Latest news with #NorthernEuropean
LeMonde
2 days ago
- Business
- LeMonde
Are Germans lazy? Their leader wants them to work more
One of the favorite narratives among liberal and conservative circles in Germany is that the country's economic decline is to blame on Germans falling out of love with work. Friedrich Merz, the new chancellor, placed the issue at the top of his priorities for reviving the stagnating economy, which has not grown in five years. "We must, in this country, work more again and, above all, more efficiently. It is not with the four-day week and 'work-life balance' that we will be able to maintain our prosperity!" he declared at the economic forum of his party, the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), in mid-May, drawing protests from unions. Since then, the whole country has been questioning its supposed laziness, haunted by a study from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) that is circulating widely. The study ranks Germans at the bottom among the 34 member countries, with 1,343 hours worked per person per year, compared to 1,500 in France, 1,803 in Poland, and 1,897 in Greece. Are Germans lazy? Some experts put this analysis into perspective. First, the hours measured and the international rankings are disputed. The OECD itself notes that its chart should only be used for time comparisons "because of differences in sources and methods of calculation" between countries. A 2023 study by Rexecode, which avoids these biases, placed Germany in the average range among Northern European countries. Above all, with 46 million working people, the total number of hours worked in Germany is at a record high.
Buzz Feed
12-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
33 Comfy Spring Shoes For Your Next Trip
Huarache sandals to ring in spring break with a fun pattern! These are 100% handmade and woven by Mexican artisans, so each pair is unique! They're *perfect* if you want the comfort of a supportive sneaker, but in a more ~cutesy~ way. They also have a miraculous way of perfectly molding to your feet, meaning you'll spend little to no time breaking them in! A must-have pair of Birkenstock Arizona sandals, which have a contoured footbed for that extra arch support, which you'll *really* appreciate two hours into that walking tour. Whether you're wearing a classic pair of denim jeans or your favorite flowy dress that's been hiding in your closet all winter, this laid-back pair is just the thing you need to complete the look. Absurdly cheap yet cute waterproof Chelsea boots because I think we both know you're way past letting some spring showers ruin your trip (or your outfit)! These will allow you to splash around in slushy puddles all you want without any worry of getting a dreadful wet sock. Or a pair of waterproof sneakers for all the sneakerheads planning a trip to the Pacific Northwest or to a moody Northern European city. These are a great alternative to your regular rain boots! Super supportive, water-resistant Dr. Scholl's kicks — aka the new cushy pair of shoes you'll be reaching for when it's time to go to the airport. Since they're super easy to take on and off, TSA might just stop yelling at you as you try to make your way through security as quickly as possible. Or Time Off Sneaker that has managed to impress countless reviewers — from frequent travelers who fly for work to college students studying abroad. They're made with water-resistant faux leather *and* have ultra-flexible outsoles with extra grip and cushioning. And bonus! They're sustainably crafted from recycled material. Some bestselling Adidas Cloudfoam sneakers with cloudfoam cushioning that has earned them over 16,000 5-star ratings. They'll be the two lil' clouds your feet need when it comes to a long walking day. And since they're super lightweight, you can also pack them without stress! A trendy, lightweight pair of New Balance 608 V5 Cross Trainers that amazed a reviewer with how well they carried them through a full day at Disneyland — and we all know that's the true test of comfort for any pair of shoes. They're made with minimal interior seaming and are lined with supportive foam inserts so that your feet can kiss those painful blisters and midday discomfort goodbye. Or super springy Hoka Clifton sneakers, which come in *many* fun, bright colors that simply pair well with the sunny weather. Whether you're roaming a European city or just looking to squeeze in some cardio, their foam footbed and light, plush design will make you feel like you're floating instead of letting your poor little feet feel the effects of the long miles you've walked so far. (And it's only noon!) Quick-drying, long-lasting Teva midform sandals if you're praising the return of sandal season. These are a must for any activity that doesn't require a closed toe. Whether you'll be