Erstellt am: 20. 3. 2013 - 14:59 Uhr

Cyprus looks to Moscow

Reality Check: Cyprus euro crisis, water as a human right, allegations of chemical weapons use in Syria, a new whistleblowing website in Austria, the film "Void" based on Bakary J case.

The drama in Cyprus continues. The parliament last night unanimously rejected the international bailout deal negotiated with the EU and IMF.

It is a very curious situation. The banks are still closed, and no one seems to know what to do next.

The most proactive person appears to be Cyprus' Finance Minister, Michalis Sarris, who is in Moscow looking for a Russian based solution.

EPA

Caprus' Finance Minister, Michalis Sarris, meets reporters after his meeting in Moscow. No announcement was made, but that's not to say nothing was areed.

Russia has huge amounts of money invested in Cypriot banks, not to mention close political and economic ties. While the talks ended with no official deal, analyst, Emmanuel Sigalas, says it is possible that a secret arrangement may be in the making.

EU citizens' initiative for water

A Europeans Citizens' Initiative is underway demanding the Commission recognise the provision of water and sanitation as essential public services - but the countries facing austerity measures want to privatise water to raise money. Thomas Kattnig from the municipal workers's union looks at the issues at stake.

Chemical weapons in Syria

With allegations of chemical weapons being used in the civil war in Syria, Shashank Joshi discuss significance of these accusations and the likely explanations.

Government whistleblowing site

The Austrian government launches a new whistleblower site.
Paul Pant reports on what it offers and what is might achieve.

Void

A new film drama based on the notorious case of Bakary J. - the man beaten and tortured by Austrian police.

FM4 Reality Check

Monday to Friday from 12.00 to 14.00, and after the show via Podcast or fm4.orf.at/realitycheck.