Temperatures plunged to their lowest so far this winter as a weather system forecasters have widely dubbed the "Beast from the East"

UK records lowest temperature in the decade as snowstorm hits Europe

The European Commission’s Vice President for the economy Valdis Dombrovskis said that Europe’s economy is likely to rally in the second quarter as an acceleration in Coronavirus vaccine roll-out allows governments to gradually lift lockdown restrictions.

World Business Watch: EU economy to rally in second-quarter as vaccine roll-out accelerates

Anti-lockdown protests and demonstrations have continued in some European countries as citizens grew tired of necessary by inconvenient coronavirus restrictions. While this is the case in some countries, others are witnessing bad weather forcing citizens to stay at home. Here's a look at situation

Denmark

Hundreds of people took to the streets of Copenhagen on Saturday night to protest Denmark's Covid-19 restrictions and the country's plans for a digital vaccination certificate. 
Organised by a group calling itself "Men in Black Denmark," some 600 people gathered in the bitter cold in front of the parliament building to protest the "dictatorship" of Denmark's partial lockdown.

Main target of people's anger was plan for digital vaccine "passport". Denmark is planning to develop a digital certificate of COVID-19 vaccination for travel.

It could also potentially be used for sports and cultural events as well as restaurants.

Protest organisers say such a passport implies an obligation to be vaccinated and amounts to a further restriction on individual freedom. Vaccination is not compulsory in Denmark.

Demonstrators, including some wearing hoods, marched with torches in the centre of the Danish capital, chanting "we have had enough" and "freedom for Denmark."

Protesters carried a picture of Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen made to look like North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un.

Switzerland

Some 500 protesters marched through the Swiss tax haven of Zug on Saturday (February 6), wearing white protective suits and chanting dystopian slogans to voice displeasure with rules aimed at limiting the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The demonstration was reminiscent of Vienna rally where thousands faced-off against police and opposed country's even-stricter lockdown.

Though Switzerland's restrictions have been less severe than those in Germany, Austria or Italy -- restaurants and non-essential shops are closed but ski areas are open -- there is still a steady buzz of opposition.

In Zug, police watched but did not intervene as a group of protesters filed from the train station to the centre of the lakeside city known for shell companies with letter-box addresses and attractive tax rates.

Netherlands

The Netherlands was set to enter an even stricter lockdown as forecasts of heavy snow and strong winds on Sunday triggered the country`s first nationwide weather alert in nine years.

The government on Saturday issued a plea for citizens to stay at home as national weather institute KNMI issued a "code red" for the entire country, warning that icy winds of up to 90 km (56 miles) per hour and up to 20 centimetres (8 inches) of snow could lead to hazardous snowdrifts on roads and limited visibility.

All coronavirus testing facilities will be closed on Sunday, health authorities said, while train services will be cut to a minimum level and major supermarkets cancelled deliveries after deciding it would be too dangerous to send drivers out.

(With agency inputs)

Anti-lockdown protests and demonstrations have continued in some European countries as citizens grew tired of necessary by inconvenient coronavirus restrictions.

Anti-lockdown protests and demonstrations have continued in some European countries as citizens grew tired of necessary by inconvenient coronavirus restrictions. While this is the case in some countries, others are witnessing bad weather forcing citizens to stay at home. Here's a look at situation Denmark Hundreds of people took to the streets of Copenhagen on Saturday night to protest Denmark's Covid-19 restrictions and the country's plans for a digital vaccination certificate. Organised by a group calling itself "Men in Black Denmark," some 600 people gathered in the bitter cold in front of the parliament building to protest the "dictatorship" of Denmark's partial lockdown. Main target of people's anger was plan for digital vaccine "passport". Denmark is planning to develop a digital certificate of COVID-19 vaccination for travel. It could also potentially be used for sports and cultural events as well as restaurants. Protest organisers say such a passport implies an obligation to be vaccinated and amounts to a further restriction on individual freedom. Vaccination is not compulsory in Denmark. Demonstrators, including some wearing hoods, marched with torches in the centre of the Danish capital, chanting "we have had enough" and "freedom for Denmark." Protesters carried a picture of Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen made to look like North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un. Switzerland Some 500 protesters marched through the Swiss tax haven of Zug on Saturday (February 6), wearing white protective suits and chanting dystopian slogans to voice displeasure with rules aimed at limiting the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. The demonstration was reminiscent of Vienna rally where thousands faced-off against police and opposed country's even-stricter lockdown. Though Switzerland's restrictions have been less severe than those in Germany, Austria or Italy -- restaurants and non-essential shops are closed but ski areas are open -- there is still a steady buzz of opposition. In Zug, police watched but did not intervene as a group of protesters filed from the train station to the centre of the lakeside city known for shell companies with letter-box addresses and attractive tax rates. Netherlands The Netherlands was set to enter an even stricter lockdown as forecasts of heavy snow and strong winds on Sunday triggered the country`s first nationwide weather alert in nine years. The government on Saturday issued a plea for citizens to stay at home as national weather institute KNMI issued a "code red" for the entire country, warning that icy winds of up to 90 km (56 miles) per hour and up to 20 centimetres (8 inches) of snow could lead to hazardous snowdrifts on roads and limited visibility. All coronavirus testing facilities will be closed on Sunday, health authorities said, while train services will be cut to a minimum level and major supermarkets cancelled deliveries after deciding it would be too dangerous to send drivers out. (With agency inputs)

Anti-lockdown demonstrations continue in Europe

Europe-bound migrants are been bottlenecked in Bosnia, with the hope of entering through Croatia one day. Currently, about 8000 migrants stranded bound to live in harsh conditions. Wion brings you more details.