trekking through the city, or just walking from your hotel room to the pool, this quick-drying pair will keep you from feeling like you're walking on wet sponges while the strap design ensures your feet stay put. Floral ballet flats with adorable cutouts that aren't just for style, but for breathability! Plus, they're flexible as heck, so you can roll them right up to take on your next sunny getaway! It may not be groundbreaking, but florals for spring just make sense. Or some pointed-toe knit ballet flats that would pair wonderfully with cute linen shorts and a fitted tee while enjoying some gelato in Italy. They have heel rebound, arch support, and are made of breathable fabric that feels like a second skin (they're even machine-washable!). High-top Converse sneakers with a chic platform sole — whether you pair them with your fave pair of jeans or juxtapose them with a dress, they'll have you looking on-trend wherever you go. Ultra-comfy Allbirds Tree Pipers I could've used on my tour of the Vatican (breathtaking, but also five. hours. long.) They're made of eucalyptus fiber to keep the insides nice and breathable, and the flexible fabric is designed to move with your feet. A pair of quick-drying lace-free sneakers you'll be glad you have if your spring break destination will be full of aquatic adventures! Not only will these keep your feet nice and dry, but they're also super breathable, have an anti-slip rubber sole, *and* have a pull tab at the heel that allows you to take them on and off super easily. Or some lightweight Tioseban sneakers because they weigh basically nothing (buh-bye luggage weight fees👋) and are made of breathable mesh that'll keep your precious feet cool and sweat-free. Basically, if you want to combine the freedom of being barefoot with the support of a cushy sole, these are the shoes for you! Snazzy heeled slip-ons if you want something you can easily slip on for a snazzy dinner after taking a much-needed nap at the hotel. These babies have a thick heel for stability as well as soft, thick braided straps to keep your feet in place (because having them slide all over the place can be so annoying!). A pair of lightweight lug sole sandals that are giving *major* early 2000s Lizzie McGuire vibes, which means you're destined to be wearing them in Rome on a Vespa. Yeah... I'm gonna need these in every color (and there's a lot of them). 😍 Or Nisolo flatform sandals, which you'll absolutely love if you're going on a tropical getaway. They've got a lightweight, breathable design that won't let your feet overheat *and* they don't even need a break-in period, so you can toss them into your luggage as soon as they arrive! Sketchers slip-ons that'll let you avoid having to awkwardly stop in the middle of a busy city walkway to crouch down and tie your shoe *again*. With these, you can keep the cute sneaker look sans the pesky laces! Plus, many reviewers say they're super comfy — even if your feet are on the wider side! Or some classic slip-on sneaks — the pretty color options will catch your eye, but the breathable canvas material, padded insole, and stretchy fit are what will capture your heart. 😍 Reviewers also rave about how surprisingly easy they are to pack! Espadrille platform sandals to carry you from the Spanish steps in the morning to the Trevi Fountain in effortless comfort. Plus, reviewers with wide feet love these and say they fit perfectly! Or Dr. Martens platform sandals because they'll practically have you ~floating~ through the streets of a new city. Adjustable buckles? Check. Super lightweight EVA soles? Check. Ripple tread platforms? CHECK. Doc Martens, you've done it again. Splurge-worthy block heel mules that'll ensure you're walking in both comfort *and* style from your first sip of latte in the morning to the moment you fall back onto your hotel bed in the evening. They have a supportive 2-inch cylinder heel, plush foam padding, and an array of stunning colors to choose from. Some sport shoes with a breathable insole, soft lining, and ultralight EVA soles that'll have you walking on air from one landmark to the next. Besides, look at that adorable stitching! Super pretty Toms canvas cutout sandals, because in a world where security and stability are rare a find, you should at least own shoes that give you *both*. This pair's thick straps and chunky heels will keep your feet in place, and will look oh-so-cute on you as you walk from that locals' favorite café to a stroll in the park. Sorel strappy sandals with secure straps and a signature molded EVA footbed that'll have you checking off the landmarks you've got planned for the day *without* the dreaded aches and pains. Plus, those groovy scalloped soles will give you some extra height *and* give you some extra style points. Mesh sneakers made with knitted mesh material to keep your feet dry and