Europe's checkered COVID restrictions

Social distancing is no longer an obligation in the Netherlands from next week. But the government will begin mandating COVID-19 health passes to get into venues like bars, restaurants, and theaters, Prime Minister Mark Rutte said Tuesday. For those who aren't vaccinated, proof of having recovered from COVID or a negative test taken within 24 hours is required for entry.

With a high vaccination rate, Denmark became one of the first EU countries to return to social life without COVID restrictions. Since last Friday, Danes could enter venues like nightclubs without having to provide proof of vaccination. The Danish government announced that it no longer considers COVID a "socially critical" disease. More than 80% of adults and teens have had two jabs.

Sweden, the country that never imposed stringent lockdowns throughout the pandemic, is opting to lift all restrictions in a couple of weeks. More than 70% of Swedes aged 16 and above have been fully vaccinated. The country has maintained a relatively low death rate, despite the mounting infection rates largely due to the rapid spread of the more contagious delta variant.

With about 62% of the population fully vaccinated, Germany's rollout now lags behind those of some of its European neighbors. This is why the government has kicked off a 'COVID vaccination action week.' Mobile vaccination centers are being set up in public places to facilitate citizens' access to the vaccine.

Dealing with widespread vaccine hesitancy, France mandated in early August a vaccine pass for entering a wide variety of public places — prompting several rounds of protests. Last Saturday, around 12,000 citizens marched the streets of Paris against the pass. Some unions and civil society organizations supported the protests, expressing concerns over the violation of individual freedom.

Facing rising infection rates and hospitalizations, Austria is tightening the restrictions that were previously eased. According to a new regulation that came into effect Wednesday, antigen tests will only be valid for 24 hours all over Austria. Some travel restrictions, especially for travelers from the US, have returned.

In Bulgaria, where only an estimated 20% of people are fully vaccinated, the pandemic seems far from over. The nation is facing a new, rapid surge of infections due to the delta variant. In response, the authorities have reimposed a night curfew, shuttered nightclubs once again, and reduced the capacities of cinemas, restaurants and even outdoor events.