Europe-bound migrants are been bottlenecked in Bosnia

Merkel said there were various reasons for the slower pace of vaccination in Germany compared to other countries.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel promises every citizen a Covid vaccine by September

Pharmaceutical giant Astrazeneca is facing twin challenges in Europe, over efficacy and delivery. On Monday, German Daily reported government was unhappy with Astrazeneca's COVID vaccine. The report says that the jab was only 8% effective among people over-65 years.

German media question Astrazeneca's efficacy rate

Scientists believe that there was not adequate evidence to hold coronavirus vaccines responsible for deaths among those who received the vaccine. Health agencies stress that great majority of post-vaccination fatalities were elderly, more vulnerable to coronavirus infection.

Norway sparked alarm last week when it reported the deaths of 33 of some 20,000 retirement home residents who had received a first shot of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine.

Norwegian Institute of Public Health said that at least 13 of the fatalities were not only elderly but also had other ailments.

While it noted that no analysis had yet been carried out on the causes of the deaths, it suggested that with the aged and vulnerable the normal side effects of vaccination such as fever or nausea could have contributed.

Outside Norway the news raised widespread concern and fed anti-vaccine scepticism, prompting the authorities to stress that no link had been established between the vaccine and post-jab deaths.

In France, of 800,000 people vaccinated, nine deaths of chronically ill residents of care and retirement homes were recorded by Friday.

The national medicines agency ANSM said that based on available evidence, "Nothing leads to the conclusion that the reported deaths were linked to vaccination."

Other examples include 13 deaths of elderly people recorded in Sweden and seven in Iceland, all with no link established.

In Portugal, a care worker died just two days after receiving the vaccine but the country's justice ministry did not find a link between the vaccine and the death.

France's interior ministry on January 18 listed 71 "observations of death" in Europe of people who had the inoculation, but offered no further details.

Continued monitoring

The European Medicines Agency said that despite the deaths, "to date no specific concerns have been identified with Comirnaty", the commercial name for the Pfizer shot.

The EMA noted that the authorities investigate fatalities to determine whether the vaccine was responsible.

National and European agencies check any problems with vaccinations reported by health professionals, pharmaceutical firms and patients themselves.

For the moment, the number and type of deaths among those vaccinated are not considered abnormal, with no cause-and-effect relationship identified.

In many countries -- such as France, Norway, Britain and Spain -- the frail and elderly are first in line for vaccinations.

(With AFP inputs)

Scientists believe that there was not adequate evidence to hold coronavirus vaccines responsible for deaths among those who received the vaccine. Health agencies stress that great majority of post-vaccination fatalities were elderly, more vulnerable to coronavirus infection.

Scientists believe that there was not adequate evidence to hold coronavirus vaccines responsible for deaths among those who received the vaccine. Health agencies stress that great majority of post-vaccination fatalities were elderly, more vulnerable to coronavirus infection. Norway sparked alarm last week when it reported the deaths of 33 of some 20,000 retirement home residents who had received a first shot of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine. Norwegian Institute of Public Health said that at least 13 of the fatalities were not only elderly but also had other ailments. While it noted that no analysis had yet been carried out on the causes of the deaths, it suggested that with the aged and vulnerable the normal side effects of vaccination such as fever or nausea could have contributed. Outside Norway the news raised widespread concern and fed anti-vaccine scepticism, prompting the authorities to stress that no link had been established between the vaccine and post-jab deaths. In France, of 800,000 people vaccinated, nine deaths of chronically ill residents of care and retirement homes were recorded by Friday. The national medicines agency ANSM said that based on available evidence, "Nothing leads to the conclusion that the reported deaths were linked to vaccination." Other examples include 13 deaths of elderly people recorded in Sweden and seven in Iceland, all with no link established. In Portugal, a care worker died just two days after receiving the vaccine but the country's justice ministry did not find a link between the vaccine and the death. France's interior ministry on January 18 listed 71 "observations of death" in Europe of people who had the inoculation, but offered no further details. Continued monitoring The European Medicines Agency said that despite the deaths, "to date no specific concerns have been identified with Comirnaty", the commercial name for the Pfizer shot. The EMA noted that the authorities investigate fatalities to determine whether the vaccine was responsible. National and European agencies check any problems with vaccinations reported by health professionals, pharmaceutical firms and patients themselves. For the moment, the number and type of deaths among those vaccinated are not considered abnormal, with no cause-and-effect relationship identified. In many countries -- such as France, Norway, Britain and Spain -- the frail and elderly are first in line for vaccinations. (With AFP inputs)

No deaths in Europe directly tied to COVID jabs: experts

European Council President Chrles Michel said on Sunday that the European Union will 'make' comapanies respect the contracts for coronavirus vaccine supply. His comments have come amid statements from vaccine providers that suggest that there will be a delays in supply of the vaccines.Pfizer said last week that it was temporarily slowing supplies to Europe to make manufacturing changes that would boost output. &nbsp;On Friday, AstraZeneca also said that initial deliveries to the region will fall short because of a production glitch

"We plan to make the pharmaceutical companies respect the contracts they have signed ... by using the legal means at our disposal," Michel said on Europe 1 radio.

