The above, based on 2017 GDP per capita data, uses East Germany, long considered a benchmark for post-socialist economic recovery, as a reference point, set at approximately €30,300 per person. Regions shown in red fall below that threshold.

Following reunification in 1990, East Germany inherited outdated infrastructure , lower productivity, and weaker industrial capacity. Since then, the German government has invested more than €2 trillion in reconstruction, subsidies, and regional development.

While income gaps between eastern and western Germany persist, East Germany’s GDP per capita now exceeds that of many EU regions.

According to Eurostat, several regions in Southern Italy, Spain, Portugal, Greece, Eastern Europe , and the Balkans continue to trail behind eastern German states in output per person.

The map underscores long-standing structural challenges. Many red-marked regions are affected by low industrial diversification, weaker transport links, ageing populations, and chronic underinvestment.

In Southern Europe, the aftershocks of the 2008 financial crisis and the eurozone debt crisis slowed recovery for more than a decade. In Eastern Europe and the Balkans, the legacy of post-socialist transition and limited capital inflows continues to constrain growth.

The European Commission has repeatedly acknowledged that regional inequality within the EU remains high, even as national averages improve. Wealth tends to concentrate in capital cities and export-driven regions, leaving rural and peripheral areas behind.

New support has been announced for rugby development across Samoa, Fiji and Tonga, highlighting the continued importance of the sport to Pacific identity, youth engagement and regional cooperation. The assistance is aimed at strengthening grassroots structures as well as elite pathways, ensuring that rugby continues to provide opportunities for social development, international representation and economic activity across the three island nations.

Veteran journalist raises concerns over Samoa’s proposed media rules

A senior journalist in Samoa, Autagavaia Tipi Autagavaia, has publicly questioned proposed changes to media regulations, warning that they could have implications for press freedom and journalistic independence. The concerns centre on how the new rules may affect reporting standards, oversight and the ability of the media to operate without undue restriction, sparking broader debate about transparency and democratic safeguards in the country.

Prime Minister calls for human rights to be part of everyday life in Samoa

Samoa’s Prime Minister La’aulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Fosi Schmidt has urged citizens and institutions to treat human rights not as abstract principles but as values embedded in daily life. The call emphasises respect, inclusion and accountability across society, reinforcing the government’s commitment to aligning national development with fundamental rights and social justice.

Samoa releases its updated national climate plan

The Samoan government has released an updated national climate plan, outlining revised strategies to address climate change, resilience and sustainability. The plan reflects the country’s vulnerability to rising sea levels and extreme weather, while setting out policy priorities for adaptation, emissions reduction and international climate cooperation.

Prime minister meets with doctors and nurses on health sector priorities

The Prime Minister La’aulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Fosi Schmidt has held discussions with doctors and nurses to address key issues within Samoa’s health sector. The meeting focused on workforce conditions, service delivery and strengthening healthcare systems, underscoring the government’s focus on improving public health outcomes and supporting frontline medical professionals.