Scientific Advisory Board

Turkey's Justice Ministry announced on Feb. 18 that COVID-19 vaccines have begun being administered to detainees and convicts at penal institutions. 

Turkey's winter tourism hotspot, the eastern province of Kars, which is known for the famous Orient Express, is dealing with a tourism setback amid the coronavirus pandemic. The tourism income of the city has decreased by 80 percent.

The Albanian Culture Ministry plan to lease cultural monuments for up to 20 years has sparked a fierce debate about possible damage to historic sites.

Some heritage experts say the decision was not transparent, was decided without a proper debate and could result in damage to monuments, as has happened in past.