There are increasing voices of displeasure over declared delay in vaccine supply. On Saturday, Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte said that delay in EU was serious breach of contract. The pm said that the delay was "unacceptable"

"This is unacceptable," Conte said in a Facebook post. "Our vaccination plan ... has been drawn up on the basis of contractual pledges freely undertaken by pharmaceutical companies with the European Commission."

vaccinations in Italy have slowed to 20,000-25,000 a day from peaks of more than 90,000 around two weeks ago, said the head of Italy's higher health council, Franco Locatelli.

Rome has threatened to sue Pfizer.

Conte said expected delays in the vaccine by AstraZeneca were even more worrying, adding Italy would receive 3.4 million doses instead of 8 million in the first quarter if the 60% reduction were confirmed.

He added the heads of AstraZeneca Italy had confirmed the reduction in production capacity at a meeting on Saturday with Italian Health Minister Roberto Speranza and COVID-19 Special Commissioner Domenico Arcuri.

"Such delays in deliveries represent serious contractual violations, which cause enormous damage to Italy and other countries," Conte said.

"We'll use all available legal tools as we're already doing with Pfizer-BioNTech," he added.

(With Reuters inputs)

European Council President Chrles Michel said on Sunday that the European Union will 'make' comapanies respect the contracts for coronavirus vaccine supply. His comments have come amid statements from vaccine providers that suggest that there will be a delays in supply of the vaccines.

European Council President Chrles Michel said on Sunday that the European Union will 'make' comapanies respect the contracts for coronavirus vaccine supply. His comments have come amid statements from vaccine providers that suggest that there will be a delays in supply of the vaccines.Pfizer said last week that it was temporarily slowing supplies to Europe to make manufacturing changes that would boost output. On Friday, AstraZeneca also said that initial deliveries to the region will fall short because of a production glitch "We plan to make the pharmaceutical companies respect the contracts they have signed ... by using the legal means at our disposal," Michel said on Europe 1 radio. There are increasing voices of displeasure over declared delay in vaccine supply. On Saturday, Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte said that delay in EU was serious breach of contract. The pm said that the delay was "unacceptable" "This is unacceptable," Conte said in a Facebook post. "Our vaccination plan ... has been drawn up on the basis of contractual pledges freely undertaken by pharmaceutical companies with the European Commission." vaccinations in Italy have slowed to 20,000-25,000 a day from peaks of more than 90,000 around two weeks ago, said the head of Italy's higher health council, Franco Locatelli. Rome has threatened to sue Pfizer. Conte said expected delays in the vaccine by AstraZeneca were even more worrying, adding Italy would receive 3.4 million doses instead of 8 million in the first quarter if the 60% reduction were confirmed. He added the heads of AstraZeneca Italy had confirmed the reduction in production capacity at a meeting on Saturday with Italian Health Minister Roberto Speranza and COVID-19 Special Commissioner Domenico Arcuri. "Such delays in deliveries represent serious contractual violations, which cause enormous damage to Italy and other countries," Conte said. "We'll use all available legal tools as we're already doing with Pfizer-BioNTech," he added. (With Reuters inputs)

EU: Will 'make' companies respect COVID vaccine supply contracts

The western Balkans are home to some of Europe's wildest rivers and scenic and natural sides but trash islands are bringing the Balkan waste crisis to surface. WION brings you a report.

Islands of floating waste clog rivers in the Balkans

A majority of Europeans believe China will soon overtake America as world's leading power as they believe the incoming President Joe Biden will not be able to save the country from the decline, according to a report.

Things are changing around the world and especially in the US. One of the main things that have changed in the past year has been in the political system of the US.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-to-issue-100-presidential-pardons-on-last-day-reports-357721" hreflang="en">Donald Trump to issue 100 presidential pardons on last day: Reports</a>

There has been an alarming decline in the cooperation and coordination in the lawmakers has taken a hit and this has been quite obvious for the rest of the world.

Biden's win in the US White House has been welcomed by international groups, governments and people and many have labelled it as a welcoming change. However, a majority of Europeans feel Joe Biden cannot undo the damage caused by the twice-impeached US President Donald Trump.

"Europeans like Biden, but they don’t think America will come back as a global leader," said Mark Leonard, Director of the European Council on Foreign Relations. "When George W Bush was president, they were divided about how America should use its power. With Biden entering the White House, they are divided about whether America has power at all."

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-laughs-at-us-crumbling-democracy-amid-fears-of-riots-during-bidens-inauguration-357741" hreflang="en">Iran laughs at US' crumbling democracy amid fears of riots during inauguration</a>

The thinktank conducted a survey of 15,000 people in 11 European countries in the last two months of the pandemic year 2020. Through the survey results, the researchers found that "Europeans’ attitudes towards the United States have undergone a massive change."

Majorities in key member states also believe that the political system of the US is now damaged beyond repair and thus Europe cannot rely solely on the US to defend it.

