The repression of dissenting voices in Russia continues unabated as the year draws to a close. According to the Russian NGO OVD-Info, nearly 20,000 Russians have been arrested since the start of the conflict in Ukraine for protesting against Kremlin policies. And 783 individuals became defendants on the ANTI-WAR case by the end of November 2023
The latest victims: two poets who took part in a reading against the war in Ukraine, sentenced on December 28, 2023 by a Moscow court to five-and-a-half and seven-year prison terms. The two men were convicted of inciting hatred towards members of armed groups in the Donbass region and “public calls to commit activities against state security”.
In September 2022, a criminal case was opened against Artem Kamardin, Yegor Shtovba and Nikolai Daineko, three participants in a public poetry reading in Moscow, near the statue of the poet Mayakovsky, a traditional gathering place for government opponents and dissidents since Soviet times. Kamardin read the poem “Kill me, militiaman”. The investigation found that the poet, with this poem, stirred up hatred towards “participants in hostilities in the LPR and DPR”.
According to the investigators, Kamardin called in verse for “not accepting” summonses from representatives of military registration and enlistment offices, “not signing” documents confirming receipt of summonses and “not appearing” on them.
Shtovbu and Daineko are considered Kamardin’s “accomplices” because they “repeated Kamardin’s work aloud”.
Daineko reached a pre-trial agreement during the investigation. His case was dealt with separately and, in May, he was sentenced to 4 years’ imprisonment in a general regime colony. After appeal, the sentence was confirmed.
Kamardin was sentenced to seven years’ imprisonment in a general-regime colony under articles on incitement to hatred and public calls for action against state security. Shtovba was sentenced to five and a half years in a general-regime colony on the same charges.
A dozen people were arrested near the court after the verdict was announced, including journalists and members of a support group.
Artem Kamardin’s wife, Alexandra Popova, was dragged out of the courtroom after shouting “Shame!” Then three other people were arrested as they left the courtroom, including SOTAvision correspondent Evgeniy Kurakin and a RusNews journalist who was later released. A support group published the video shot by Popova while she and the other detainees were in the police van.
Alexandra Popova was finally released from the Krasnoselsky district police department, she reported on the support group’s telegram channel.
According to her, the security forces are considering releasing some of the detainees. Three people were kept overnight for taking part in an unauthorized gathering near the courthouse.
The others arrested at the courthouse were released, but were charged with “violation of assembly procedure”.
Let’s provide an overview of the key policy areas and responsibilities of the Belgian presidency of the European Union, highlighting its focus on various thematic areas such as enlargement, foreign affairs, economic governance, migration, health, social policy, green and digital transition, research and innovation, energy, environment, education, and culture.
Belgium’s presidency of the European Union will prioritize key thematic areas such as enlargement, cohesion policy, and preparation for the next institutional cycle. Additionally, it will focus on multilateral cooperation, peace, security, and development in foreign affairs. The presidency also aims to address economic governance, financial support for Ukraine, and the VAT gap in economic & financial affairs.
Furthermore, it prioritizes migration and asylum reform, as well as combating organized crime and terrorism in justice and home affairs. In the health sector, efforts will be made towards strengthening the EU’s resilience to health threats and improving medicine supply. The presidency also emphasizes the need for a stronger social safety net and gender equality in employment and social policy.
Moreover, it places emphasis on the green and digital transition, fair competition for businesses, and future-ready policies in the internal market and industry. The agenda also includes a focus on open strategic autonomy, research valorization, and space activities in research, innovation, and space. Addressing energy security, affordability, and accelerating energy transition in the energy sector is another priority.
Lastly, the presidency is committed to addressing climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution, and implementing the European Green Deal in the environment sector.
Key Policy Areas
Belgium’s presidency will prioritize decisions related to EU enlargement for Ukraine, Moldova, Georgia, and the Western Balkans. It will also focus on regulations and considerations for genetically modified crops and food, with an emphasis on new genomic techniques and strict regulations.
Additionally, the presidency aims to coordinate essential goods, services, and workers during emergencies through the Single Market Emergency Instrument. Furthermore, it seeks to reduce legal battles over royalty rates through legislation on standard essential patents. The Net Zero Industry Act is also a key policy area, aiming to restore the EU’s green energy industries.
