The inaugural annual rule of law review highlighted shortcomings in member states - but will not lead to concrete action.

The European Commission's first report on the rule of law has raised concerns over the lack of effective anti-corruption efforts in some members sates - while it considers Denmark, Finland, Sweden and the Netherlands have good governance measures.

Portugal has sought to be a leader at the EU level with regard to refugees and migrants, advocating a liberal position. It has consistently shown a willingness to take in refugees.

More and more people have come to understand that today's challenges can only be dealt with at the European level. That is why today, perhaps even more than 20 years ago, there is an urgent need for independent, European, journalism.

A ruling by the Spanish Supreme Court to uphold the decision to ban the separatist leader from public office for 18 months, has been criticised as "disproportionate".

Hungary has called for the resignaiton of the commission vice-president, in the latest bellicose political move from the Hungarian PM.