"They are drawing radical consequences from these lessons. Large numbers think Europeans should invest in their own defence and look to Berlin rather than Washington as their most important partner. They want to be tougher with the US on economic issues. And, rather than aligning with Washington, they want their countries to stay neutral in a conflict between the US and Russia or China," the report read.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-set-to-talk-about-unity-in-his-inaugural-speech-amid-backdrop-of-riots-357548" hreflang="en">Joe Biden to talk about unity in his inaugural speech, amid backdrop of riots</a>

This also hints that the Europeans think China will soon be able to overpower America and replace it as the most powerful nation of the world.

It was also revealed that 53 per cent of respondents believe that Biden's victory will make a positive difference to the European countries and 57 per cent think his win will also be beneficial for the European Union (EU).

However what is interesting is that many Europeans do not trust the American voters and believe that if the twice-impeached President and former reality TV star Donald Trump re-runs for the post of President, the American voters can bring him back to the White House.&nbsp;

A majority of Europeans believe China will soon overtake America as world's leading power as they believe the incoming President Joe Biden will not be able to save the country from the decline, according to a report.

A majority of Europeans believe China will soon overtake America as world's leading power as they believe the incoming President Joe Biden will not be able to save the country from the decline, according to a report. Things are changing around the world and especially in the US. One of the main things that have changed in the past year has been in the political system of the US. Also read| Donald Trump to issue 100 presidential pardons on last day: Reports There has been an alarming decline in the cooperation and coordination in the lawmakers has taken a hit and this has been quite obvious for the rest of the world. Biden's win in the US White House has been welcomed by international groups, governments and people and many have labelled it as a welcoming change. However, a majority of Europeans feel Joe Biden cannot undo the damage caused by the twice-impeached US President Donald Trump. "Europeans like Biden, but they don’t think America will come back as a global leader," said Mark Leonard, Director of the European Council on Foreign Relations. "When George W Bush was president, they were divided about how America should use its power. With Biden entering the White House, they are divided about whether America has power at all." Also read| Iran laughs at US' crumbling democracy amid fears of riots during inauguration The thinktank conducted a survey of 15,000 people in 11 European countries in the last two months of the pandemic year 2020. Through the survey results, the researchers found that "Europeans’ attitudes towards the United States have undergone a massive change." Majorities in key member states also believe that the political system of the US is now damaged beyond repair and thus Europe cannot rely solely on the US to defend it. "They are drawing radical consequences from these lessons. Large numbers think Europeans should invest in their own defence and look to Berlin rather than Washington as their most important partner. They want to be tougher with the US on economic issues. And, rather than aligning with Washington, they want their countries to stay neutral in a conflict between the US and Russia or China," the report read. Also read| Joe Biden to talk about unity in his inaugural speech, amid backdrop of riots This also hints that the Europeans think China will soon be able to overpower America and replace it as the most powerful nation of the world. It was also revealed that 53 per cent of respondents believe that Biden's victory will make a positive difference to the European countries and 57 per cent think his win will also be beneficial for the European Union (EU). However what is interesting is that many Europeans do not trust the American voters and believe that if the twice-impeached President and former reality TV star Donald Trump re-runs for the post of President, the American voters can bring him back to the White House.

Europe believes China will overtake US as superpower during Biden's presidency: Poll

Mealworms may soon find their way into Europe's pasta bowls and dinner dishes, after becoming the first insect approved in the region as a human food.

Mealworms for dinner? EU approves first insect food

According to the BDI industry association Europe’s largest economy, Germany is expected to grow 3.5% this year after plunging roughly 5% in 2020

World Business Watch: German GDP expected to grow by 3.5% in 2021

Whatsapp is changing its privacy policy, and if the users don't agree within 26 days, then they must delete the app. However, it applies only to its users in India. Europe, on the other hand, doesn't have to bother about the new policy which means WhatsApp will not share the continent's data with Facebook.

“There are no changes to WhatsApp’s data-sharing practices in the European region arising from the updated terms of service and privacy policy. For the avoidance of any doubt, it is still the case that WhatsApp does not share European region WhatsApp user data with Facebook for the purpose of Facebook using this data to improve its products or advertisements,” a spokeswoman said.&nbsp;

WhatsApp's executives in Europe said: "There are no changes to WhatsApp's data-sharing practices in the European region."

"WhatsApp does not share European region user data with Facebook", they added.&nbsp;

WhatsApp has issued more clarifications. Niamh Sweeney, WhatsApp's director of policy for Europe, West Asia and Africa took to Twitter.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
1/5 I don't usually tweet about work-related issues, but this one is important:
— Niamh Sweeney (@NiamhSweeneyNYC) <a href="https://twitter.com/NiamhSweeneyNYC/status/1347183889995935744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
3/5 There are no changes to WhatsApp's data-sharing practices in the Europe arising from this update. It remains the case that WhatsApp does not share European Region WhatsApp user data with Facebook for the purpose of Facebook using this data to improve its products or ads.
— Niamh Sweeney (@NiamhSweeneyNYC) <a href="https://twitter.com/NiamhSweeneyNYC/status/1347184963016339457?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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5/5 It's also about improving how businesses use WhatsApp to connect with customers. The updated Policy provides info on how businesses using the WhatsApp API to talk to customers can now do so using a Facebook-provided service to help them manage their chats with customers.
— Niamh Sweeney (@NiamhSweeneyNYC) <a href="https://twitter.com/NiamhSweeneyNYC/status/1347185463057117190?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Why are there different rules for Europe and India?