Moreover, the European Health Data Space will impact reshaping the sharing of health data for primary patient care and research. Proposed changes in the EU’s pharmaceutical rules and their implications for drugmakers are also on the agenda. The Right to Repair Directive aims to make it easier and cheaper for people to fix their broken electronics. Lastly, the presidency will work towards the objectives of the proposed 5G rollout plan and the Gigabit Infrastructure Act to allow a faster and cheaper rollout of 5G and fiber networks in Europe.
Responsibilities of the Belgian Presidency
The Belgian presidency plays a crucial role in driving forward the Council’s work on EU legislation and representing the Council in relations with other EU institutions. It chairs meetings in the Council and its preparatory bodies, and organizes formal and informal meetings. Additionally, the presidency collaborates closely with the President of the European Council and the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy.
Significance of Belgium’s Presidency
Belgium’s presidency of the European Union holds significance in a challenging time for the EU. It plays a vital role in defending the rule of law, democracy, and unity, as well as other thematic areas. The presidency aims to strengthen the EU and make progress in crucial areas such as climate change, economic growth, and social cohesion.
Conclusion
The Belgian presidency’s agenda encompasses a wide array of policy areas and responsibilities crucial for the EU’s future direction. It is essential to recognize and engage with the impact of the presidency on shaping the EU’s legislative and policy agenda, encouraging further awareness and involvement [1,2,4].
A team of Chinese scientists has developed a yarn fiber with exceptional thermal insulation inspired by polar bear fur, Xinhua reports. According to a study published in the journal Science, this encapsulated airgel fiber is washable, dyeable, durable and can be used in modern textiles.
Airgel fibers generally lack the strength and stretch needed to be woven into fabrics and lose their insulating properties in wet or humid conditions. However, researchers at Zhejiang University took inspiration from polar bears’ unique fur, which effectively keeps them warm and dry. According to the study, fur hairs have a porous core enclosed within the dense structure of the sheath.
By mimicking the structure of the core and sheath of bear hair, the researchers created a tough airgel fiber with lamellar pores that effectively traps infrared radiation near the skin and retains its mechanical strength, making it suitable for knitting or weaving.
According to the study, the fiber retains its thermal insulation properties with minimal change even after 10,000 repeated stretching cycles at 100 percent loading. The research team tested the fiber in a thin sweater, which, despite being about one-fifth the thickness of a down jacket, has thermal insulation properties comparable to those of a thick jacket.
According to the researchers, this “thinned” clothing design provides rich opportunities for the development of multifunctional airgel fibers and textiles in the future.
Illustrative Photo by Pixabay: https://www.pexels.com/photo/close-photography-of-white-polar-bear-53425/
An overview of the most well-known e-banks in Europe, including N26, Revolut, Wise, and others, along with a comparison of their services, fees, and customer satisfaction, as well as tips for choosing the right e-bank for online banking needs.
Overview of Top European E-Banks
Les principales banques électroniques d’Europe ont révolutionné le paysage bancaire grâce à leurs services et fonctionnalités innovants. N26 , par exemple, se distingue en offrant des avantages assurtech et un compte courant de base et une carte de débit gratuits, ce qui en fait un choix populaire pour les particuliers à la recherche de solutions bancaires pratiques et flexibles [2]. D’autre part, Revolut s’est démarqué en se concentrant sur les transferts et les voyages internationaux, offrant à ses clients des frais peu élevés et d’excellents taux de change pour les transferts et les dépenses dans le monde entier. Cela a positionné Revolut comme une option incontournable pour ceux qui effectuent fréquemment des transactions ou des voyages internationaux [1].
En outre, Wise s’est imposée comme une banque électronique de choix pour les transactions internationales, proposant des comptes de dépenses en devises étrangères à faible coût et un support mondial pour les guichets automatiques. Cette fonctionnalité a rendu Wise particulièrement attrayant pour les particuliers et les entreprises engagés dans le commerce mondial, les voyages ou les envois de fonds [1][2]. Tomorrow, en mettant l’accent sur la durabilité, a attiré des clients qui privilégient les services bancaires éthiques et respectueux de l’environnement, proposant des comptes bancaires adaptés aux consommateurs soucieux de la durabilité [1]. De plus, Vivid Money a attiré l’attention pour ses diverses options d’investissement, répondant à la fois aux préférences d’investissement traditionnelles et modernes, attirant ainsi un large éventail d’investisseurs et de passionnés de la finance.
