The European Union is unique, quite unlike any political organisation seen at any time in history, or in any other part of the world.

This course is split into two halves. In the first, we will explore how and why the EU came into being, as well as how it works today, and examine its relations with the rest of the world. The second half opens up some of the contemporary themes and most urgent debates concerning the EU: does it suffer a democratic deficit? What are the causes and consequences of the rise in populism? What does national sovereignty mean in today’s globalised world?

Anyone interested in the nature of power and politics in Europe in the twenty-first century will find this course relevant and compelling. Classes will be discussion-based, with the aim of educating and engaging students through thought-provoking questions. Course content and assessment are tailored to developing real-world skills applicable to work in the fields of politics, policy, campaigning, or public affairs / governmental relations.