It is because of European laws. Europe has tougher laws to protect user privacy. Facebook must comply with those laws.

Facebook has been punished and fined for sharing data in Europe a few years ago. &nbsp;

In 2017, Facebook was fined 122 million dollars.&nbsp;

Facebook is the parent company of WhatsApp. When it bought WhatsApp, Facebook promised not to use the app's data. However, it did not keep its promise.&nbsp;

According to European regulators, Facebook had misled them and due to which the social media giant was slapped with a fine.

In the same year --- France gave a warning to Facebook. It threatened to fine Facebook if data from Whatsapp is shared with Facebook.

In 2019 --- Germany imposed a ban on similar Facebook policies. German regulators said Facebook cannot collect and mix up user data from WhatsApp and Instagram. Until they have explicit consent from the user to do so.

All these governments are legislating to protect the data of their citizens which has forced Facebook to comply.

Turkey, also, has launched a probe. The competition authority there is investigating the changes in WhatsApp's privacy policy. Until then, Facebook has been asked to suspend the changes.

So until the govt clears, WhatsApp cannot implement the new policy.

In the United States, the home base of Facebook, the tech giant is facing an antitrust lawsuit. 46 states have sued the company claiming that Facebook is now a monopoly --- and it must be broken.

The focus of the investigation is on data. How does the company manage its data?&nbsp;

It gets data from Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp.

Where does it go? How is it shared? What are the checks and balances?

America is investigating all this.

What is the Government of India doing to protect the data and privacy of its citizens? Why has New Delhi no legislated?

India is WhatsApp's biggest market with more than 400 million users. A market that WhatsApp wants to take for a ride because the govt has failed to come up with stricter privacy laws.&nbsp;

Whatsapp is changing its privacy policy, and if the users don't agree within 26 days, then they must delete the app. However, it applies only to its users in India.

Whatsapp is changing its privacy policy, and if the users don't agree within 26 days, then they must delete the app. However, it applies only to its users in India. Europe, on the other hand, doesn't have to bother about the new policy which means WhatsApp will not share the continent's data with Facebook. “There are no changes to WhatsApp’s data-sharing practices in the European region arising from the updated terms of service and privacy policy. For the avoidance of any doubt, it is still the case that WhatsApp does not share European region WhatsApp user data with Facebook for the purpose of Facebook using this data to improve its products or advertisements,” a spokeswoman said. WhatsApp's executives in Europe said: "There are no changes to WhatsApp's data-sharing practices in the European region." "WhatsApp does not share European region user data with Facebook", they added. WhatsApp has issued more clarifications. Niamh Sweeney, WhatsApp's director of policy for Europe, West Asia and Africa took to Twitter. 1/5 I don't usually tweet about work-related issues, but this one is important: — Niamh Sweeney (@NiamhSweeneyNYC) January 7, 2021 × 3/5 There are no changes to WhatsApp's data-sharing practices in the Europe arising from this update. It remains the case that WhatsApp does not share European Region WhatsApp user data with Facebook for the purpose of Facebook using this data to improve its products or ads. — Niamh Sweeney (@NiamhSweeneyNYC) January 7, 2021 × 5/5 It's also about improving how businesses use WhatsApp to connect with customers. The updated Policy provides info on how businesses using the WhatsApp API to talk to customers can now do so using a Facebook-provided service to help them manage their chats with customers. — Niamh Sweeney (@NiamhSweeneyNYC) January 7, 2021 × Why are there different rules for Europe and India? It is because of European laws. Europe has tougher laws to protect user privacy. Facebook must comply with those laws. Facebook has been punished and fined for sharing data in Europe a few years ago. In 2017, Facebook was fined 122 million dollars. Facebook is the parent company of WhatsApp. When it bought WhatsApp, Facebook promised not to use the app's data. However, it did not keep its promise. According to European regulators, Facebook had misled them and due to which the social media giant was slapped with a fine. In the same year --- France gave a warning to Facebook. It threatened to fine Facebook if data from Whatsapp is shared with Facebook. In 2019 --- Germany imposed a ban on similar Facebook policies. German regulators said Facebook cannot collect and mix up user data from WhatsApp and Instagram. Until they have explicit consent from the user to do so. All these governments are legislating to protect the data of their citizens which has forced Facebook to comply. Turkey, also, has launched a probe. The competition authority there is investigating the changes in WhatsApp's privacy policy. Until then, Facebook has been asked to suspend the changes. So until the govt clears, WhatsApp cannot implement the new policy. In the United States, the home base of Facebook, the tech giant is facing an antitrust lawsuit. 46 states have sued the company claiming that Facebook is now a monopoly --- and it must be broken. The focus of the investigation is on data. How does the company manage its data? It gets data from Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp. Where does it go? How is it shared? What are the checks and balances? America is investigating all this. What is the Government of India doing to protect the data and privacy of its citizens? Why has New Delhi no legislated? India is WhatsApp's biggest market with more than 400 million users. A market that WhatsApp wants to take for a ride because the govt has failed to come up with stricter privacy laws.

WhatsApp's new privacy policy: How Indian rules vary from rest of the world

AstraZeneca and Oxford University had filed a formal bid for authorisation for their coronavirus vaccine, the European Medicines Agency said.