These e-banks have not only diversified the banking options available to consumers but have also set new standards for convenience, flexibility, and specialization, thereby enhancing the overall banking experience for individuals and businesses across Europe [1][2][3].
Services and Features Comparison
When comparing the services and features of the top European e-banks, it’s evident that each bank offers unique and tailored benefits to its users. For instance, N26 is known for its insurtech benefits, making it an attractive option for individuals looking for additional insurance perks tied to their banking services. Moreover, N26 provides a free basic current account and debit card, which is advantageous for those seeking essential banking services without the burden of monthly fees [2].
On the other hand, Revolut has carved a niche for itself in the realm of international transfers and travel. With its low fees and excellent exchange rates for both transfers and spending worldwide, Revolut is a popular choice for individuals who frequently engage in international transactions or travel. This makes it an appealing option for users who prioritize cost-effective and efficient cross-border financial activities [1].
Another key player in the European e-banking landscape is Wise, which excels in facilitating international transactions. Wise’s provision of low-cost foreign currency spending accounts, coupled with global ATM support, makes it a preferred choice for individuals and businesses engaged in global commerce. The ability to seamlessly conduct international transactions with favorable exchange rates and minimal fees positions Wise as an attractive e-bank for those with international financial needs [1][2].
In addition, Tomorrow focuses on sustainability and offers bank accounts tailored for sustainability-conscious consumers, appealing to individuals who prioritize ethical and environmentally friendly financial services. Furthermore, Vivid Money’s offerings include a diverse range of traditional and modern investment options, catering to users seeking investment opportunities alongside their banking services [1]. These diverse features and services highlight the versatility and specialization of the top European e-banks, providing users with a plethora of options to align with their specific financial preferences and requirements.
Fees, Interest Rates, and Customer Satisfaction Comparison
When it comes to fees, interest rates, and customer satisfaction, the top online banks in Europe offer competitive advantages. For instance, N26, a prominent e-bank, provides a free basic current account and debit card with no monthly fees, making it an attractive option for those seeking cost-effective banking solutions [2]. Additionally, Revolut is known for its low fees and great exchange rates for transfers and spending worldwide, which has contributed to its popularity among users for international transactions and travel [1]. This emphasis on low fees and favorable exchange rates not only saves customers money but also reflects a commitment to providing value and customer satisfaction.
Moreover, Wise stands out for its low-cost foreign currency spending accounts and global ATM support, ensuring that customers can access their funds conveniently and affordably, regardless of their location [1][2]. The combination of these features has solidified Wise’s reputation as a go-to e-bank for international transactions and currency exchange. The emphasis on customer satisfaction is evident through the consistent positive feedback from users, which underlines the significance of a seamless, cost-effective banking experience in today’s digital landscape.
In addition to competitive fees and rates, the customer satisfaction levels of these online banks are a testament to their commitment to providing exceptional service. The positive customer feedback on platforms like Trustpilot and the App Store further reinforces the notion that N26, Revolut, and Wise are not only cost-effective but also highly regarded by their users, making them stand out in the European digital banking space [1].
Advantages of Using E-Banks for Online Banking
In addition to the convenience and accessibility that e-banks offer, there are various other advantages associated with using them for online banking in Europe. One of the key benefits is the ability to access banking services with low fees. For instance, N26, a prominent e-bank, provides a free basic current account and debit card, making it an attractive option for individuals seeking cost-effective banking solutions. Similarly, Wise is known for its low fees and excellent exchange rates for transfers and spending globally, which can result in significant cost savings for users who frequently engage in international transactions.