cool. Plus, its comfy insole is designed with a honeycomb patter to keep your feet balanced and strain-free. Reviewers have run 5ks, hiked for miles, and stood for up to 18 hours in these bad boys without feeling any pain! Sleek leather loafers that reviewers rave about for their ~buttery~ leather and non-slip soles. They are so classically simple, you have the freedom to dress them up with a cute dress for dinner or dress them down with your fave pair of jeans for a touristy day with the fam! Or very affordable pointy-toe loafers, which reviewers love because they don't require breaking in. And if you're in an unpredictable "hot, then cold, then hot again" climate, their closed-toe, open-top design makes them extra ideal. One reviewer even said they preferred these over their Gucci pair! Platform sandals that are basically what happens when comfy sandals and stylish heels have a baby. They've got cushioned insoles, adjustable ankle straps, and ridged soles that'll give you peak stability while you sightsee in ~style~. Adorable Swedish wooden clogs, which you'll fall *head over heels* for. But don't worry, you won't actually fall — this super lightweight pair gives you a little extra height, but also has a sturdy strap for that extra support! Beautiful Greek gladiator-inspired sandals that are made of 100% genuine leather and have a lightweight sole that'll allow you many more miles of strolling than your typical sandal.
Yahoo
09-05-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Ceasefire efforts in Ukraine moving in right direction, Finland says
By Gwladys Fouche OSLO (Reuters) - Efforts towards securing an agreed ceasefire in Ukraine are moving in the right direction, Finnish President Alexander Stubb said on Friday, shortly after speaking with Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and U.S. President Donald Trump. Finland's Stubb was speaking after holding two conversations in the last 24 hours with Zelenskiy and one with Trump, as fighting continued on the ground. "I feel carefully optimistic that at this particular moment in time, we're moving in the right direction, both militarily on the ground, as Zelenskiy has pointed out, and also in terms of the ceasefire and the peace process," Stubb told a press conference with his Norwegian counterpart and after a meeting of Northern European nations' leaders in Oslo. "We can't give a timetable now, but in an ideal world a Ukraine ceasefire would be declared over the weekend." Stubb and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere initiated the phone call with Trump late on Thursday, after speaking with Ukraine's Zelenskiy earlier in the day. They had again spoken to Zelenskiy on Friday, alongside leaders of other Nordic nations, Britain, the Baltics and the Dutch defence minister. Norway's Stoere appeared somewhat more cautious on progress. "It depends, as always, with what do we compare," Stoere told Reuters. "So compared to some weeks ago, I think there are some positive elements. I think the fact that the U.S. are still engaged, that they reconfirmed their engagement - if you read the wording of President Trump yesterday evening, I think we contributed to that." Russia has unilaterally declared a three-day ceasefire running from May 8-10 to coincide with the 80th anniversary of the end of World War Two. Trump on Thursday called for a 30-day unconditional ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, warning that Washington and its partners would impose further sanctions if the ceasefire was not respected. Ukraine has expressed readiness to accept the U.S. proposal. On the ground, both sides reported fighting. Ukrainian troops have made further attempts to breach the Russian border in the Kursk and Belgorod regions, according to the Russian Defence Ministry, while Ukraine's military said there had been 80 attacks by Russian troops along the front line on Friday. (This story has been corrected to clarify the participants in Friday's call, in paragraph 6)
Straits Times
09-05-2025
- Politics
- Straits Times
Ceasefire efforts in Ukraine moving in right direction, Finland says
A municipal worker stands in front of an apartment building heavily damaged a day before, by a Russian air strike, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in the frontline town of Kostiantynivka, in Donetsk region, Ukraine May 8, 2025. Iryna Rybakova/Press Service of the 93rd Kholodnyi Yar Separate Mechanized Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces/Handout via REUTERS Ceasefire efforts in Ukraine moving in right direction, Finland says OSLO - Efforts towards securing an agreed ceasefire in Ukraine are moving in the right direction, Finnish President Alexander Stubb said on Friday, shortly after speaking with Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and U.S. President Donald Trump. Finland's Stubb