Europe ramps up vaccination drive amid surge in Covid-19 cases

United Kingdom has become the epicentre of Europe's COVID-19 outbreak once again. Prime Minister Boris Johnson's government is currently facing immense criticism and anger from the people over its handling of the pandemic.

COVID-19: UK urges citizens to obey rules as deaths surpass 81,000

Boris Johnson under fire as UK again faces onslaught of COVID-19

Numerous cases of bird flu had been reported across India, Europe Japan and South Korea. So is this the start of another Pandemic? Here the report.

Bird flu has been reported in different parts of the World, So is this the start of another pandemic?

The second wave of COVID-19 is wreaking havoc across Europe and in wake of rising Coronavirus cases, Germany has extended its lockdown until the end of January.

Germany extends and expands the partial lockdown till the January end

Health officials in Ontario said on Saturday that two confirmed cases of the new coronavirus variant first detected in the United Kingdom have appeared in the Canadian province.

Canada's Ontario finds two cases of virus variant first seen in UK

Several European countries such as Belgium and Germany are imposing travel bans on all the incoming flights from the UK and South Africa to make sure the new variant does not get transmitted to their countries.

'Not out of control', says WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom over new 'Covid-19 variant'

Scientific experts on new Coronavirus strain in Europe

Europe's medicines regulator on Monday approved the use of the COVID-19 vaccine jointly developed by U.S. company Pfizer and its German partner BioNTech, putting Europe on course to start inoculations within a week.

Fineprint: EU regulator clears way for use of Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine in Europe

Passengers at London's Heathrow Airport navigated cancelled flights and confusion as the UK was on Monday (December 21) shut off from much of Europe after its closest allies cut transport ties due to fears about a new strain of the coronavirus.

WION Dispatch: UK government issues advisory, 'do not travel' unless essential

World Health Organisation has appealed its members in Europe to take strong measures against the new strain of coronavirus circulating in UK. Outside, 9 cases caused due to the new COVID-19 strain have been detected in Denmark. One case has been found in the Netherlands while another has been found in Australia.

"Across Europe, where transmission is intense and widespread, countries need to redouble their control and prevention approaches," a spokeswoman for WHO Europe said.

UK Health Secretary Matt Hancock said on Sunday that the new coronavirus was "out of control". UK has announced Tier-4 lockdown in the country.

Meanwhile, several European countries such as Belgium and Germany are imposing travel bans on all the incoming flights from the UK and South Africa to make sure the new variant does not get transmitted to their countries.

(With AFP inputs)

World Health Organisation has appealed its members in Europe to take strong measures against the new strain of coronavirus circulating in UK. Outside, 9 cases caused due to the new COVID-19 strain have been detected in Denmark.

World Health Organisation has appealed its members in Europe to take strong measures against the new strain of coronavirus circulating in UK. Outside, 9 cases caused due to the new COVID-19 strain have been detected in Denmark. One case has been found in the Netherlands while another has been found in Australia. "Across Europe, where transmission is intense and widespread, countries need to redouble their control and prevention approaches," a spokeswoman for WHO Europe said. UK Health Secretary Matt Hancock said on Sunday that the new coronavirus was "out of control". UK has announced Tier-4 lockdown in the country. Meanwhile, several European countries such as Belgium and Germany are imposing travel bans on all the incoming flights from the UK and South Africa to make sure the new variant does not get transmitted to their countries. (With AFP inputs)

New coronavirus strain: WHO appeals for strong action for containment in Europe

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India and Europe have decided to fight climate change together. To this end, lawmakers and experts from both regions have begun discussing solutions for the climate crisis.

In the run up to the fifth anniversary of the Paris Agreement on climate change and the global ‘Climate Action Summit’ on Saturday (December 12), parliamentarians and climate change experts from India and the Europe came together on a common platform to discuss the mutual cooperation and brainstorm on avenues for working together to tackle climate change this week in a webinar organised by UK based think tank Europe Asia Foundation Limited (EAFL).

EAFL is a UK-based organisation that provides a platform that brings together democracies of Europe and Asia.

The webinar on climate change was a part of the ‘India Talks’ series initiative of the EAFL. The panelists included MEP Bas Eickhout, Rajya Sabha MP MJ Akbar, and India’s former Ambassador to EU Manjeev Puri, and European Policy Centre’s Senior Policy Analyst Annika Hedberg. Former German Environment Minister and MEP Jo Leinen chaired and moderated the event while the Director of the Europe Asia Foundation Limited and former MEP Neena Gill hosted the event.&nbsp;

MJ Akbar highlighted the possibilities of cooperation in green energy through International Solar Alliance - an ambitious project of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He then argued, "While solar energy on paper is cheaper, however, unless the battery storage problem isn’t sorted out, it can’t be a fully dependable initiative. We are working fast to sort this out. We will have to provide a better life for people.&nbsp;

"Nations that have used coal extensively and have contributed hugely to the crisis cannot give us sermons and lectures. There is a commitment that has been made. 100 billion dollars is a term that has been mentioned. I don’t know how many of these dollars have reached developing countries. If we have not learned anything from this year, then our future is definitely pessimistic."

