What's happening in Europe?
Belgium
The front page of De Standaard features a mix of domestic Belgian news, including a scandal involving the Flemish government and the Opera voor Vlaanderen, rising crack addictions across the country, and a trial for the death of a child. International news touches on endangered species like tigers…
The Flemish government is buying out the social debt of the Opera for Flanders for 27.7 million euros, which was in financial distress in 1988 and forced to restructure, leading to 300 permanent staff members losing their jobs.
Crack use is surpassing cocaine and heroin and is now the third most common addiction in Belgium, with addiction services overloaded, particularly in Brussels.
Dave De Kock, who killed a two-year-old in 2008, will stand trial with his ex-girlfriend Romy W. for the kidnapping and manslaughter of four-year-old Dean Verberckmoes in 2022.
Acting mayor Els van Doesburg's proposal for preventive arrests of troublesome individuals is criticized as populist, a move seen as outdoing her mentor Bart De Wever.
A gathering ban is in effect in Liège following student protests that escalated into riots, with Minister Quintin condemning the violence and pointing to infiltration by groups like Antifa.
Frédéric De Gucht, chairman of Anders, receives his salary as party leader through his management company, opposing proposals to reduce this practice.
A minor earthquake with a magnitude of 1.9 occurred in Ruiselede, West Flanders, on Wednesday evening.
Despite a significant decline in wildlife populations since 1970, species such as tigers, bluefin tuna, and sea turtles are showing remarkable recovery due to sustained international efforts.
