. The upcoming administrative and European elections in 2024 will serve as a test for the new government's commitment to its promises.

Following the liberal coalition's parliamentary majority in Poland, there is hope for the reversal of controversial judicial changes made by the Law and Justice Party. Brussels requires an independent judiciary to unfreeze EU funds. Judge Łukasz Mrozek from the Association of Polish Judges and Anna-Maria Zukowska from the New Left Party discuss steps towards depoliticizing the National Judicial Council. Poland received the first 5 of 60 billion euros from EU funds aimed at reducing dependency on Russian fossil fuels. Deputy Foreign Minister Paweł Jabłoński calls for the immediate allocation of funds, stating that the withholding of funds is politically motivated without legal basis. The European Commission recommended allocating 5 billion euros to Poland, separate from funds contingent on judicial system changes.

Polish President Andrzej Duda has tasked Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki, leader of the ruling Law and Justice Party, with forming a government following recent elections. Despite winning the elections, Morawiecki's party lacks a majority in the new Parliament. An opposition coalition, including the Civic Platform led by Donald Tusk, has a parliamentary majority and has signed an agreement indicating a commitment to liberal policies, separation of church and state, and restoration of the rule of law. The opposition alliance aims to rebuild relations with the EU and unblock European funds, contingent on legal reforms in Poland. Razem, part of a left-wing coalition, supports the opposition alliance but did not sign the agreement due to financial guarantees concerns. It is likely that the Law and Justice Party will not find the majority it seeks, and Poland must wait a few weeks before power transitions to the more liberal coalition.

Polish truck drivers have blocked roads to three border crossing points with Ukraine, protesting that they are losing business due to the war and accusing the government of inaction. The blockade aims to prevent Ukrainian trucks from entering, with exceptions for humanitarian aid and assistance to the Ukrainian army. Protesters are angered by Ukrainian carriers offering cheaper services without adhering to European standards. The Ukrainian ambassador called the action a painful stab in the back, but protesters insist on staying until they receive concrete proposals. Previously, the market was regulated, but in 2022 the EU lifted the permit system for Ukrainian commercial carriers to aid the war-affected country. Experts suggest that improving cross-border transport and leveling the competitive playing field are essential, and negotiations with Ukraine are crucial. The Medyka border crossing remains open, but protesters do not rule out blocking other checkpoints if their demands are not met.

Polish truck drivers are blocking three border crossings with Ukraine, protesting against unfair competition as Ukrainian truckers are exempt from paying entry permits into the EU. This exemption was granted to support Ukraine's economy after Russia's invasion. The protesters claim they have lost business and demand action from the Polish government, which has yet to propose a solution. Exceptions to the blockade include humanitarian aid to Ukraine.

Poland is shifting towards liberal left forces as three opposition alliances gain enough votes to potentially unseat the ruling nationalist conservative party. The 'Third Way' block, one of the winners, sees itself as a mediator for a new chapter in Polish politics. Despite 'Law and Justice' taking first place in the elections, opposition parties are urging the president to bypass the formality of government formation. The opposition, including Donald Tusk's 'Civic Coalition,' 'Third Way,' and 'New Left,' campaigned on different platforms but shared a promise to defeat 'Law and Justice.' Leaders like Donald Tusk aim to restore tense relations with the EU, while liberal activists express satisfaction with the election outcome. Final results are awaited until Tuesday.

On October 15, Polish citizens will decide on an election battle that appears to be closely contested. Neither of the two largest parties, Law and Justice and Civic Platform led by Donald Tusk, seem capable of winning an absolute majority, making the third party a likely determinant of Poland's post-election direction. Euronews interviewed representatives from parties likely to claim third place about their terms for a potential government coalition. Mikał Komposko from the centrist Third Way outlined terms for cooperation with Civic Platform, emphasizing a return to Europe, restoration of the rule of law, and improvement of public services. Agata Diduszko-Zyglewska from the New Left discussed being guardians of women's rights and the separation of church and state. The conservative Confederation party, represented by Krzysztof Bosak, is seen as a potential partner for Law and Justice, despite significant differences, particularly on economic issues.

In the upcoming decisive legislative elections in Poland, 45% of voters remain undecided, with a significant portion not intending to vote. Katarzyna Wodniak from Trinity College Dublin notes that undecided women, who tend to be more favorable to democracy and progressive, could sway the elections if they vote. The campaign 'Les femmes aux urnes!' encourages women to vote, emphasizing the potential impact of each vote. Distrust in politicians contributes to a high abstention rate, with 10% of the electorate refusing to vote. Zenobia Zaczek, an activist, expresses a preference for direct democracy over parliamentary democracy, highlighting a lack of control over elected officials' actions.

