Eurotopics.net

A trial against two former employees of Assad's secret service begins in Koblenz today, Friday. This is the first time representatives of the Syrian regime have been put on trial for torture. Anwar R., one of the accused, is also charged with committing at least 58 murders. Despite its limited scope the German-language press sees the trial as an important signal.

The Muslim month of fasting is taking place under unusual circumstances this year. Due to the coronavirus crisis mosques in many countries are remaining closed during prayer times, and pilgrimages and public breaking of the fast are forbidden. How can the meaning of Ramadan nonetheless be preserved?

On Saturday Portugal will celebrate its Freedom Day: after the Carnation Revolution in 1974, which brought António de Oliveira Salazar's dictatorship to an end, April 25th became a national holiday. The Portuguese will have to stay at home this year because of the pandemic, but the country's MPs want to hold an official ceremony with 100 people in the parliament. Is this warranted or totally inappropriate?

Scientists have rarely received as much media attention as they are now in the coronavirus crisis. Leading virologists and epidemiologists as well as the heads of government agencies have become the face of the crisis in their respective countries. Europe's press discusses how to find a middle ground between reason and personality cult.

Despite growing controversy Sweden is still refraining from adopting tougher measures to stop the spread of the coronavirus pandemic. Borders and primary schools have remained open and there are no restrictions on leaving home, although visits to retirement homes have been banned. Europe's media wonder if they should envy or feel sorry for the Swedes.