This course counts as a POL and GEO track finisher.

The objectives of this course are threefold-fold. First, it explores ongoing European integration in the light of the existing diversities and disparities within Europe and addresses questions pertaining to territories and borders, communities and differences, security and threat. In this context the course emphasizes topics such as labor mobility, immigration, population issues, social cohesion and external relations.  Second, the course investigates the role EU policies have played in the economic, political, and cultural transformation of contemporary Europe and its immediate neighbourhood.  Here, the course focuses in particular on changes at the regional but also country level.  Third, the course distinguishes between local, national and global pressures and its impact on the direction and speed of the European integration process.  For example, it analyzes how national or regional interests but also ideas about what Europe is or who is a European influence political debates and policy-making.

 

Format
The course meets for twice a week for lectures, presentations and discussions.  Students prepare to participate actively in class by completing assigned readings . They prepare and present individual and group assignments. There is also a mid-term and a final exam.