Slovakia, a strong ally to Ukraine since the Russian invasion in February 2022, may see a shift in its foreign policy depending on the outcome of the upcoming snap parliamentary elections. The pro-Russian SMER party, led by former prime minister Robert Fico, is leading in the polls with a platform that includes halting arms support to Ukraine. This stance is gaining traction among Slovakians who are influenced by Russian propaganda.

Slovakia, which has been supportive of Ukraine by providing weapons, planes, and sheltering refugees, may see a change in its stance as early parliamentary elections approach. Former pro-Russian Prime Minister Robert Fico, leader of the SMER party, is leading in the polls, potentially signaling a shift in the country's allegiance that could result in Ukraine losing one of its closest allies in the region.

Ukrainian children in Poland have begun their second full academic year away from Ukraine. The International Rescue Committee found that 170,000 Ukrainian pupils in Polish schools struggle with language barriers, integration, and trauma. Additionally, an equal number of Ukrainian children are not enrolled in Polish schools, with parents choosing home-schooling, Ukrainian language schools in Poland, or online education.

Polish voters will participate in a four-question referendum on the same day as the general election on 15 October, addressing issues such as retirement age, state asset ownership, border fence with Belarus, and migrant processing rules. The referendum, proposed by the nationalist Law and Justice party, has been criticized by Donald Tusk's Civic Platform party as a distraction from the ruling party's governance record.

The Polish Sejm voted for the ruling Law and Justice Party's proposal to hold a referendum on the same day as the parliamentary elections on October 15, 2023. The referendum has sparked sharp criticism from the opposition and parts of civil society, accusing the ruling party of campaigning through the referendum, attempting to influence voter decisions on election day, and the inappropriateness of the questions. The referendum will address four issues: the sale of state assets to foreign entities, retirement age, potential dismantling of the wall on the Belarusian border, and the resettlement of migrants. The opposition claims the referendum is senseless and accuses the ruling party of using it for their own advantage, with the campaign potentially funded by state resources. Dozens of organizations have also signed a letter to the National Electoral Commission, calling for guidelines that allow voters to refuse to participate in the referendum, which they believe will help voters make a fully informed decision.

Rzeszów, near the Ukrainian border, is one of Poland's greenest cities due to a concerted effort to increase green spaces. Trees significantly lower temperatures, providing natural cooling in urban areas. The city's residents and government collaborated to plant trees, with around 1,000 new trees added this year. Studies indicate that tree coverage can reduce urban heat island effect-related deaths and that proximity to green spaces correlates with biological youthfulness.

Descendants of two Polish victims of Nazism have filed a claim for €4.3 million in compensation against German companies Bayer and Henschel. One victim, Leopold Wiellisz, had his company taken over by Henschel during World War II, while the other, Tadeusz Sledzinski, was sent to a forced labor camp by a subsidiary of Bayer. The case, represented by the Defenders for Defenders War Compensation Foundation, runs parallel to the Polish government's reparations claim against Germany. The German government considers the matter closed, and experts suggest that while World War II crimes remain a serious issue, they do not threaten Polish-German relations. Public opinion in Poland is divided on the issue of reparations.

A Deliveroo rider in north London was stabbed while resisting an attempted robbery by 19-year-old Lewis Livingston from Enfield. The incident, captured on CCTV on July 1, 2023, shows Livingston attacking the rider with a knife in broad daylight. Bystanders intervened, and the victim received first aid before being hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries. Livingston was sentenced to six-and-a-half years after pleading guilty. The victim expressed ongoing shock and fear, while Detective Constable James Hunt commended the public's bravery.

Poland's tourism industry, particularly in Lublin, has been actively supporting Ukrainian refugees following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Hotels like Arche Hotels have offered free temporary housing, while bus companies like FlixBus are providing free transportation. Some hotels, however, have been criticized for raising prices during the crisis. Initiatives also include guided city tours for refugees and cultural trips for children. Airbnb and its nonprofit arm are working to supply free temporary housing, and individuals worldwide are booking Airbnbs in Ukraine to financially support homeowners there.

In Poland, a significant protest movement is growing in response to a top court's decision that imposes a near-total ban on abortion. Demonstrations have continued for six consecutive days, drawing tens of thousands of people from various cities and even small villages. The protests have seen a diverse range of participants, including social groups traditionally viewed as conservative, such as miners and farmers. This widespread mobilization is occurring despite the ongoing pandemic, indicating the depth of feeling against the court's ruling.

In Poland, merchants took to the streets of Warsaw to express their frustration with sanitary measures affecting their businesses. Marek Moliński, an Indian restaurant owner, had to sell his apartment to avoid bankruptcy. Protesters are demanding more support from the authorities. Financial expert Marcin Roszkowski explains that the government is targeting financial aid to the most affected sectors. Medical experts, including Paweł Grzesiowski of the High Medical Council against Covid, stress the importance of maintaining restrictions to prevent a third wave. Despite Poland's threats of veto, the EU has voted on its budget and economic recovery fund, with merchants in Poland, Italy, and Spain hoping for government assistance.