Moreover, the easy application process is another advantage of e-banks, as it enables individuals to open accounts without the complex paperwork and eligibility requirements often associated with traditional banks. With digital banks like Revolut, bunq, and Wise, the application process for opening a European bank account online is streamlined and user-friendly, allowing customers to establish their accounts efficiently and conveniently [1]. This streamlined process is particularly appealing to those who value simplicity and time efficiency in managing their finances.
Furthermore, the availability of convenient web and mobile apps is a significant advantage of e-banks. These apps empower users to manage their finances on the go, check their balances, make transactions, and access customer support seamlessly. Revolut, for example, is recognized for its comprehensive mobile app, offering features like international transfers, travel-related services, and various financial management tools, enhancing the overall user experience [1]. This level of accessibility and functionality is crucial for individuals with dynamic lifestyles and a reliance on digital banking platforms for their financial needs.
Tips for Choosing the Right E-Bank
In addition to the factors mentioned above, individuals can also take into account the specific financial services and features offered by different e-banks when choosing the right one for their online banking needs. For instance, if an individual frequently engages in international transactions, they might prioritize e-banks that offer low fees and favorable exchange rates for such transactions. Revolut and Wise are known for their focus on international transfers and spending, making them suitable choices for individuals with these requirements.
Moreover, the ease of opening an account and the availability of customer support can also be crucial factors for individuals when choosing an e-bank. Some individuals may prioritize e-banks that offer seamless online account opening processes and responsive customer support to address any queries or concerns. For example, Anytime is recognized for its human customer service and provides both personal and business accounts, catering to a wide range of banking needs with a focus on customer support.
Furthermore, the security measures implemented by e-banks to protect customer data and transactions should be carefully evaluated by individuals. A strong emphasis on security features, such as two-factor authentication and encryption protocols, can be a deciding factor for individuals seeking a reliable and secure online banking experience. Therefore, considering the integrity of the e-bank’s security infrastructure is essential for individuals looking to choose the right e-bank for their online banking needs.
The former Metropolitan of Klin, Leonid (Gorbachev), who became known as the “Exarch of the Moscow Patriarch in Africa”, was permanently removed from a church career by St. Synod of the Russian Church. In October of this year, he was removed from his post in Africa and sent to head the Yerevan-Armenian Diocese of the Russian Orthodox Church, where the Russian Church has a small community. At its last meeting on December 27, the Russian synod stripped him of that position as well, without explanation, and sent him “to rest,” which is the Church’s term for sending him into retirement.
Retirement (resignation) of a bishop in the Russian Orthodox Church usually takes place upon reaching the age of 75, most often “in gratitude for his work”. Former Metropolitan Leonid (Gorbachev) is still young – he is 55 years old (born in 1968), and no thanks have been given to him. The Russian media commented on the unofficial information that the decision was due to “creating gross interpersonal and inter-church conflicts”.
In 2021, the ROC launched a criminal action under the jurisdiction of the Patriarchate of Alexandria for entering into communion with the Orthodox Church of Ukraine. Several Russian clerics were sent there to tear off parishes of the Patriarchate of Alexandria and make new church structures on the African continent. In his capacity as “African Exarch”, Metropolitan Leonidas had threatened that “very soon Patriarch Theodore will sign the act of complete capitulation of the Patriarchate of Alexandria”. He was overthrown by St. Synod of the Patriarchate of Alexandria for schismatic activity in its jurisdiction, of which all local Orthodox churches were notified. Although the Bulgarian St. The Synod did not dare to condemn the Russian actions in Africa, the Bulgarian metropolitans decided to “refrain from communion” with the overthrown cleric.
After the assassination of Metropolitan Leonid’s patron and sponsor Yevgeny Prigozhin, the aspiring bishop fell out of favor and was removed from his post of “African Exarch”.
According to observers, the Kremlin’s interest in the “African mission” of the Russian Orthodox Church has declined, and after the death of Prigozhin, the activities of the “Russian missionaries” were left without funding.
In the circles of the Alexandrian Church, they comment with bitter irony that, although the removal from office of the odious bishop did not take place according to the proper church-canonical order, God found a way to implement the decision of their synod.
The operations were carried out in nine districts of the country at the end of last year.
