While Turkey remains uneasy even 100 days after the arrest of the mayor of Istanbul, the weather here is at least calming down. But not everyone is happy about it. You can find out the reasons for this at the end of our newsletter.
With these five topics from Germany and the world, you are well informed for your Thursday.
This is what happened: The federal government will not reduce the electricity tax for private households for the time being. The leaders of the CDU/CSU and SPD failed to reach an agreement on this point in the coalition committee.
That's why it's important: One of the coalition's major promises was to make energy more affordable. The fact that the electricity tax will not be reduced for everyone—contrary to what was announced in the coalition agreement—could massively damage confidence in the CDU-SPD government.
Here's what's next: According to the federal government, relief for consumers will follow as soon as "financial leeway exists." This means that this has been postponed indefinitely.
This is what happened: For weeks, politicians from the largest opposition party, the CHP, have been arrested in Turkey – including Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu (54), who has now been in prison for 100 days. Yesterday, tens of thousands of Turkish people again took to the streets to demand the resignation of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan (71).
Background: Imamoğlu and other CHP politicians are accused of corruption and supporting terrorism, among other things. However, many citizens view the arrests as a political witch hunt against the opposition leader.
Here's what's next: The political situation in Turkey remains tense. The CHP is also struggling with internal party conflicts, and President Erdoğan may seek early elections to maintain his grip on power.
This is what it's about: Defense Minister Boris Pistorius (65, SPD) is partially reorganizing his ministry's military leadership. He is replacing Army Inspector General Alfons Mais (63) with Christian Freuding (53) and Deputy Inspector General Andreas Hoppe (60) with Nicole Schilling (51), who, as a woman, is taking on an important role in a male-dominated environment.
Background: Pistorius is considered someone who values loyalty immensely. Mais has frequently made uncomfortable statements and indirectly criticized the Defense Minister. Schilling's appointment as Deputy Inspector General is, in turn, related to Hoppe's personal turmoil.
Here's how it continues: The personnel decisions are intended to bring a breath of fresh air into the Army's projects.
This is what happened: 20 years ago, podcasts became accessible to the masses – thanks to an update to Apple's iTunes music software. Today, these audio formats are firmly established in media consumption.
That's why it's important: Anyone who runs a successful podcast has influence. Audio shows are particularly attractive to the advertising industry because of their proximity to the audience. US President Donald Trump (79) also relied on podcasts during his election campaign to reach the young target audience.
Here's what's next: The industry is currently facing another upheaval: Video podcasts are booming, and at the same time, usage of the YouTube platform on television is increasing. With this development, video podcasts could become serious competition to television talk shows.
What it's all about: After the extreme heat, milder temperatures are now returning. This should be especially pleasing for those who generally prefer cooler temperatures. For others, however, it just can't get enough of the warmth.
Background: Every person has an individual comfort temperature. This depends on more than 60 factors, says bio- and environmental meteorologist Andreas Matzarakis. These include age, stress, and general health.
Here's how it goes: Training yourself to a new comfortable temperature only works to a limited extent. It's better to prepare your body for temperature fluctuations in general.
Have a good Thursday. See you tomorrow,
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