This module examines major policy challenges facing European countries. The overall objective is to enable students to discuss and understand the interconnectedness of these issues as well as how they might be addressed. The module is organised around a set of four, four-hour seminars that will allow an in-depth study of a particular issue and equip students with the tools to analyse the nature of the policy challenges facing European decision-makers. Assessment is done by virtue of continuous assessment in the form of class participation (15% based on a mixture of attendance, demonstration of knowledge of the readings, and general contribution to the learning environment) and a 3500-4000 word policy report (85%).
The first session is an introductory session that covers the purposes and organization of the module, while also providing an overview of useful theoretical tools to understand contemporary issues in European politics. After the five case-study seminars there will be a two-hour concluding session that will also cover tips and hints for writing the policy report.
The case studies cover:
Migration
Rule of Law
Climate and Energy
Covid
Ukraine
N.B. where possible I have tried to assign open access/publicly available readings