Officials of Turkey’s National Intelligence Organization (MIT) and Security Directorate have arrested three leaders of the Islamic State (ISIS) and 29 others suspected of planning attacks on synagogues and churches, as well as the Iraqi embassy in Turkey. This was announced by the Minister of Internal Affairs, Ali Yerlikaya, on the X social platform, TRT Haber state television reported.
The operations were carried out in nine districts of the country, including Istanbul and Ankara. The so-called “commanders”, who are reported to be foreign nationals with Arabic surnames, have confessed to preparing the attacks, Turkish TV said. During the interrogations, the detainees revealed details about the structure and activities of ISIS in Turkey and Syria.
As part of the operations, digital materials related to the organization’s activities were seized, added Ali Yerlikaya, noting that for the last six months, nearly 730 operations against the Islamic State were carried out in the country, during which 98 terrorists were “neutralized” and 1254 people were arrested.
Turkish authorities use the term “neutralization” to mean that the terrorists in question have surrendered, been killed or captured.
Russian police detained 3000 migrants across the country in New Year’s Eve rallies. Dozens of them face deportation. This is reported by Russian media.
Around 3000 migrants were detained in Russia’s second-largest city of St Petersburg during crime prevention checks.
“As it turned out, more than 600 of the migrants were in Russia for various violations of the migration legislation,” reports RIA, citing its sources.
More than 100 of them faced deportation.
A man from Tajikistan dressed as Santa Claus is among the migrants detained in Moscow.
In the west-central Russian city of Chelyabinsk, Russia’s main investigative body, the Investigative Committee, said it was opening a criminal case against three migrants for hooliganism against Russian servicemen and their wives.
“A mob of drunken migrants attacked two young men demobilized from the front line, and one soldier was hit with a baton, the Committee reported on the messaging application Telegram. It was also noted that the migrants insulted the wives of veterans of the special military operation.
Russia continues to officially call the war against Ukraine a “special military operation”.
The committee said it had also launched an investigation into illegal activities by migrants in the Sverdlovsk region of Russia’s Ural Mountains and in the Moscow region.
Many migrants, mostly from neighboring Central Asian countries such as Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan and Armenia, come to Russia in search of work.
President Vladimir Putin said in December that there were more than 10 million migrant workers in Russia.
“This is not an easy problem,” he admitted during his annual press conference.
“Sicilian violet” is called the purple cauliflower that grows in Italy, and it is no worse than the regular one, but its color is quite unusual. This vegetable is a cross between broccoli and regular cauliflower. Its use in the kitchen is very aesthetic and classy, because it allows to prepare garnishes, soups and purées with a characteristic violet color. In Sicily, purple cauliflower is still a niche product and is mainly grown in organic farms.
It is rich in fiber and vitamin C, as well as vitamin K and A, as well as group B and also selenium, which strengthen our immune system. The vegetable is an excellent antioxidant. It prevents the clogging of blood vessels, the formation of blood clots and heart diseases.
It has flavonoid compounds called anthocyanins, which give it its purple color and are thought to help regulate blood lipid and sugar levels, as well as help reduce the risk of cancer. It is rich in tannins and is suitable for eating raw.
Cauliflower consists of 92% water, 5% carbohydrates and 2% vegetable protein. There are 25 kcal in 100 grams of raw product, which makes it ideal for a low-calorie diet. It can be stored for up to a week in a paper or plastic bag in the refrigerator. Once cooked, cauliflower should be eaten within two to three days.
Sautéing or roasting is supposed to preserve more of its nutrients than steaming. Once steamed or roasted, cauliflower can be eaten as is or incorporated into another dish. It is often used as an ingredient in various cream soups, purees, caviar and snacks. Purple cauliflower appears to have originated in Sicily, from a local population of cauliflower known as Violetto di Sicilia. The purple color does not come from genetic mutations, but from natural selection made by man. The purple variant is especially common in southern Italy and South Africa.
There are different types of cauliflower that differ mainly in color. White cauliflower is the most common, the orange variety is only found in certain soil in Canada and contains more vitamin A than the white. Green cauliflower can be found mainly in Europe and the USA. As already mentioned, cauliflower is very rich in dietary fiber, which helps keep the digestive system healthy. The presence of glucoraphin is another property of cauliflower and helps prevent stomach cancer as well as ulcers. It contains a large amount of antioxidants and therefore helps in the fight against cardiovascular diseases. Cauliflower has the ability to eliminate cancer-causing enzymes. It is anti-inflammatory and helps prevent arthritis and obesity.
