Eurotopics.net

Bribes to the tune of around 800,000 euros were allegedly paid in connection with the delivery of 175 diesel and trolley buses made by Polish company Solaris to Riga's transport company Satiksme. In the course of investigations by both the Latvian and Polish anti-corruption authorities several persons have been arrested. Are the authorities finally getting serious about tackling corruption?

A report published by the US Senate confirms the findings of the US intelligence agencies that Russian agents used social media to sway the US presidential election campaign in Donald Trump's favour. Facebook and co. also played a key role in mobilising the yellow vest protests in France.

For several days now thousands of people have taken to the streets in Hungary to protest a new labour law and the policies of the national-conservative government. The rallies are also supported by a broad alliance of opposition parties and unions. The significant mobilisation is mainly the result of strategic mistakes committed by Prime Minister Orbán, commentators believe.

The French Minister of the Interior Christophe Castaner ordered the police to clear the last of the yellow vests' barricades on Monday. Only 33,000 people across the nation took part in the protests on the weekend, according to official accounts. While some commentators see the movement on its last legs, others hope it will get a second wind.

Social networks like Facebook played an important role in mobilising the yellow vest protests in France. French media scientist Frederic Filloux has described Facebook as the "most threatening weapon to democracies". Commentators examine whether this criticism is justified.