European Politics and Economy

This course offers students an introduction to the political and economic landscape of Europe. Central to the course is the European Union (EU), a economic and political partnership between 27 democratic European countries with almost 500 million citizens, which has become a major player in global politics and economy. Students will be introduced to the history, institutional structures, current aims, and future challenges of the European Union. The course will also analyse how the development of a single market through a standardised system of laws and the adoption of a single currency by 15 member states, facilitates a European economy that now represents almost a third of the total economic output of the world.

Students will discuss the historical background of the EU, which originated from a long process of political and economic integration that started after the Second World War and culminated in the formation of the EU by the Treaty of Maastricht in 1993. Lectures will discuss the various stages of integration, will evaluate the role of European leaders and will also examine euroscepticism and the resistance to the European project which resulted in the French and Dutch refusal to ratify the European Constitution. Other issues are the future expansion of the EU, transatlantic relations, and the development of a shared foreign policy and development aid.

Students will also discuss the system of governance within the European Union by the European Parliament (representing the people of Europe); the Council of the European Union (representing national governments); and the European Commission (representing the common EU interest). But they will also learn about the role and function of the various other European institutions such as the European Court of Justice and the European Central Bank.

Other lectures will analyze regional and cultural diversity within Europe, discuss the position of various countries and regions within the larger European family, or look at the role of Europe in the world.

The main venue for the course is Utrecht. The programme includes an excursion to Brussels, including a visit to the European Parliament and the NATO headquarters.

You will experience an intensive two-week programme with lectures and seminar groups. Together with other students you are expected to work on group presentations and assignments.

» Download the day-to-day programme (PDF)