In Catania, poached cauliflower is also used to fill scacciata. It is a rustic cake made in a stone oven, with various toppings inside. This sweet is very popular on Christmas Eve and New Year. There are many variations, namely with broccoli, with thuma and anchovies, with ricotta, with potatoes, onions, black olives, premium sheep’s cheese.
The sounds that usually cause problems for people are either very loud or very high pitched.
“Some common examples of very loud or high-frequency sounds are car alarms going off near you or an ambulance passing by on the street,” says Jodi Sasaki-Miraglia, director of professional education programs at hearing aid manufacturer Widex USA.
“Other common examples are fireworks, loud construction noises or music at a concert.”
Of course, in the case of the smoke alarm and the ambulance siren, it could be argued that their whole point is to sound loud to attract attention. In most cases, you won’t be exposed to these noises for very long. But a concert is likely to last several hours, and if you’re unlucky enough to live across from a construction site, you know all too well how painful it can be to listen to humming for days on end.
While these situations are annoying for everyone, for some people sensitivity to sound is a very real problem that affects them on a daily basis.
Why does this happen to them?
Loudness Discomfort Levels
Louder, higher-pitched sounds are generally more uncomfortable to listen to than quieter, lower-pitched sounds. But people’s tolerance to them can vary. Fortunately, there is a handy test that an audiologist can perform to determine your unique level of loudness discomfort.
“The Cox test, created by the late Dr. Robin Cox, PhD, of the University of Memphis, Hearing Aid Research Laboratory, is used frequently in audiology clinics today,” says Sasaki-Miraglia. In it, the patient listens to a series of low to high sounds and judges how loud they seem to him on a seven-point scale. Based on the results, the audiologist gets an idea of the baseline of a person’s level of discomfort and will be able to adequately adapt the hearing aid they may need.
But what are the causes of sensitivity to sound?
“Lower sensitivity values are typically seen in people with specific types of hearing loss, such as noise-induced or sensorineural [which affects the inner ear structures or auditory nerves],” explains Sasaki-Miraglia.
“People who experience ringing or tinnitus, or those who have auditory processing problems, may also have lower than expected discomfort values.”
There are also different conditions that make people sensitive to sounds differently.
One example is hyperacusis, which can sometimes be the result of other medical problems such as Lyme disease or migraines. As Sasaki-Miraglia explains, “hyperacusis is not related to loud sounds. In this condition, sounds that seem ‘normal’ in loudness to most people can be unbearably loud to sufferers.” This means that something as simple as the jingling of coins in one’s pocket can sound unbearably loud and even painful.
Other people experience irrational anger at certain noises, which is due to misophonia. Recent research has shown that this condition is more common than previously thought, affecting up to one in five people in the UK alone.
A study shows that sounds that people with misophonia find intolerable actually activate neural circuits that control facial muscle movement, and are not a problem with the brain’s auditory processing system, as might be expected. This seems to give people the feeling that these sounds are “entering” their own body, leading to feelings of anger or disgust.
Sasaki-Miraglia says common triggers are the noises of other people “chewing, breathing or clearing their throats.”
In some people, the dislike of loud noises can develop into a full-blown anxiety disorder called phonophobia. It is not necessarily related to hearing problems, but may be more common in people with sensory processing difficulties – such as can be found in autistic people – and in migraine sufferers. Like any phobia, phonophobia is an extreme, irrational fear, and sufferers may experience panic when exposed to loud noises, or even just the threat of them.
But just as one person’s trash is another’s treasure, so the sound sensitivity coin has two sides. Certain sounds that cause sensitivity and even misophonia in some people can be absolute bliss for others. A recent trend on TikTok demonstrates this in a great way: when people started rolling breakable objects – especially glass bottles – down stairs…
This symphony of banging and breaking would make many people cover their ears, but others swear it induces a joyous sensation called Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR), sometimes more eloquently known as a “brain orgasm.” Those who experience this reaction often describe it as a relaxing, tingling sensation triggered by a variety of sounds—for some, it’s glass breaking, for others, whispering, tapping, even hair brushing.
