Kazakhstan Plans Fully Digital Economy, AI Ministry Within Three Years

Europe faces significant political and economic challenges, highlighted by the decline of traditional social democratic strongholds such as Germany's Ruhr region, where the SPD struggles amid persistent unemployment and economic lag. Ursula von der Leyen's recent State of the Union address underscored Europe's precarious geopolitical position, emphasizing the need to assert itself amid hostility from major powers and internal divisions, though critics argue her speech largely deflected from domestic failures. The EU's ambitions to strengthen its global standing through investments and regulatory initiatives confront skepticism, as seen in the mixed reactions to the trade deal with the US and difficulties in unified responses to crises like the war in Gaza and climate disasters. Central European leaders like Hungary's Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó warn of destabilization efforts by Brussels against sovereign governments, reflecting rising tensions within the EU. Meanwhile, ambitious digital transformation goals, such as Kazakhstan’s plan to become a fully digital country within three years, showcase a broader global race to adapt to technological change, adding pressure on Europe to keep pace. Overall, Europe grapples with reconciling geopolitical aspirations with domestic economic and political realities amid growing public disillusionment.