He further said that India and Europe can take a shared approach, adding, "no issues if all the world does not come together. India and Europe are massive and huge powers and can do a lot together."

Putting forward his expectations from COP-26 to be held at Glasgow, Akbar said, "I would like to reiterate the word of Elliott - 'The world will not end with a bang, but it might be through a whimper.' We need to communicate to people that if the world would end, it might not be due to murder, but due to suicide."

MEP Bas Eickhout opined that in the aftermath of the coronavirus pandemic, "we all were wondering how it is going to change public perceptions. As far as the EU is concerned, the first reactions of governments were quite reactive and nationalistic. Especially during the first wave."

He added, "A green recovery is central as a part of that investment programme. An efficient formulation, intention, and direction of the European investment programme would help in investing in a more resilient economy, which is ready for the next crisis – that is the climate crisis." He also reiterated the importance of LULUCF, earlier mentioned by Manjeev Puri.

About his expectations from the upcoming COP-26 meeting, Eickhout said, “One of the major objectives of the Paris meeting was to review the progress every five years. However, the Emission Report that has been just now published has reflected that the world is not moving forward to tackle the issue at all. The five-years review should have been there. We now really have to look towards ourselves. Europe needs to have its own house in order. The US will come forward with their new plan back in play. The big question is what the other countries are going to do?”

Ambassador Manjeev Puri highlighted that it is very important to reaffirm that India and the EU have put climate change on their agenda very-very early.

He mentioned the report on ‘Climate Change Performance Index’, released on December 7 -- which highlighted that India is amongst the top ten best performers in climate change.

China was 33rd and the US was unfortunately near the bottom in the list.

Throwing light on India’s achievements in the field of solar energy, he said solar power has become cheaper in India than coal generated electricity in the day. This one fundamental change has propelled solar power change in India and there is no second example. He also mentioned two major objectives of India in the field of green power. First, to decarbonise electricity generation and second, to electrify everything else.&nbsp;

“India and the EU collaborate on a lot of things. The European Investment Bank has been proved to be of much help for India. Investments made by the Bank have led to wonderful outcomes. It also financed the Lucknow Metro. The fact that the metro is coming all over in India shall help us to ensure that carbon emissions from personal vehicles in India get rapidly reduced. India and Europe can get together on a huge global mission on hydrogen. Something similar to India-led initiative on solar power and perhaps, provide fast results as a consequence of the reduction in dependency on fossil fuels," he added.

Highlighting the importance of ‘green recovery’, Annika Hedberg stated, “We need to commit to green recovery from the coronavirus crisis. We also need to take into account other things and need to invest in the future in areas of utmost importance to society. Most importantly, we need to be people centric. In Europe, areas which have invested a lot on fossil fuels and are still dependent on coal. The transition for countries like Poland is going to be a major task.&nbsp;

"And at the same time, we need to help such countries in transition. There is a need to recognise the support system and extend help to upskill them. In Germany, there are significant regions that are heavily dependent over coal. These people are very keen on such a pattern and want to remain in the same energy space. We have been getting some very positive signals as important developments are taking place in the EU regarding such transitions. A number of regions are currently in the middle of the transition. The other member nations need to support these regions.”

Jo Leinen moderated the discussion and touched upon a number of burning topics related to prolonged as well as real-time issues, bringing up topics like biodiversity, adaptation, climate finance, cooperation, greenhouse emissions, COP-26, etc. in the discussion.&nbsp;

About India’s steps in the field of biodiversity, he said, “I know that there are social problems and economic problems but you are famous for biological products. Your products are much more enhancive and are accepted in most parts of the world and are really an asset for India. You have such beautiful landscapes and I think India can be an example in biodiversity globally.”

Neena Gill concluded the event, and presented the vote of thanks. She said, "We need to get this message and understanding across to a wider audience. That is one of the ambitions of this organisation to transmit such conversations into public space, to ordinary people. When we look at the 27 EU states, they are at different trajectories of climate change awareness and likewise are the states in India.&nbsp;

"I hope we would be able to take these debates to the state level, connecting with the local people in different states and connect countries through this initiative. The idea is to have a bottom-up approach that links local initiatives internationally. This is not the end of this debate but the beginning.”

The discussion becomes more important as Indian PM Modi is expected to participate in the summit and was invited by the UK government to attend the event earlier in November.

India and Europe have decided to fight climate change together. To this end, lawmakers and experts from both regions have begun discussing solutions for the climate crisis.