Is there a way to treat sound sensitivity?
“If you have sound sensitivity, the best course of action is to seek advice from a licensed audiologist,” says Sasaki-Miraglia. “He will provide you with a comprehensive assessment, treatment options and targeted education for your individual sound sensitivity condition. It is not unusual to find several contributing factors.”
It is important to seek individual medical advice as the treatment of hyperacusis or tinnitus in one person may be very different to another.
If your sensitivity to sound is causing you anxiety, meaning you may have phonophobia, different treatments may be suggested by a mental health professional, such as cognitive behavioral therapy.
We all have to deal with annoying noises from time to time, but sometimes that annoyance can turn into something much more. If sensitivity to sounds is affecting your normal life, it may be time to seek medical advice – there may be more treatment options than you think!
As Sasaki-Miraglia concludes, “No matter the cause, proper consultation and diagnosis by an audiologist can improve patient outcomes and your quality of life.”
As Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) navigate the complexities of legislating for the European Union, scrutinizing the financial aspects of their compensation becomes imperative when knowing they can get circa 18000 euros monthly potentially tax-free. This critical analysis not only dissects the structure of their remuneration but also exposes instances of misuse and the apparent lack of transparency surrounding the actual figures involved.
MEPs receive a basic salary subject to taxation, aiming to establish parity among member states. As of 01/07/2023, the monthly pre-tax salary of MEPs under the single statute is €10.075,18. After the deduction of EU taxes and insurance contributions, the net salary amounts to €7,853.89. Importantly, Member States may opt to subject this salary to national taxes as well. Contrary to popular belief, MEPs do not enjoy a tax-free income; they pay both EU taxes and potentially national taxes, contingent on the legislation of their home country (Example of Ireland).
Additional Allowances:
While allowances like the daily allowance for attending parliamentary sessions appear justified, concerns linger about potential abuse. Reports of MEPs claiming allowances without active participation in parliamentary activities raise questions about the effectiveness of oversight mechanisms. The daily allowance, meant to cover expenses during sessions in Brussels or Strasbourg, stands at around €320 per day (which if they attend 20 days per month would be 6400€).
The general expenditure allowance, intended for office-related expenses, faces criticism due to its broad scope and vague guidelines. This lump sum, roughly €4,513 per month, lacks specificity, allowing for potential misuse without stringent accountability for taxpayer money.
Special Parliamentary Allowance:
The special parliamentary allowance, earmarked for specific parliamentary expenses, has faced allegations of misuse. Instances of questionable expenses related to telecommunications and equipment expenditures draw attention to the need for tighter controls. The actual figures associated with this allowance remain elusive, contributing to the perception of opacity.
Pension Scheme:
The pension scheme, providing financial security post-service, has been criticized for its perceived generosity. The lack of a direct link between MEPs’ performance and pension benefits raises questions about the incentive structure during their tenure. The exact figures allocated to the pension scheme from the European Parliament’s budget remain undisclosed, further complicating the assessment of its appropriateness.
MEPs can get circa 18000€ monthly, A Closer Look Beyond the Numbers 10
In one instance, there was a report about an MEP hailing from Scotland who allegedly hired his wife and paid her an annual salary of approximately €25,000. This raised concerns regarding favouritism and the appropriate utilization of allowances. Furthermore, a French MEP was instructed by the EU Court of Justice to reimburse €300,000, for misappropriated funds. These instances shed light on instances where MEPs have exploited the salary and allowance system.
Conclusion:
The compensation and funds allotted to Members of the European Parliament, when dissected with a critical lens, reveal not only the figures involved but also instances of misuse and transparency gaps. A clear understanding of the actual amounts disbursed is crucial for public discourse and oversight.
To regain public trust, the European Parliament must address these concerns head-on. A comprehensive review of the compensation structure, coupled with stringent oversight mechanisms and transparent reporting, is essential. Only through a commitment to responsible financial practices can the European Parliament demonstrate its dedication to serving the best interests of its citizens.
