Sebastian Thornleigh
Writes on European politics, geopolitics, and international affairs for Harbinger Post.
UK Government Awards £8.7 Million to Rape Crisis England & Wales for Round-the-Clock Survivor Support
The Ministry of Justice has awarded £8.7 million to Rape Crisis England & Wales to continue its 24/7 free and confidential helpline for survivors of rape and sexual abuse. The funding, running from October 2026 to September 2029, forms part of the government's broader commitment to halve violence against women and girls.
Irish Presidency Sets Out EU Agenda Before Parliament Committees
A series of Irish ministers appeared before European Parliament committees on 13 and 14 July to present the priorities of Ireland's Council Presidency, which runs until the end of 2026. Key themes included EU competitiveness, support for Ukraine, enlargement, health, education, agriculture, trade, and security.
European Parliament Calls on EU to Condemn Attacks on Aid Workers and Address Global Humanitarian Funding Shortfalls
The European Parliament has adopted a resolution urging the EU to unequivocally condemn the obstruction of humanitarian aid and the killing of aid workers in conflict zones, while also sounding the alarm over a global humanitarian and development funding crisis. The resolution follows a joint communication on humanitarian action published by the European Commission and the EU's High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy on 27 May 2026.
Russia is cutting off Ukraine’s grain exports again, threatening a critical harvest and global food security
Ukraine has proposed a deal to halt attacks on civilian targets in the Black Sea – an effort to allow grain shipments to resume from both countries.
If Europe wants to ‘go it alone’ on security, countries need to learn to sing from the same songsheet
Splits are appearing in Europe’s approach to Russia’s aggression just when it needs to present a united front.