The European Union
Challenges, Crises, and Solution Approaches
Course Overview
- Focus: Introduction to the EU's political and institutional landscape, governance structure, challenges, and innovations.
- Content:
- Evolution of the EU: From the European Coal and Steel Community to a 27-member union.
- Key EU institutions: European Commission, European Parliament, the European Council, and Council of the EU.
- Challenges: Democratic legitimacy, migration, security, and economic governance.
- Innovations: New institutions like the European Stability Mechanism and emerging policy areas like digital governance.
Learning Outcomes
- Gain a solid understanding of EU governance, its challenges, and future-shaping innovations.
- Engage in critical thinking, discussions, and collaborative projects.
- Strengthen soft skills, rhetoric, and participate in a beginner-level German language course.
Participation & Credits
- Expectations: Active class participation, completion of readings, assignments, and group projects.
- Credits: Earn 6 ECTS for the EU Studies + 6 ECTS for German class attendance.
Target Group
- Open to students of all levels with an interest in EU studies, regardless of prior background.
