This course explores the political history of European integration from (before) the end of World War II to the present day, focusing on both the European context (including the political and policy dynamics specific to Member States, their leaders, and civil society) and global geopolitics (such as relations with major powers like the USA and the Soviet Union, later Russia, as well as international organizations, emerging powers, and developing countries). The course examines the origins and evolution of the main European Union (EU) institutions and policies, while considering Member States’ capabilities and strategic interests in areas like peace and stability, growth, cohesion, rule of law, power, and security. It also highlights the distinctive nature of EU political integration and its inherent tensions, such as those between unity and diversity, supranationalism and intergovernmentalism, deepening and widening processes, soft and hard power, and values and interests.
- Teacher: Defacqz Samuel