India and Europe have decided to fight climate change together. To this end, lawmakers and experts from both regions have begun discussing solutions for the climate crisis. In the run up to the fifth anniversary of the Paris Agreement on climate change and the global ‘Climate Action Summit’ on Saturday (December 12), parliamentarians and climate change experts from India and the Europe came together on a common platform to discuss the mutual cooperation and brainstorm on avenues for working together to tackle climate change this week in a webinar organised by UK based think tank Europe Asia Foundation Limited (EAFL). EAFL is a UK-based organisation that provides a platform that brings together democracies of Europe and Asia. The webinar on climate change was a part of the ‘India Talks’ series initiative of the EAFL. The panelists included MEP Bas Eickhout, Rajya Sabha MP MJ Akbar, and India’s former Ambassador to EU Manjeev Puri, and European Policy Centre’s Senior Policy Analyst Annika Hedberg. Former German Environment Minister and MEP Jo Leinen chaired and moderated the event while the Director of the Europe Asia Foundation Limited and former MEP Neena Gill hosted the event. MJ Akbar highlighted the possibilities of cooperation in green energy through International Solar Alliance - an ambitious project of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He then argued, "While solar energy on paper is cheaper, however, unless the battery storage problem isn’t sorted out, it can’t be a fully dependable initiative. We are working fast to sort this out. We will have to provide a better life for people. "Nations that have used coal extensively and have contributed hugely to the crisis cannot give us sermons and lectures. There is a commitment that has been made. 100 billion dollars is a term that has been mentioned. I don’t know how many of these dollars have reached developing countries. If we have not learned anything from this year, then our future is definitely pessimistic." He further said that India and Europe can take a shared approach, adding, "no issues if all the world does not come together. India and Europe are massive and huge powers and can do a lot together." Putting forward his expectations from COP-26 to be held at Glasgow, Akbar said, "I would like to reiterate the word of Elliott - 'The world will not end with a bang, but it might be through a whimper.' We need to communicate to people that if the world would end, it might not be due to murder, but due to suicide." MEP Bas Eickhout opined that in the aftermath of the coronavirus pandemic, "we all were wondering how it is going to change public perceptions. As far as the EU is concerned, the first reactions of governments were quite reactive and nationalistic. Especially during the first wave." He added, "A green recovery is central as a part of that investment programme. An efficient formulation, intention, and direction of the European investment programme would help in investing in a more resilient economy, which is ready for the next crisis – that is the climate crisis." He also reiterated the importance of LULUCF, earlier mentioned by Manjeev Puri. About his expectations from the upcoming COP-26 meeting, Eickhout said, “One of the major objectives of the Paris meeting was to review the progress every five years. However, the Emission Report that has been just now published has reflected that the world is not moving forward to tackle the issue at all. The five-years review should have been there. We now really have to look towards ourselves. Europe needs to have its own house in order. The US will come forward with their new plan back in play. The big question is what the other countries are going to do?” Ambassador Manjeev Puri highlighted that it is very important to reaffirm that India and the EU have put climate change on their agenda very-very early. He mentioned the report on ‘Climate Change Performance Index’, released on December 7 -- which highlighted that India is amongst the top ten best performers in climate change. China was 33rd and the US was unfortunately near the bottom in the list. Throwing light on India’s achievements in the field of solar energy, he said solar power has become cheaper in India than coal generated electricity in the day. This one fundamental change has propelled solar power change in India and there is no second example. He also mentioned two major objectives of India in the field of green power. First, to decarbonise electricity generation and second, to electrify everything else. “India and the EU collaborate on a lot of things. The European Investment Bank has been proved to be of much help for India. Investments made by the Bank have led to wonderful outcomes. It also financed the Lucknow Metro. The fact that the metro is coming all over in India shall help us to ensure that carbon emissions from personal vehicles in India get rapidly reduced. India and Europe can get together on a huge global mission on hydrogen. Something similar to India-led initiative on solar power and perhaps, provide fast results as a consequence of the reduction in dependency on fossil fuels," he added. Highlighting the importance of ‘green recovery’, Annika Hedberg stated, “We need to commit to green recovery from the coronavirus crisis. We also need to take into account other things and need to invest in the future in areas of utmost importance to society. Most importantly, we need to be people centric. In Europe, areas which have invested a lot on fossil fuels and are still dependent on coal. The transition for countries like Poland is going to be a major task. "And at the same time, we need to help such countries in transition. There is a need to recognise the support system and extend help to upskill them. In Germany, there are significant regions that are heavily dependent over coal. These people are very keen on such a pattern and want to remain in the same energy space. We have been getting some very positive signals as important developments are taking place in the EU regarding such transitions. A number of regions are currently in the middle of the transition. The other member nations need to support these regions.” Jo Leinen moderated the discussion and touched upon a number of burning topics related to prolonged as well as real-time issues, bringing up topics like biodiversity, adaptation, climate finance, cooperation, greenhouse emissions, COP-26, etc. in the discussion. About India’s steps in the field of biodiversity, he said, “I know that there are social problems and economic problems but you are famous for biological products. Your products are much more enhancive and are accepted in most parts of the world and are really an asset for India. You have such beautiful landscapes and I think India can be an example in biodiversity globally.” Neena Gill concluded the event, and presented the vote of thanks. She said, "We need to get this message and understanding across to a wider audience. That is one of the ambitions of this organisation to transmit such conversations into public space, to ordinary people. When we look at the 27 EU states, they are at different trajectories of climate change awareness and likewise are the states in India. "I hope we would be able to take these debates to the state level, connecting with the local people in different states and connect countries through this initiative. The idea is to have a bottom-up approach that links local initiatives internationally. This is not the end of this debate but the beginning.” The discussion becomes more important as Indian PM Modi is expected to participate in the summit and was invited by the UK government to attend the event earlier in November.

India and Europe to fight climate change together

For more than two decades, Pham Van Thuoc has scoured Europe in search of historical church clocks, bringing them back to his home in Vietnam where he lovingly restores them. For his efforts, Thuoc has been recognised by the Vietnam Records Association as having the largest collection of public clocks in the country.

Time is precious, says Vietnamese collector of European church clocks

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