Feel like the European Union is hard to grasp? Try taking a fresh (and slightly humorous) look at it with this special collection of articles.
What do Kazakhstan, Israel and the north-eastern corner of South America have in common? Some people count them as European. So why do other countries fail to make the grade? (31.08.2008)
The EU is not the first thing to come to mind when you think of something hilarious -- unless ridiculous policy decisions make you giggle. But as Europeans, laughing at fellow members could suggest a real togetherness. (30.08.2008)
What do you get if you take a potato, cover it with Turkish delight, douse it in passion-fruit juice and serve with a wedge of soft goat cheese? A sample of the EU's food designation system. (23.08.2008)
The problem with EU jargon is that you need both a political dictionary and a map to understand it. Here is a brief list of the EU's more obscure place-names and a explanation of the processes they refer to. (17.08.2008)
From Austria to Ukraine, more than a few countries have proudly anointed themselves the provider of lifeblood for the European continent. Will the real Heart of Europe please stand up? (09.08.2008)
A referendum for Serbs living in northern Kosovo asks them if they recognize the government of Kosovo in Pristina. 'No' is the likely outcome, which could worsen strained ties between Serbia and Kosovo.
Credit rating agency Moody's has downgraded six eurozone countries, including Italy and Spain. It also voiced concern about the economic outlook for Austria, Britain and France.
A radical Muslim cleric once dubbed "Osama bin Laden’s right-hand man in Europe" was released from prison on Monday. The freeing of Abu Qatada has stirred controversy over the role of the European Court of Human Rights.
Boeing and Indonesian carrier Lion Air have signed a multi-billion dollar contract which is billed as the largest order in the history of commercial aviation. First deliveries will be made in 2017.
German chemical giant BASF has announced it has taken over US-based Ovonic Battery Company - the global leader in nickel-metal hydride battery technology. BASF hopes to boost its electric car development.
The OECD has warned Germany that its economy might fall back unless it speeds up reforms. A shortage of skilled labor, an ageing population and high social costs all need urgent fixes.
The German chancellor has pledged European Union sanctions against the Syrian regime. In a meeting with the head of the Arab League in Berlin, Angela Merkel praised the Arab group for its "firm stance" on Syria.
For years, neo-Nazis have marched on the anniversary of the 1945 Dresden air raid. In 2011, tension with counter-demonstrators escalated into clashes. But this year, the city seemed to have learned from past mistakes.
Thousands commemorated the bombing of Dresden and spoke against far-right extremism on Monday, the anniversary of the Allied air assault that devastated the eastern city. Police escorted a march of up to 1,600 neo-Nazis.