Belgium enshrines the “right to disconnect” for government workers
Bosses won’t be able contact employees outside of work hours except in exceptional circumstances, according to a proposed law for civil servants in Belgium.
Europe
This archive covers progress stories from across Europe, spanning the U.K., Scandinavia, the E.U. and beyond. Readers will find reporting on health, climate policy, social welfare, science and more — drawn from nearly 1,200 articles tracking real gains made by communities, governments and researchers throughout the region.
Psilocybin clinical trial confirms safety of group psychedelic sessions
A new study published in the The Journal of Psychopharmacology found no detrimental effects from simultaneous administration of the drug.
U.K. to pardon all past convictions of consensual homosexual activity
The new amendment will pardon any conviction over homosexual activity that is no longer a crime today and that did not involve anyone under the age of 16.
Parliament of the Faroe Islands grants equal parental rights for same-sex couples
The government coalition stood on the brink of collapse ahead of today’s third reading of two bills relating to parental rights of same-sex co-parents. Both bills from the opposition were adopted with 18 votes in favor and 13 against.
European supermarkets discontinue selling Brazilian beef to protect the Amazon
Sainsbury’s in the U.K., Lidl in the Netherlands, and the Dutch retailer Alhold Delhaize were among the companies saying they would move away from stocking Brazilian beef.
Wind power becomes Spain’s leading energy source for 2021
So far this year, renewable sources have contributed almost 47% of the country’s total consumption needs compared to less than 30% a decade ago.
France passes sweeping conversion therapy ban
Conversion therapy practitioners can face prison time and fines because “homosexuality and trans identity aren’t sicknesses that can be cured.”
Malta becomes first E.U. nation to legalize cannabis
Equality Minister, Owen Bonnici, said the “historic” move would stop small-time cannabis users from facing the criminal justice system and would help curb drug trafficking.
IKEA to phase out plastic packaging by 2028
The shift will happen progressively over the coming years, and mainly be focusing on paper as it is both recyclable, renewable, and widely recycled across the world.
U.K. will require all new buildings to have EV charging stations starting in 2022
The government expects the move to lead to 145,000 new charging points each year.