Poland is facing significant protests, the largest in four decades, as the government attempts to pass a stringent abortion law that would include a near-total ban on terminations. This includes cases where the fetus has a condition that would lead to death shortly after birth. The protests have seen Polish women, supported by various age groups, taking to the streets to fight for their bodily autonomy and to challenge both the church's and the state's stance on abortion. Karolina Więckiewicz, a lawyer with Abortion Without Borders, is highlighted for her work in assisting Polish women to obtain safe and legal abortion services abroad. The article also touches on the broader social issues of sex and abortion stigma in Poland.

In Poland, the government is considering enforcing a court ruling that would almost completely ban abortion, leading to widespread protests across Warsaw. These protests have seen the participation of tens of thousands of women, undeterred by the Covid-19 pandemic. The protests are not only about the right to abortion but also express the public's concern over the increasing influence of the Catholic Church on the government. The reporter has documented the efforts of Polish women and men who are actively engaged in defending their rights, indicating a significant pressure on the government.

For over two weeks, fighting in Nagorno-Karabakh between Azerbaijanis and Armenians has resulted in at least 400 casualties and tens of thousands of displaced individuals. The conflict has escalated to a new peak of violence not seen in 30 years, with tensions and hostilities that had been relatively contained in recent years now erupting once again. The war stems from unresolved conflicts, unsettled crimes, pride, and political and economic crises. The current generation is left to resolve the unpaid debts of their parents, being sent to the front lines to continue a war inherited from their ancestors.

Belarusians residing in Poland protested against the disputed election that saw President Alexander Lukashenko secure a sixth term. Protesters called on the Belarusian embassy in Warsaw to support opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, who fled to Lithuania citing election fraud. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo discussed the situation in Belarus during his visit to Warsaw. Poland is preparing for an influx of Belarusians and has set up an €11 million fund to assist them. Reports of torture among detained protesters in Belarus have surfaced. Stepan Svetlov, from Nexta, faces threats of prosecution for running an online news platform. A protester in Warsaw has started a hunger strike demanding EU sanctions against Lukashenko's regime. Polish MP Michal Szczerba expressed solidarity with the protesters outside the European Commission building.

Andrzej Duda, the incumbent president of Poland, has been using anti-LGBT rhetoric as part of his re-election campaign strategy. He has made controversial statements, referring to 'LGBT ideology' as a threat greater than communism, which resonates with his conservative supporters. This stance has been accompanied by certain towns in Poland declaring themselves as 'LGBT-free zones.' The article questions whether the LGBT community and its allies have the capacity to influence the election outcome and prevent Duda from securing another term in office during the final week of the election campaign.

In Poland, various groups including musicians, opposition figures, judges, and journalists are utilizing rap music as a medium to protest against the government's authoritarian actions, particularly those that threaten the independence of the judiciary and press freedom. Meanwhile, President Andrzej Duda has engaged with the genre by releasing a rap in support of healthcare workers battling the COVID-19 pandemic. However, this has not quelled the criticism of the government, especially on the eve of a contentious presidential election, which has been rescheduled to June 28 due to the pandemic.

The article by Magdalena Chodownik recounts the harrowing experiences of Adem, a political prisoner who survived nearly two decades of forced labor in Albania's Spac camp during Enver Hoxha's Stalinist regime. Adem was accused of conspiring against the party and sentenced to 20 years in the notorious camp, where he endured brutal conditions, hard labor, and the constant threat of denunciation and punishment. The camp, modeled after Stalin's gulags, was a place of extreme suffering, with prisoners working in dangerous mines and living in overcrowded cells. The article also touches on the broader context of political repression in Albania, the culture of spying and denunciation, and the aftermath of the regime's fall, including the challenges faced by former prisoners in seeking compensation and reconciliation. The Spac camp, now a decaying ruin, serves as a reminder of the country's dark past, which many Albanians are reluctant to revisit.

The article discusses the plight of Abdul Rahim, a refugee from Myanmar, who resides in Naziratek village near Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh. Rahim and his family are among the unregistered asylum seekers living outside the refugee camps, which means they do not have official refugee status and are ineligible for food rations. The story highlights the dangers faced by refugees attempting to migrate to other countries in search of better conditions. Rahim's son, Mohammed Yasin, endeavored to reach Malaysia by boat for a better life but was captured by a mafia. His family, unable to afford a ransom, has lost contact with him. Additionally, the article mentions the ship El Venizelos, which is used to transport refugees and migrants to Athens from the Greek islands, suggesting a broader context of refugee movement in the region.