The English Channel separates southern England from northern France. Ferries transport freight and passengers between Britain and mainland Europe around the clock. They depend on trade between Britain and the EU.

The possibility of Brexit has triggered heated debates among Britain's business community. Some firms value trade with other EU members, while others are annoyed by inflexible regulations and want out as soon as possible.

Report by Birgit Maaß

Soccer has been more than just a sport or a hobby for a long time now. It's also a huge economic factor. We talk to Guido Schafmeister of Bayreuth University's Sport Management Academy about the business of football.

When the Euro 2016 kicks off on June 10th, it'll be party time - not only for the fans but for business. Soccer is of course big business. Every player tries to boost his market value. Clubs, bookies, beer brewers and many others all vie for a cut.

Soccer has been more than just a sport or a hobby for a long time now. It's also a huge economic factor. We talk to Guido Schafmeister of Bayreuth University's Sport Management Academy about the business of football.

The French CGT labor union has called a strike, paralyzing large parts of the economy. Gasoline is scarce, trains and planes are grounded. Saarland's filling stations are making a killing as French drivers cross the border to fill up.

Germany's a leading soccer nation and current world champion. Its players are in high demand and its system is widely admired. It's all the product of the German Football Association's support for young players.

The Gotthard Tunnel is a source of pride for Switzerland. For the Uri region its construction meant jobs and an increase in tax revenue. After its opening, many locals have further hopes from the tunnel – from environmental protection to tourism.

Nearly 706 German companies have joined a business initiative seeking to integrate refugees into the labor market. It's giving practical tips and a clear signal to the rest of the country. DW talks to Sofie Geisel, the initiative's managing director.

Wroclaw cultivates a young and trendy image, but Poland has been changing. Being international no longer suits many Poles, and many multi-national corporations with offices here, such as Google, IBM and Credit Suisse, are starting to feel it.