was speaking after holding two conversations in the last 24 hours with Zelenskiy and one with Trump, as fighting continued on the ground. "I feel carefully optimistic that at this particular moment in time, we're moving in the right direction, both militarily on the ground, as Zelenskiy has pointed out, and also in terms of the ceasefire and the peace process," Stubb told a press conference with his Norwegian counterpart and after a meeting of Northern European nations' leaders in Oslo. "We can't give a timetable now, but in an ideal world a Ukraine ceasefire would be declared over the weekend." Stubb and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere initiated the phone call with Trump late on Thursday, after speaking with Ukraine's Zelenskiy earlier in the day. They had again spoken to Zelenskiy on Friday, alongside the leaders of the Netherlands, Sweden, Denmark, Estonia, Latvia and Iceland.. Norway's Stoere appeared somewhat more cautious on progress. "It depends, as always, with what do we compare," Stoere told Reuters. "So compared to some weeks ago, I think there are some positive elements. I think the fact that the U.S. are still engaged, that they reconfirmed their engagement - if you read the wording of President Trump yesterday evening, I think we contributed to that." Russia has unilaterally declared a three-day ceasefire running from May 8-10 to coincide with the 80th anniversary of the end of World War Two. Trump on Thursday called for a 30-day unconditional ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, warning that Washington and its partners would impose further sanctions if the ceasefire was not respected. Ukraine has expressed readiness to accept the U.S. proposal. On the ground, both sides reported fighting. Ukrainian troops have made further attempts to breach the Russian border in the Kursk and Belgorod regions, according to the Russian Defence Ministry, while Ukraine's military said there had been 80 attacks by Russian troops along the front line on Friday. REUTERS Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.
Yahoo
06-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Average salaries across Europe: Which countries have the highest pay?
Average salaries differ widely across Europe. The cost of living does too. So, which countries offer the highest pay? And how do salaries compare when adjusted for purchasing power standards? There are various definitions of salary, wages, and earnings, each reflecting different aspects. The average full-time adjusted salary per employee is particularly useful. Eurostat's calculation is based on the average gross annual salary for a full-time job. Euronews converted these figures into monthly salaries by simply dividing by 12. In 2023, the average full-time adjusted monthly salary per employee ranged from €1,125 in Bulgaria to €6,755 in Luxembourg. The EU average was €3,155. Denmark is the only EU country besides Luxembourg with a salary over €5,000. It offers €5,634. Ireland (€4,890) and Belgium (€4,832) come very close to this threshold. Austria (€4,542), Germany (€4,250), and Finland (€4,033) also offer salaries above €4,000. Some 10 of 26 EU countries pay under €2,000 Among the 26 EU countries (excluding the Netherlands due to missing Eurostat data), 10 reported an average gross salary below €2,000. In four member states, the average salary was below €1,500. Poland stood just above this level at €1,505. In Romania, Greece, and Hungary, salaries were around €1,400s. Germany (€4,250) offers the highest average salary among the EU's four largest economies, followed by France (€3,555). Both Italy (€2,729) and Spain (€2,716) were below the EU average by more than €400. Eurostat data covers 26 EU countries. While not directly comparable due to methodological differences, OECD's the average annual wages per full-time equivalent employee includes more European countries. According to the OECD, the average salary in Switzerland was €8,104, making it the highest-paying country in Europe. Another European Free Trade Association (EFTA) country, Norway, offered an average salary of €5,027. The UK had an average salary of €4,220. With €4,629, the Netherlands ranks among the top-paying EU countries. Turkey, an EU candidate country, recorded the lowest average salary at €873, making it the only country below the €1,000 mark. The general trend shows that Western and Northern European countries lead in salary levels, while Southern and Eastern Europe tend to offer significantly lower nominal wages. Highest salaries in Europe by purchasing power The gap in average salaries narrows when measured in purchasing power standards (PPS), as this eliminates the effect of price level differences. PPS is an artificial currency unit, where one unit can theoretically purchase the same amount of goods and services in each country
